1996 Ford Windstar

Introduction:

The 1996 Ford Windstar is a minivan offered with a choice of two engine and two transmission options. The 3.0L V6 engine produces 155 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.8L V6 generates 200 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. Owners appreciate the Windstar’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and versatility. However, it has also received criticism for its lackluster performance, poor fuel economy, and reliability issues.

Engine

3.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, rough idling, poor engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, rough idling, poor acceleration
  • Solution: Replace EGR valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, poor acceleration, rough idling
  • Solution: Replace TPS
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) Valve Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor performance at low speeds, reduced fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace IMRC valve assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure to shift gears, delayed shifts, slipping transmission
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, overheating, transmission slipping
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal feels spongy
  • Solution: Replace clutch master cylinder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Lower Ball Joint Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises when turning or going over bumps
  • Solution: Replace lower ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Front Sway Bar End Link Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking noises when driving over bumps or turning
  • Solution: Replace sway bar end links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim headlights, dashboard warning light
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking noise when turning the key
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Exterior

• Door Handle Corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles become stiff, difficult to open, or break off
  • Solution: Lubricate or replace door handles
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard, especially in hot climates
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
• Seat Switch Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats fail to adjust or move sporadically
  • Solution: Replace seat switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Summary:

The 1996 Ford Windstar has a number of issues that can be costly to repair. Issues with the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system are common. Owners should be prepared for potential repair expenses and consider extended warranties or service contracts to mitigate the financial risk.