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Ford Windstar Problems - READ ONLY

2608 messages,  Last post on Oct 27, 2006 at 8:51 PM

You are in the Ford Windstar Forum.

What is this discussion about? Ford Windstar, Van

Messages Page 212 of 262

#2106 of 2608 Re: Another head gasket on my 1995 windstar [bgtg] by gpitcher

Nov 01, 2005 (1:46 pm)

Replying to: bgtg (Aug 29, 2005 7:28 pm)
Yep, I'm in the same boat. My first gasket went at around 80k, and it took the engine w/ it. Ford put in a reman short block and it's been fine up until a few weeks ago when it went again at 160k. Since there are so many other things wrong with this van, including a broken steering wheel bushing, a transmission that's been giving me problems for the past 3 years, broken seats, etc., etc., etc., I think I'm just going to donate it.

#2107 of 2608 2000Windstar Transmission Problem by vls2

Nov 01, 2005 (2:06 pm)

My 2000 Windstar broke down 400 miles from home because the torque converter failed. The car had 65,000 miles on it and had just had its 60,000mile check up where they changes transmission oil and replaced seals. So much for Ford maintenance. The total charge for replacing the torque converter and valve body cover was $1995. This for a car that is worth between $5000 and $6000. I'll never buy another Ford. In my opinion the Japanese cars are well worth the extra money you pay up front not to have these problems. It is too bad for the American worker and Ford shareholders, but after 45 years of buying American, I have to give up on American automobiles

#2108 of 2608 Heat problems on 2000 windstar by lakeshow

Nov 02, 2005 (12:01 pm)

There's a thumping noise that starts when I turn the ac lever to the heat side. As soon as its all the way to the cold side the sound stops. Which sucks cause it's getting cold and my wife and kids need heat. We dont hear the thumping until we switch over to heat!!! Any suggestions.

#2109 of 2608 Why no free repair for Windstar by jeffyscott

Nov 02, 2005 (4:37 pm)

The documents linked under Section 4: Leaking Front Cover and Intake Manifold Gaskets in V-6 Engines at http://www.flamingfords.info/ indicate that Ford paid for free replacement of "front cover gasket" on some 96-97 models with the 3.8 L engine, but apparently not for the Windstar. What is going on? How can they say it is defective if it is on a Mustang but not on a Windstar with the same engine?
 
BTW, is the front cover gasket the same thing as timing cover gasket?

#2110 of 2608 Re: 2003 Windstar [lindab1] by avw4mud

Nov 02, 2005 (8:26 pm)

Replying to: lindab1 (Oct 26, 2005 8:26 pm)
Have you checked the 02 sensors. These affect the air mixture in the fuel injection and cause the engine to run badly if they are slow or bad. 40 k miles is unusual, but not unheard of.. I think there are several. Also check the EGR valve.

#2111 of 2608 Windstar Engine Failure by avw4mud

Nov 02, 2005 (8:38 pm)

Does anyone know if a one time heavy exposure to antifreeze can cause an oxygen sensor to turn green if the engine is never started again after the exposure.

#2112 of 2608 Re: Heat problems on 2000 windstar [lakeshow] by jmcartier

Nov 03, 2005 (8:32 am)

Replying to: lakeshow (Nov 02, 2005 12:01 pm)
I had the same problem with my 2003 windstar. It is one of 2 things. A blend door actuator, or a cracked blend door. Mine was just an actuator. The actuator is only about $50 from the dealer, if it needs a blend door you have to buy a heater box for about $1000.
I spoke with a ford technician, and he said if you have a cracked blend door, it can be repaired by removing the actuator and placing a hose clamp at the base of the door. Though not the best fix, it will work and probablly get you through winter. I have done some research and this seems to be a common problem. Ford has way over complicated this system. much more than it has to be. I hope this helps. This is the first Ford I have ever owned. I have only had Toyotas up till now. And really wanted a Sienna, but could not afford one. I have owned my Windstar for 6 weeks and it has been back to the Dealer 4 times for warranty repairs. (Blend door actuator, Right Rear window motor, interior lights flicker sometimes and Transmission shifts not smooth) Dealer says trans is shifting normally. These vans are also known for steering racks, p/s pumps, and other issues. Figured I would give Ford a try with this one. Hope this one won't burn me.
 
Justin

#2113 of 2608 Stalling Windstar (fabdul) by rugmankc

Nov 03, 2005 (12:25 pm)

Sorry, It's a TSB tech service bulletin. Dealer should have them. But, the item replaced was the Air Bypass Valve. Small and tubular 3inches long by 1inch diameter, it sits on top of engine a little to right of center and toward the back. Mine is silver in color. It ran around $300, most of which was diagnostics and labor. Next time I will do it myself or have my mechanic do it. There are other possible items, vacuum lines, computer reprogramming, and throttle positioning sensor. But, I think this is a commom problem on the Windstar.
 
Good Luck

#2114 of 2608 Re: Windstar Engine Failure [avw4mud] by alcan

Nov 04, 2005 (3:20 am)

Replying to: avw4mud (Nov 02, 2005 8:38 pm)
Yes.

Messages Page 212 of 262

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