2003 Ford Windstar

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 1,510 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the brakes. It has been recalled 9 times.

Not among the Ford Windstar years to avoid. Which Ford Windstar years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
98,070 milesMedian miles at failure

1,280 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.

Most common 2003 Ford Windstar problems

574 of the 1,510 complaints (38%) are about the brakes.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Service Brakes · brakes270
401
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · brakes176
030
Electrical System156
171
Suspension155
130
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission86
112
Power Train · transmission86
301
Service Brakes, Electric · brakes60
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration41
130
Suspension › Rear41
110
Structure › Body · body and frame39
200

2003 Ford Windstar brakes problems

38% of all complaints

574 of the 1,510 complaints are about the brakes. This is what owners describe:

  • sets off warning lights on the dash33% · 188
  • leaks oil or fluid6% · 35

Share of the 574 brakes complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
90,000 mi
median of 496 reports
Peak year of filing
2014
91 brakes complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
5 · 4 · 1
in these complaints
Recalls on the brakes
None
“I have the familiar 9 c codes for the ABS control module with the cold solder joints that effects the ABS function. There is a 23 page 2carspro.com forum with individuals sharing this exact same issue defect on their windstar vehicles. The warning lights illuminate under normal driving conditions.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 9, 2018 at 85,575 miles
“Abs and brake warning lights come on simutainously and the ABS system fails to operate.. This is an intermittant problem.. When the vehicle is turned off, the system resets. It happens when the vehicle is under motion and can be under any conditions...”
Owner complaint, filed Jul 7, 2017 at 145,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2003: 23 complaints, 2 about the brakes'032004: 48 complaints, 1 about the brakes2005: 24 complaints, 3 about the brakes'052006: 19 complaints, 3 about the brakes2007: 40 complaints, 11 about the brakes'072008: 115 complaints, 67 about the brakes2009: 131 complaints, 73 about the brakes'092010: 232 complaints, 85 about the brakes2011: 171 complaints, 41 about the brakes'112012: 162 complaints, 85 about the brakes2013: 121 complaints, 63 about the brakes'132014: 158 complaints, 91 about the brakes2015: 81 complaints, 22 about the brakes'152016: 57 complaints, 12 about the brakes2017: 42 complaints, 8 about the brakes'172018: 23 complaints, 4 about the brakes2019: 26 complaints, 2 about the brakes'192020: 9 complaints, 0 about the brakes2021: 10 complaints, 0 about the brakes'212022: 6 complaints, 1 about the brakes2023: 4 complaints, 0 about the brakes'232024: 4 complaints, 0 about the brakes2025: 2 complaints, 0 about the brakes'252026: 2 complaints, 0 about the brakesRecall 03V459000 (seats)Recall 06E056000 (fuel system)Recall 09V399000 (throttle and acceleration)Recall 10V385000 (suspension)Recall 11V030000 (body and frame)Recall 12V193000 (transmission)Recall 12V194000 (suspension)Recall 15V608000 (suspension)NHTSA investigation EA10007NHTSA investigation EA08021NHTSA investigation PE08035
All complaintsAbout the brakesRecall (red: the brakes)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2003 Windstar peaked in 2010, with 232 filed that year. No recall on file covers the brakes, the subject of 38% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 2 so far.

9 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-powered Axle Assembly15V608000
Filed Sep 29, 2015283,413 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles manufactured September 2, 1997, to July 3, 2003. The affected vehicles were previously remedied to safeguard against the rear axle cracking from corrosion, however, the remedy brackets may have been misinstalled. The incorrect bracket installations may limit the effectiveness of the service repair for NHTSA recalls 10V-385, 12V-193, and 12V-195.

Risk. If the brackets were not installed properly, the rear axle may fracture, affecting the vehicle handling and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brackets to verify their proper installation. If a bracket is found to have been misinstalled, the rear axle will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The began on October 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S27.

Power Train › Axle Assembly12V193000
Filed May 3, 201227,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1998-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 1997, THROUGH JULY 3, 2003, AND CURRENTLY REGISTERED OR ORIGINALLY SOLD IN VIRGINIA. OVER TIME, CORROSION CAN WEAKEN THE REAR AXLE MAKING IT SUSCEPTIBLE TO TORSIONAL STRESS. CORROSION AND STRESS CAN LEAD TO CRACKS WHICH, IF UNDETECTED, CAN INCREASE AND RESULT IN A COMPLETE FRACTURE OF THE AXLE.

Risk. A FRACTURED AXLE CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND INSTALL REAR AXLE REINFORCEMENT BRACKETS, OR REPLACE THE AXLES, AS NECESSARY. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 19, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

Suspension › Front › Control Arm12V194000
Filed May 3, 201223,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATE OF VIRGINIA. CORROSION-RELATED FRACTURES OF THE FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM REAR ATTACHING BRACKETS AND BODY MOUNT ATTACHMENTS MAY OCCUR.

Risk. A SEPARATION OF A FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM REAR ATTACHING BRACKET MAY RESULT IN A LOWER CONTROL ARM SEPARATION. A SEPARATION OF BOTH FRONT SUBFRAME REAR BODY MOUNTS MAY RESULT IN SEPARATION OF THE STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT. EITHER CONDITION COULD RESULT IN SIGNIFICANT LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT BOTH FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM REAR ATTACHING BRACKETS AND BOTH BODY MOUNT ATTACHMENTS AT THE REAR OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME AND MAKE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 18, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-powered Axle Assembly12V195000
Filed May 3, 20129,192 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1998-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 1997, THROUGH JULY 3, 2003, REGISTERED IN PUERTO RICO. DUE TO INCREASED STRESSES CAUSED BY HIGH CYCLES OF TORSIONAL LOADING, SPECIFIC TO THIS MARKET, THE REAR AXLE CAN CRACK.

Risk. A FRACTURED AXLE MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT BRACKET ON THE REAR AXLE OR REPLACE THE AXLES, AS NECESSARY. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 1, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332.

Structure › Frame and Members › Underbody Shields11V030000
Filed Jan 26, 2011425,288 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, UTAH, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, AND WISCONSIN. A SEPARATION OF A FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM REAR ATTACHING BRACKET MAY RESULT IN A LOWER CONTROL ARM SEPARATION. A SEPARATION OF BOTH FRONT SUBFRAME REAR BODY MOUNTS MAY RESULT IN SEPARATION OF THE STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT.

Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN REDUCED STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT BOTH FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM REAR ATTACHING BRACKETS, AND BOTH BODY MOUNT ATTACHMENTS AT THE REAR OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME, AND MAKE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS FREE OF CHARGE. IF REPAIRS CANNOT BE MADE TO A VEHICLE, FORD WILL OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE VEHICLE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE FEBRUARY 21, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-powered Axle Assembly10V385000
Filed Aug 26, 2010492,650 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1998-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 1997 THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, 2003 AND CURRENTLY REGISTERED OR ORIGINALLY SOLD IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, AND WISCONSIN. AFTER MANY YEARS OF VEHICLE SERVICE IN THESE AREAS, CORROSION CAN WEAKEN THE REAR AXLE, MAKING IT SUSCEPTIBLE TO TORSIONAL STRESS. CORROSION AND STRESS CAN LEAD TO CRACKS WHICH IF UNDETECTED CAN PROPAGATE AND RESULT IN A COMPLETE FRACTURE OF THE AXLE.

Risk. A FRACTURED AXLE CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. AS PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE, DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND IF NECESSARY INSTALL THE REAR AXLE REINFORCEMENT BRACKETS FREE OF CHARGE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 20, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.

Vehicle Speed Control09V399000
Filed Oct 13, 20094,500,000 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. FORD IS RECALLING MODEL YEARS 1995-2003 WINDSTAR, 2000-2003 EXCURSION DIESEL, 1993-1997 AND 1999-2003 F-250 SD THROUGH F-550 SD DIESEL, 1992-2003 E-150 THROUGH E-550, 1995-2002 EXPLORER, 1997 AND 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER, 1995-1997 AND 2001-2003 RANGER, AND 1994 F53 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH (SCDS). THE SCDS MAY LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.

Risk. A VEHICLE FIRE COULD OCCUR WITH OR WITHOUT THE ENGINE RUNNING.

Remedy. FORD WILL NOTIFY OWNERS THAT DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS IN LINE WITH THE SCDS. ON 1999-2003 WINDSTAR VEHICLES WITH A LEAKING SCDS, DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT THE ABS CONTROL MODULE CONNECTOR AND REPAIR AS NECESSARY. REPAIRS WILL BE COMPLETED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 27, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-888-222-2751.

Fuel System, Gasoline06E056000
Filed Jun 13, 200658,640 vehiclesUfi Filters USA

Defect. CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE CONNECTION MAY BELIEVE THAT THE QUICK CONNECTOR IS FULLY ATTACHED.

Risk. FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. UFI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT UFI FILTERS USA AT 800-230-5876.

Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly03V459000
Filed Nov 6, 2003257,119 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. CERTAIN MINIVANS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEM." DURING TESTING, A THIRD ROW BENCH FLOOR-TO-SEAT LATCH RELEASED BEFORE THE STRENGTH REQUIREMENT WAS MET. IDENTICAL LATCHES ARE USED IN THE SECOND ROW OF SEATS.

Risk. IF THE LATCHES ON TH4E SECOND OR THIRD ROW SEATS OF THE VEHICLE RELEASE IN A CRASH, THE POTENTIAL FOR OCCUPANT INJURY IS INCREASED.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAT-TO-FLOOR LATCHES ON THE SECOND AND THIRD ROW OF SEATS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 21, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.

All 9 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 6 name the 2003 Windstar.

Front Subframe Corrosion FailuresEngineering analysis EA10007Closed
Opened Dec 20, 2010Closed Mar 17, 2011Led to recall 11V030000body and frame

In a January 26, 2011 Defect Information Report, Ford Motor Company (Ford) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that it will conduct a safety recall to address corrosion related fractures in the front lower control arm rear attaching brackets and body mount attachments at the rear of the front subframe in approximately 425,288 model year (MY) 1999 through 2003 Ford Windstar vehicles manufactured from April 1998 to July 2003 and either sold or currently registered in the following high corrosion (Salt-Belt) states:Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, …

Rear Axle Fracture Recall ScopeDefect petition DP10005Closed
Opened Dec 15, 2010Closed Dec 21, 2010suspension

On November 5, 2010, NHTSA received a Defect Petition from the owner of a MY 2003 Ford Windstar vehicle registered in the state of New York requesting that the scope of Recall 10V-385 be expanded to include additional MY 2003 vehicles experiencing the defect condition.The petitioner initially filed a complaint (VOQ 10345125) with ODI on July 25, 2010, two days after the axle failure.The complaint was subsequently amended and the petition filed after the consumer was denied compensation and repair under the recall.ODI has identified a total of five complaints from owners of MY 2003 Ford …

Front Subframe Corrosion FailuresPreliminary evaluation PE10026Closed
Opened Jul 20, 2010Closed Dec 20, 2010Led to recall 11V030000body and frame

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has identified 346 complaints to ODI and Ford alleging fracture, cracking and or excessive corrosion of the front subframes in model year (MY) 1999 through 2003 Ford Windstar vehicles.Approximately 97 percent of these complaints (334) involve vehicles that have been operated in Salt Belt states, which make up approximately 60 percent of the subject vehicle sales in the United States.The front subframe, sometimes referred to as the engine cradle, is a structural component of the Windstar vehicles that carries the engine, transaxle, steering rack and …

Rear Axle CrackingPreliminary evaluation PE10016Closed
Opened May 13, 2010Closed Sep 22, 2010Led to recall 10V385000suspension

In a letter dated August 26, 2010, Ford Motor Company (Ford) submitted a Defect Information Report notifying NHTSA that it will conduct a safety recall (NHTSA Recall No. 10V-385) to address a rear axle defect in model year (MY) 1998 through 2003 Ford Windstar vehicles built at the Oakville assembly plant from September 1, 1997 through February 28, 2003 and either sold or currently registered in high corrosion (Salt-Belt) states where the use of salt and other corrosive chemicals may be used to treat snow/ice covered roads.The following states are included in Ford's recall:Connecticut, …

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRESEngineering analysis EA08021Closed
Opened Sep 17, 2008Closed Oct 14, 2009Led to recall 09V399000electrical system

Ea08-021 is closed with FORD's actions in recall 09v-399 recalling approximately 4.5 million vehicles equipped with texas instruments speed control deactivation switches (scds).with this recall FORD has now recalled all of the approximate 16 million FORD model vehicles that were manufactured from my 1992 through 2003 with a texas instruments scds.NHTSA will continue to monitor the recalled vehicles to ensure remedies installed by FORD tomitigate the potential for scds related fires are effective.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see …

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRESPreliminary evaluation PE08035Closed
Opened May 13, 2008Closed Sep 17, 2008electrical system

Odi has received 134 consumer complaints, 285 manufacturer complaints, and 137 manufacturer warranty claims alleging incidents of engine compartment fire in model year (my) 1995 thru 2003 FORD windstar vehicles.two of the odi complaints allege the fires caused structural damage to the complainant's home.of the 134 odi complaints, 36 allege the fire occurred while the vehicle was parked, 72 allege the fire occurred while the vehicle was running and 26 of the complaints do not specify if the vehicle was running or not.further review of the odi complaints shows that 72 allege that the speed …

Technical service bulletins

68 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2003 Windstar. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

electrical system 14body and frame 10suspension 8visibility 6engine 6transmission 5seats 3brakes 3
17016Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 1, 2003brakes

FRONT CALIPER SEEPAGE IN EXTREME COLD TEMPERATURES. *TT

16987Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 1, 2003brakes

SLIGHT AMOUNT OF FLUID RESIDUE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE REAR WHEEL CYLINDER DUST BOOT ON VEHICLES WITH REAR DRUM BRAKES. *TT

16919Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 1, 2003brakes

STABILITY ASSIST SYSTEMS (ADVANCETRAC) MAY NOT BE RECALIBRATED PROPERLY USING WDS. *TT

What owners reported

Newest filings
Structure
Filed Jul 27, 2026132,000 milesMN

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving approximately 10-20 MPH, the steering wheel was shaking abnormally. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V030000 (Structure). The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that after the recall repair was performed the procedure was that the dealer would inspect the vehicle and escalate the findings to the special support center. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that the warranty on the repair had expired. The failure mileage was approximately 132,000.

Suspension
Filed Apr 3, 2026237,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving over a railroad track at 40 MPH, the rear axle snapped. The wheel hub to the axle was barely connected. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number:15V608000 (SUSPENSION); however, the contact had not received the recall notification. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 237,000.

Suspension
Filed Jul 1, 2025160,263 milesNE

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while attempting to reverse, the contact heard a loud sound coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that steering wheel became difficult to turn. A local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was inspected, and the contact was informed that there was no recall related to the VIN for the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V194000 (SUSPENSION); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 160,263.

Structure
Filed Apr 8, 2025OH

The contact’s son owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V030000 (Structure). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the exhaust pipe was punctured. The contact was advised that the front subframe was severely corroded; however, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle would not be repaired due to the corrosion. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact parked the vehicle and the vehicle was no longer driven due to the safety concerns. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Suspension
Filed Dec 11, 2024135,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the passenger’s side rear wheel. The traction control warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that later while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear suspension and the contact almost lost control of the vehicle but was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway. The contact stated that upon a visual inspection there was excessive corrosion around the rear axle and the axle was detached. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the rear axle. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V608000 (Suspension); but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 135,000.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jul 5, 2024250,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the ABS and Brake warning lights remained illuminated. Additionally, there was smoke, and a burning odor coming from the engine compartment. The contact also stated that the ABS fluid had leaked from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that fluid had leaked from the Speed Control Deactivations Switch causing damage to the ABS Control Module connector. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V399000 (Vehicle Speed Control). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 250,000.

Suspension
Filed Jun 6, 2024160,000 milesMN

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal odor circulating inside the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated the vehicle started losing motive power, and he was able to pull the vehicle to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed a failure with the rear axle. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.

Suspension
Filed May 6, 2024207,000 milesNC

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving from the driveway, the front driver's side control arm detached from the vehicle. The vehicle made an abnormal scraping sound. While making a turn, an abnormal clicking noise was heard. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified about the failure. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension). The failure mileage was approximately 207,000.

Suspension
Filed Aug 7, 2023180,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving at 15 MPH, there was an abnormal rumbling sound coming from an undisclosed location of the vehicle. The contact veered off the roadway. The contact notified a tow truck company and inspected the vehicle and noticed that the rear axle was fractured. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact referenced the NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension). The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.

SteeringCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 15, 2023IN

The rear axle on my vehicle snapped while I was driving causing me to lose control and leave the roadway. I contacted Ford who told me there was a recall for the rear axle of my vehicle and that I would have no out of pocket expenses for the repairs and the towing of the vehicle to the service center. After they set up the towing I received a message saying I had to pay $381 for the towing before they would dispatch the tow truck. I called Ford customer service and they told me that now they can't find in their notes where they told me towing was covered. After asking to speak with a supervisor and being told they're not going to transfer me because they know their supervisor can't do anything more then what they can do I was placed on hold for an hour just to be told they can't find it in their notes and then I was hung up on. I shouldn't have to pay almost $400 to have my vehicle that just had a catastrophic failure causing me to wreck towed for servic after I was lied to about the towing being covered

Suspension
Filed Feb 17, 2023160,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the contact started losing control of the vehicle. The contact was able to pull over and had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic. The independent mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and stated that the vehicle was experiencing the failure listed in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V608000 (Suspension) and advised the contact to contact the manufacturer for assistance. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V608000 (Suspension). No further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 160,000.

Suspension
Filed Jan 4, 2023147,000 milesKS

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact had taken her vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the rear axle had cracked due to severe corrosion. The mechanic informed her that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The contact was also informed that the vehicle might be included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension). The dealer and manufacturer were contacted, and the contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000.

Structure
Filed Oct 27, 2022150,000 milesWI

The contact’s son owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while her son was driving 10 MPH and making a turn into a parking lot, the vehicle stopped as the rear tires collapsed inside the wheel well. The contact was able to park the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the rear axle had fractured. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they would cover the repair; however, the dealer informed the contact that they could not repair the vehicle as the subframe was severely corroded. The dealer also informed the contact that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V030000 (Structure) in 2011. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was towed back to the residence. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Suspension
Filed Oct 26, 2022136,000 milesMO

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle was wobbling. Once the contact arrived at her residence, her husband noticed that the rear of the subframe was fracture. The dealer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension). The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 136,000.

Power Train
Filed Oct 3, 2022MO

My family and I went to pull out of an entersection when the 03 Ford Windstar I purchased suddenly stopped pulling .almost getting rearended

Power Train › Automatic Transmission
Filed May 23, 2022TX

On May 23rd 2022 I was driving on interstate 45 the speed limit through where I was driving was 75 all of a sudden with no warning no engine light on my transmission stopped working and I could not break I was able to safely get over thank goodness but there is a recall on my transmission which almost killed me that needs to be replaced

Suspension
Filed May 13, 2022160,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while his wife was exiting the vehicle, she noticed that the rear driver’s side wheel was leaning in towards the frame of the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the axle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Jan 7, 2022CA

When driving my muffler broke loose and was dragging on the ground. My axel creaks when I stop or sit idle at a light. When several miles from home my ignition cylinder came out. I couldn't start or turn the ignition on nor operate the steering. I'm now afraid to drive my vehicle. Since acquiring it. I've put a lot of money into repairs. In addition to purchasing this vehicle, I've spent well over $2,000 in repairs. Once I learned of the recall and viewed the risks (Video) of the dangers I became grossly disturbed by what I am facing at the thought of driving. I have contacted 4 Ford Service Centers and none of them contacted back regarding fixing my 'recall'. I NEED HELP!! I have a disability and now I don't have transportation besides this car. How come no one is returning my calls? I am stranded at my home knowing that my safety is at risk. I would like to get my issue remedied with a $4,999.00 Reimbursement for this vehicle ASAP so I may invest in getting a safer one. Please give me a dealership address here in Los Angeles so I can have the vehicle towed there and be done with it. I no longer want a vehicle that I can not drive nor can get my 'recalls' remedied. Your attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

Suspension
Filed Sep 14, 202187,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that the ABS warning light and brake warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact then took the vehicle to a dealer where she was informed that the rear axle was severely corroded and at risk of fracturing. The dealer informed her of NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V385000 (Suspension) however, the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered no assistance. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000. The VIN was invalid.

Steering
Filed Aug 30, 2021WA

Driver was stalking a pedestrian.

Structure › Body
Filed Aug 20, 2021WV

The rear wheel well is corroded and the corrosion is into the structure that the seat belt is mounted to and it ruined the REM(rear electronic module) there is supposed to be a recall on it but all the ford garages say its been done but it hasn't and now I have no way to work or to take my kids anywhere and the van only has 96000 miles and we just bought it

Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-powered Axle Assembly
Filed Jul 21, 2021158,000 milesMO

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving at 20 mph, there was a loud noise heard then the vehicle collapsed. The contact steered the steering wheel to move the vehicle off the road and heard metal screeching coming from the ground. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and diagnosed that the rear axle had fractured into two parts. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact to take the vehicle to a dealer. The failure mileage was 158,000.

Suspension
Filed May 28, 202175,000 milesCO

The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to the dealer for routine maintenance, the contact noticed that the rear axle was severely corroded. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the mechanic failed to fix the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V608000 (Suspension) as a possible solution to the failure however, the VIN was not included. The contact was concerned for his safety while driving the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000. The VIN was not available.

Suspension
Filed Apr 19, 2021147,000 milesOH

I WAS DRIVING ON A CITY STREET GOING ABOUT 30 MILES AN HOUR THE VAN FILLED WITH SMOKE WHEN I CAME TO A STOP I LOOKED UNDER THE CAR AND THE BACK AXLE WAS BROKE I HAD IT TOWED TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID IT WOULD COST $3200 TO FIX IT THEY SAID IT DIDN'T FALL UNDER THE RECALL THEY HAD FOR THE BACK AXLE BREAKING

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 15, 2021135,000 milesOH

THE REAR AXLE OR METAL BRACKETS ON MY VEHICLE SNAPPED WHILE I BRAKED FOR ANOTHER VEHICLE APPROACHING. I HAD THE METAL ON MY AXLE WELDED TO FIX THE PROBLEM TEMPORARILY THAT IS BECAUSE IT IS CURRENTLY BROKE AGAIN. I BELIEVE THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS SPECIFIC PROBLEM.

Suspension
Filed Mar 15, 2021100,000 milesTX

MY BACK AXLE ITS RUSTED AND ITS CRACKED.THE MECHANIC MENTION THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS IF IT BREAKS WHILE DRIVING.WHILE THE MECHANIC REPLACED MY FUEL PUMP HE NOTICED THIS ISSUE.

Power Train
Filed Jan 25, 2021172,000 milesTN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND WITH THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TORQUE CONVERTOR, FILTER, AND THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 172,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Jan 12, 2021130,000 milesTX

I OWN A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR LX. IT WAS AT THE MECHANIC FOR SOME REPAIRS AND HE POINTED OUT THE ISSUE WITH MY REAR AXLE BEING CRACKED AND CORRODED. WHICH ITS VERY DANGEROUS TO KEEP DRIVING LIKE THIS. *LN*JB

Power Train
Filed Dec 18, 20201,073,200 milesCT

PURCHASED USED 2003 FORD WINDSTAR..IN 2005 ..WITH 30,000 MILES ..NOW HAS 107,000 MILES...AROUND TOWN DRIVING...GOT RECALLS..BROUGHT VEHICLE IN TO DEALER FOR REAR AXLE FIX.INSPECTED TWICE..AFTER ......BRACKETS INSTALLED TO STABILIZE AXLE WERE INITIALLY INSTALLED TOLD IF AXLE WAS BAD , FORD WOULD REPLACE..DID NOT REPLACE. BENTELER AXLE WHOLE PROBLEM FROM START.WEAK METAL SUBJECT TO FATIGUE .BRACKETS WERE A BAND-AID.ACTUALLY MAY HAVE MADE PROBLEM WORSE.......AXLE SNAPPED WHILE DRIVING AST LOW SPEED..AND WHILE TURNING........

Suspension
Filed Sep 16, 2020200,000 milesMI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, AN ABNORMAL SOUND WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO TAYLOR FORD LOCATED AT 13500 TELEGRAPH RD, TAYLOR, MI 48180, TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SUSPENSION BRACKET WAS RUSTED AND FRACTURED FROM THE AXLE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V608000 (SUSPENSION). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE BUT, PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 200,000.

Suspension
Filed Aug 10, 2020185,000 milesCA

I CONTACTED THIS AGENCY PREVIOUSLY REGARDING THE FAILURE OF THE REAR AXLE IN DETAIL. THIS NOTE IS SENT TO FURTHER EXPLAIN THE FAILURE OF FORD, GARLITCH FORD, AND THE NHTSA TO PROPERLY ASSURE ME THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED ADEQUATELY. IT WAS NOT. I REMOVED THE USELESS BRACKETS GARLITCH FORD INSTALLED UNDER YOUR AND FORD'S DIRECTION, AND THE RECALL 10S13 WAS NOT PERFORMED PROPERLY. I HAVE THE EVIDENCE. I'D LIKE TO KNOW WHAT IS THE POINT IN A RECALL WHEN ABSOLUTELY NOBODY WILL STAND BEHIND IT? WE MAY AS WELL JUST IGNORE THEM ALL IN THAT CASE. SO TO EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM, PER THE INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE RECALL THE TECHNICIAN WAS SUPPOSED TO REMOVE ALL UNDERCOAT/PAINT/E-COAT FROM AREAS SPECIFIED TO THE BASE METAL IN ORDER TO INSPECT THE AXLE FOR CRACKS. THIS WAS NOT DONE. ORIGINAL E-COAT IS CLEARLY VISIBLE IN THE PHOTOS. SO THE INSPECTION OF THE AXLE WAS NOT DONE PROPERLY. I CANT SAY I AM SURPRISED. THEN, SINCE THE AXLE PASSED THE IMPROPERLY PERFORMED INSPECTION, THEY INSTALLED THE ATROCIOUSLY "DESIGNED" BRACKETS TO THE AXLE. AGAIN, THE INSTRUCTIONS SAY TO REMOVE ALL PAINT, UNDERCOATING, OR E-COAT FROM THE AXLE TO BARE METAL, AS THE EPOXY OR ADHESIVE OR WHATEVER IT IS WILL NOT ADHERE TO ANYTHING BUT BARE METAL. THIS WAS NOT DONE EITHER, OBVIOUSLY. I DID NOT TAKE THIS IN FOR RECALL 15S27 AS THERE WAS NO POINT. THE ONLY CONCERN OF THAT RECALL WAS TO MAKE SURE THE SPACING FROM THE AXLE WELD TO THE BRACKET WAS WITHIN SPECIFICATION, AND IT WAS. AUTONATION FORD OF TUSTIN CONFIRMED THAT. HO

Suspension
Filed Aug 8, 2020117,400 milesMA

MY AXEL CRACKED ON LEFT SIDE, NOISE ALERTED ME TO THE DANGER. CAREER MECHANIC, NEVER SEEN A RUSTED OUT OR CRACKED REAR AXLE. I ALSO WORKED OUT OF MY HOME ON CARS RUNNING MY OWN SHOP FOR DECADES. AGAIN I HAVE NEVER CHANGED A CRACKED REAR AXLE. THE FIRST RECALL WAS IN MY OPINION ONLY A POOR ATTEMPT AT POSTPONING THE INEVITABLE AXEL FAILURE TO A LATER DATE. NOT A NORMAL FAILURE FOR A SUPPOSED NAME BRAND LEADING AUTOMOTIVE MAKER. FORD'S LATEST AD ON TV SAID SOMETHING LIKE THEY CARE ABOUT THEIR CUSTOMERS AT THE END OF THE AD, WHAT A JOKE, FALSE ADVERTISING OR SHOULD MY CLAIM FOR $1,420.28 BE PAID AND SHOW THEY CARE? THE ORIGINAL AXEL WAS IN MY OPINION A BIT THIN AND I READ THAT THE METAL WAS NOT THE BEST ON A FEW WEB SITES. ALSO FILLING THE HOLLOW AREAS FOR THE AXLE ASSEMBLY WITH FOAM ONLY RETAINED WATER AND ACCELERATED RUSTING WHICH OF COURSE ONLY WEAKENS A BAD AXEL DESIGN. THE NEW DESIGN REAR AXLE IS DEFINITELY HEAVIER, NO FOAM AND HAS NO OPEN AREAS TO HOLD WATER. THE NEW DESIGN SEEMS TO HAVE ADDRESSED ALL THE ORIGINAL AXLE'S DESIGN FLAWS. WHICH SHOWS FORD DID KNOW THERE WERE DESIGN FLAWS. JANNELL FORD OF HANOVER MASS (781-982-4500) CONTACTED FORD WITH MY SHOCK THAT AXEL WOULD NOT BE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY EVEN AFTER SEEING THE SUPPORTING PICTURES; FORD WOULD NOT REPAIR THE AXEL ON SECOND RECALL EVEN THOUGH SEVERELY CRACKED! THEY SAID THE FIRST RECALL BRACKETS WERE INSTALLED CORRECTLY. JANNELL FORD SERVICE MANAGEMENT AGREED THAT OUR VAN WAS IN PRISTINE SHAPE, RUST FREE AND WELL

Suspension
Filed Aug 1, 2020128,000 milesOH

ALTHOUGH MY VAN HAS BEEN THROUGH ALL RECALL REPAIRS/INSPECTIONS AS I PULLED INTO MY LOCAL GAS STATION TODAY MY REAR AXLE BROKE.*DT VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO CLOSEST DEALERSHIP (DAVE KNAPP FORD LINCOLN) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD PASSED INSPECTION DURING THE RECALL. AS VEHICLE WAS BEING TOWED CONSUMER NOTICED THAT THE LEFT BRACKET APPEARED TO BE PLACED INCORRECTLY. *DL

SuspensionFire
Filed Jun 22, 2020110,000 milesMI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF THE DRIVER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE DRIVER WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, AN ODOR OF BURNING RUBBER WAS PRESENT. AFTER STOPPING THE VEHICLE IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL AND TIRE WAS RUBBING AGAINST THE WHEEL WELL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR AXLE HAD FAILED. THE MECHANIC ALSO INDICATED THAT THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED ON A PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 12V193000 (POWER TRAIN). THE LOCAL DEALER KRAPOHL FORD & LINCOLN (1415 E PICKARD RD, MT PLEASANT, MI 48858) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT YET CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)Crash
Filed May 12, 2020103,000 milesOH

IT HAS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. NEEDS WIRING HARNESS, NEEDS FRONT AND REAL AXLE REPLACEMENT. DANGEROUS. ALARM GOES OFF AT RANDOM. WON'T HOLD CHARGE. STEERING WHEEL BEARINGS ARE SHOT. *TR

Suspension
Filed May 5, 2020187,000 milesCA

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD ON A CITY STREET AT 35 MPH AND THE REAR AXLE BROKE ON THE DRIVER SIDE UNDERNEATH THE RECALL BRACKET INSTALLED BY FORD. RECALL 10S13 WAS PERFORMED ON THIS VEHICLE IN 2008 OR 2009. THE BRACKETS WERE INSTALLED AS SPECIFIED BY FORD AND OBVIOUSLY WERE INADEQUATE TO FIX OR PREVENT THE PROBLEM FROM THE ORIGINAL RECALL. FORD SHOULD NEVER HAVE BEEN ALLOWED TO GET AWAY WITH THIS POORLY DESIGNED AND EXECUTED REPAIR TO THE AXLE. THE VEHICLE WAS RECENTLY AT A FORD DEALER THAT VERIFIED THAT THE BRACKETS WERE INSTALLED CORRECTLY PER 15S27 AND FORD DENIED COVERING ANY OF THE REPAIR COST. I HAVE BACKGROUND STUDY AS A STRUCTURAL ENGINEER (I'M A LICENSED CIVIL ENGINEER) AND I USED TO WORK IN AN AUTOMOTIVE PARTS AND MACHINE SHOP. GIVEN MY EXPERIENCE, IF YOU REFER TO 10S13 THERE IS A LOCATION ON THE AXLE REFERRED TO AS A "TOOLING HOLE" ON PAGE 18 THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN USED IF FORD EVER INTENDED THESE REPAIR BRACKETS TO DO ANYTHING USEFUL. I CANT IMAGINE ANY ENGINEER DESIGNED THESE THINGS AND DISREGARDED THE OBVIOUS, TYING THE LOAD TO THIS HOLE. I HAVE THE VEHICLE BACK AND I'VE USED THIS HOLE ON BOTH SIDES TO PULL THE AXLE BACK TOGETHER AND MAKE IT AT LEAST MOVABLE UNTIL THE NEW PART ARRIVES, SO NOT ONLY DOES IT MAKE SENSE STRUCTURALLY, BUT IT WORKS PHYSICALLY AS WELL. WHY THE NHTSA WOULD ALLOW FORD TO CALL THIS A FIX AND MAKE THESE VEHICLES ACCEPTABLE TO DRIVE IS BEYOND ME. THE AXLE ALSO HAS A HORIZONTAL CRACK IN THE MIDDLE, ITS BEEN THERE SINCE THE BRACKETS WERE INSTA

Suspension
Filed Jan 23, 2020180,000 milesPA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY INCLUDED IN A RECALL REGARDING THE CRADLE SUB FRAME ASSEMBLY, FOR WHICH THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHORTLY AFTER THE RECALL REPAIR, WHILE IDLE AND DURING ACCELERATION THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD VIBRATE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC AND AFTER EXAMINING THE VEHICLE, THE MECHANIC BECAME AWARE THAT THE REAR AXLE AND SUB FRAME WAS RUSTED WHICH CAUSED THE TRACTION CONTRAIL TO FAIL. THE CONTACT CONTACTED OTHER CERTIFIED MECHANICS WHO CONFIRMED THE SUB FRAME AND REAR AXEL HOUSING ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 3, 201981,000 milesCA

THE REAR AXLE ON MY FATHER-IN-LAW'S MINIVAN SNAPPED IN HALF, EVEN THOUGH THE BRACKETS FOR THE FIRST RECALL WERE INSTALLED AND THE BRACKETS WERE THEN INSPECTED AND SIGNED OFF ON DURING THE SECOND RECALL. BOTH RECALLS WERE SIGNED OFF AS COMPLETED AND SAFE BUT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, WITH FOUR SMALL CHILDREN IN THE CAR, THE AXLE SNAPPED IN HALF. WE'VE REACHED OUT TO BOTH FORD DIRECTLY AND THE DEALERSHIPS AND NO ONE WILL ASSIST. CLEARLY THE BRACKETS WERE NOT AN ACCEPTABLE FIX FOR THIS HIGHLY DANGEROUS ISSUE. FOUR CHILDREN COULD HAVE BEEN HURT OR EVEN KILLED DUE TO FORD'S NEGLIGENCE TO PROPERLY ADDRESS THIS ISSUE. FORD FAILED TO PROPERLY CORRECT THE ISSUE WITH THE FIRST RECALL AND APPARENTLY DIDN'T CORRECT IT WITH THE SECOND EITHER.

Suspension
Filed Nov 17, 20191,172,088 milesMD

THE REAR AXLE HAS CRACKED IN THE MIDDLE AND I CANNOT DRIVE IT NOW. THIS WAS INSPECTED TWICE UNDER FORD RECALL. THE FIRST TIME THEY PUT BRACKETS ON THE FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARMS, AND THE REAR AXLE. THE SECOND TIME THEY RECALLED IT BACK TO REINSPECT THE WORK THAT HAD BEEN DONE SINCE THEY HAD MANY THAT WERE NOT PROPERLY INSPECTED THE FIRST TIME. SO , THIS IS TWICE THEY HAD IT INSPECTED, AND FAILED TO SEE IT WAS DEFECTIVE. THUS PUTTING MY LIFE AND THAT IF MY FAMILY AT RISK FOR DEATH. THANKS FORD! AFTER THE 2ND INSPECTION, THEY SAID IT WAS SAFE, BUT OFFERED TO REPLACE THE AXLE IF I WANTED TO PAY ABOUT $500 ON MY OWN. THAT WAS SUSPICIOUS IN ITSELF.

Suspension
Filed Nov 5, 2019140,000 milesKY

DRIVING IN TOWN AND REAR AXLE BUSTED IN HALF NEXT TO FORD'S SO CALLED BRACKET FIX.

EngineFire
Filed Oct 7, 2019182,000 milesNC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK THE VEHICLE, WHITE SMOKE EMERGED FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE AND THEN IT BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND LOT. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT DEEMED THE VEHICLE DESTROYED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 182,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 5, 2019150,000 milesFL

WHEN TRAVELING 15 MPH ON BRICK ROAD I PRESSED BRAKES TO STOP THEN LOUD NOISE AND CAR STILL ROLLED FORWARD - SCARY AND UNSAFE. THIS HAS HAPPENED TWICE UNDER DIFFERENT CONDITIONS - THE ABS LIGHT IS ON IN MY VEHICLE

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 30, 2019158,200 milesOR

THE PARK AND BRAKE LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON, LOOKED UP AND IT SAID THE ABS SYSTEM IS NOT WORKING LIKE IT SHOULD. THIS HAPPENS WHEN I'M DRIVING IN CITY , HIGHWAYS, NOT MOVING.

Suspension
Filed Sep 26, 2019129,493 milesCA

I WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AT ABOUT 60 MPH CHANGING LANES TO THE RIGHT I COULD HEAR TIRES SQUEALING AND THE VAN FELT LIKE IT WAS GOING TO ROLL OVER TO THE LEFT. I REGAINED CONTROL, THEN I HEARD SOME CREAKING METAL NOISE, THEN I HEARD A RUBBING NOISE AND SAW A LOT OF SMOKE COMING FROM THE REAR. I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND INSPECT, WHAT I FOUND WAS THE REAR AXLE WAS BROKEN AND DRIVER SIDE TIRE RUBBING INSIDE THE WHEEL WELL. I WAS VERY FORTUNATE TO HAVE SOMEWHERE TO PULL OVER, OTHERWISE TO CONTINUE DRIVING COULD RUPTURE THE TIRE AND/OR I WOULD BE LEFT STRANDED IN HIGHWAY SPEED TRAFFIC.

Suspension
Filed Sep 24, 2019178,000 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE CONTACT HEARD A POP SOUND AND THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE WENT FLAT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BACK TO THE CONTACT'S HOME. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR AXLE WAS BENDING INWARDS DUE TO RUST OR CORROSION, WHICH CAUSED THE TIRE TO SHRED AND DEFLATE. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V608000 (SUSPENSION). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GERMAIN FORD OF BEAVERCREEK (2356 HELLER DR, BEAVERCREEK, OH 45434, (937) 429-1300) WHERE THEY STATED THAT THE REAR AXLE WAS INSTALLED CORRECTLY; HOWEVER, THE RECALL STATED OTHERWISE. THE DEALER REFUSED TO HONOR THE RECALL WITH A FREE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 178,000.

Suspension
Filed Sep 13, 2019188,129 milesWI

VEHICLE IN MOTION WITH FAMILY 70-75MPH ON INTERSTATE. REAR LEFT TIRE BEGAN RUBBING THE INSIDE WHEEL WELL. PULLED OFF FROM INTERSTATE TO A NEARBY EXIT. JACKED VAN IN A PARKING LOT TO SEE REAR LEFT SUBFRAME (AXLE) HAD FRACTURED. BRACKET INSTALLED BY FORD PER REAR SUBFRAME/AXLE RECALL HAD FAILED - MISSING FASTENERS - RUSTED AWAY. LUCKILY FAMILY IS ALIVE, BUT VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND PRESENTLY IN GARAGE. WILL FORD REPAIR IT OR BUY IT BACK?

Suspension
Filed Sep 7, 2019200,000 milesMI

WHILE DRIVING, I MADE A LEFT-HAND TURN, AND THE REAR AXLE CRACKED IN HALF ON THE RIGHT-HAND SIDE.

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 25, 2019220,000 milesWI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, A CLUNKING TYPE NOISE WAS PRESENT COMING FROM THE SUBFRAME AND THE VEHICLE BECAME UNSTABLE. UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SUBFRAME MOUNTS SEPARATED DUE TO RUSTING. THE CAUSE OF THE RUST WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V030000 (STRUCTURE); HOWEVER, THE FAILURE CONTINUED. TOYCEN FORD (1000 CHIPPEWA CROSSING BLVD, CHIPPEWA FALLS, WI) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 220,000.

Suspension
Filed Jun 17, 2019205,000 milesMO

WHILE DRIVING EXPERIENCED LOSS OF CONTROL AND REAR WHEEL CANTED INWARD AND RUBBING ON WHEEL WELL. REAR AXLE WAS COMPLETELY CRACKED IN HALF ON ONE SIDE AND 3/4 ON THE OTHER SIDE. THIS IS 2 YRS AFTER THE FORD RECALL THAT WAS SUPPOSED TO PREVENT THIS FROM HAPPENING.

Suspension › Rear
Filed Jun 14, 2019110,000 milesKY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 FORD WINDSTAR. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND IT SWERVED OFF THE ROAD. THE REAR TWO WHEELS WOBBLED AND SHIFTED THE TIRES OUT OF PLACE. THE CONTACT WAS FINALLY ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE WHEN IT CAME TO A HALT ON THE SHOULDER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S HOME. THE CONTACT CHECKED THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE REAR AXLE WAS WORN. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN.

Complaints 1-50 of 1,510, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 1995
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20051000Routine
200424020Routine
2003 — this page1,5109271Fatalities reported
20021,3539481Fatalities reported
20011,68616621Fatalities reported
20001,67516553Fatalities reported
19991,52213611Fatalities reported
19981,43314653Fatalities reported
1997192690Routine
19961,3869451Fatalities reported
19953,3268502Fatalities reported
199423000Routine
199311010Routine
19922000Routine
19913000Routine
19906010Routine

Compare every Windstar year →

2003 Ford Windstar: questions buyers ask

Is the 2003 Ford Windstar a good car?

It is not among the Windstar years to avoid. Owners filed 1,510 complaints, against about 1,510 for a typical Windstar year. The most common complaint is about the brakes (38%).

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Ford Windstar?

The brakes: 574 of the 1,510 complaints (38%) are about it. Owners most often say it sets off warning lights on the dash (33%) and leaks oil or fluid (6%). The typical report comes at 90,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2003 Ford Windstar have?

9 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Sep 29, 2015. The largest, 09V399000, covered 4,500,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2003 Ford Windstar problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 98,070 miles. For the brakes the midpoint is 90,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2003 Ford Windstar?

Yes, 6 times. The latest, EA10007 ("Front Subframe Corrosion Failures"), was opened Dec 20, 2010 and closed Mar 17, 2011.

Are there service bulletins for the 2003 Ford Windstar?

The manufacturer filed 68 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (14), the body and frame (10) and the suspension (8). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

1 death reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Sep 29, 2015. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.