The 1999 Ford Windstar represents the start of its second generation, a major redesign aimed at competing in the fiercely competitive minivan segment. This dedicated minivan body style offered families a spacious and comfortable vehicle. Trims typically included the LX, SE, and the more upscale SEL. Originally priced new from around $20,000 to $30,000, it stood out for its smooth ride, improved safety features, and user-friendly interior, making it a popular choice for suburban families.
The Good
The 1999 Ford Windstar offered a comfortable and quiet ride, making long family trips enjoyable. Its practical design featured dual sliding doors, abundant cargo space, and a user-friendly interior layout. For practical buyers, its affordability and spaciousness presented excellent value. Emotionally, it provided peace of mind with its family-focused features and the ability to comfortably transport loved ones and all their gear.
The Bad
Prospective buyers of the 1999 Ford Windstar should be wary of common issues. Notorious weaknesses include potential transmission failures, particularly at higher mileages, and issues with the power steering system. Rust on the subframe and rear suspension components, along with various engine oil leaks and head gasket concerns, are frequently reported problems requiring careful inspection before purchase.
1999 Ford Windstar: Quick Overview
The 1999 Ford Windstar was primarily offered with one robust engine option:
- Engine: 3.8-liter OHV V6
- Horsepower: 180 hp @ 5200 rpm
- Torque: 220 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic (4R70W)
- Fuel Economy: Estimated around 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway, varying slightly by driving conditions and maintenance.
- 0-60 MPH: Approximately 10-11 seconds, which was respectable for a minivan of its size and class at the time.
- Towing Capacity: With the optional trailer towing package, the Windstar could tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it capable for light recreational use.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX: The base model, offering essential features like power windows and door locks, air conditioning, AM/FM stereo, dual front airbags, and 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS). It provided a solid foundation for family transportation.
- SE: Stepped up with amenities such as alloy wheels, privacy glass, a power driver's seat, remote keyless entry, and an upgraded audio system. Fog lamps and a more sporting exterior appearance were also typically included.
- SEL (Limited): The premium trim level, loaded with luxury features. This included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a multi-CD changer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and often a power-sliding passenger-side door (which was optional on the SE). Heated exterior mirrors and an onboard trip computer further enhanced its appeal.
These specifications highlight the Windstar's design as a practical, family-oriented vehicle with a range of comfort and convenience features across its trim levels.
1999 Ford Windstar Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Windstar |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Van |
| Category | Cargo Van |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | OAKVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 3-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3546 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5380 pounds |
| Overall Height | 68.00 inches |
| Overall Length | 200.90 inches |
| Overall Width | 76.60 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 120.70 inches |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.8L V6 |
| Engine Size | 3.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $18,425 |
| Invoice Price | $16,755 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1999 Ford Windstar Have?
The 1999 Ford Windstar, while offering many conveniences, is known for several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns. One of the most significant and costly issues often cited by owners is related to the 4-speed automatic transmission (4R70W). These transmissions are prone to premature failure, exhibiting symptoms such as delayed engagement, slipping gears, harsh shifts, or complete failure, often requiring expensive rebuilding or replacement. This particular concern plagues many Ford vehicles from this era.
Another common problem area involves the power steering system, with leaks frequently developing from the power steering pump, hoses, and the steering rack itself. Owners also report various engine-related issues, including persistent oil leaks from the oil pan gasket and intake manifold gaskets. In some cases, intake manifold gasket failures can lead to coolant mixing with the oil, causing severe engine damage. While less common than transmission issues, head gasket failures have also been reported.
Brake components often experience premature wear, requiring frequent replacement of pads and rotors, and ABS sensor failures are not uncommon. Furthermore, issues with the front suspension components, such as worn struts and bushings, can lead to clunking noises and degraded ride quality. A very serious long-term reliability concern, particularly for this generation of Windstars (1999-2003), is excessive corrosion of the rear axle beam. This can lead to the axle fracturing, posing a significant safety risk. Ford issued a recall for this specific issue, though affected vehicles can still be found.
Several recalls were issued for the 1999 Windstar. A prominent one involved the cruise control deactivation switch, which had the potential to overheat and cause a fire, even when the vehicle was turned off. Another critical recall, as mentioned, addressed the rear axle fracture risk due to corrosion. Other recalls involved potential issues with fuel tank straps and certain seat belt components. These widespread issues contribute to a reputation for below-average long-term reliability and higher maintenance costs as the vehicle ages.
Another common problem area involves the power steering system, with leaks frequently developing from the power steering pump, hoses, and the steering rack itself. Owners also report various engine-related issues, including persistent oil leaks from the oil pan gasket and intake manifold gaskets. In some cases, intake manifold gasket failures can lead to coolant mixing with the oil, causing severe engine damage. While less common than transmission issues, head gasket failures have also been reported.
Brake components often experience premature wear, requiring frequent replacement of pads and rotors, and ABS sensor failures are not uncommon. Furthermore, issues with the front suspension components, such as worn struts and bushings, can lead to clunking noises and degraded ride quality. A very serious long-term reliability concern, particularly for this generation of Windstars (1999-2003), is excessive corrosion of the rear axle beam. This can lead to the axle fracturing, posing a significant safety risk. Ford issued a recall for this specific issue, though affected vehicles can still be found.
Several recalls were issued for the 1999 Windstar. A prominent one involved the cruise control deactivation switch, which had the potential to overheat and cause a fire, even when the vehicle was turned off. Another critical recall, as mentioned, addressed the rear axle fracture risk due to corrosion. Other recalls involved potential issues with fuel tank straps and certain seat belt components. These widespread issues contribute to a reputation for below-average long-term reliability and higher maintenance costs as the vehicle ages.
How long will the 1999 Ford Windstar last?
Based on owner data and general maintenance habits, the 1999 Ford Windstar typically provides an average service life of around 120,000 to 150,000 miles, or approximately 10 to 12 years, before significant and costly repairs become frequent. While some meticulously maintained examples might exceed 200,000 miles, this is often achieved with prior major component replacements, particularly the transmission.
Long-term durability is heavily compromised by several known weaknesses. The automatic transmission remains the Achilles' heel, often failing well before other major components. Over time, rust becomes a pervasive issue, critically affecting the rear axle beam and subframe, which can lead to serious structural and safety concerns. Engine oil leaks and various electrical gremlins also tend to worsen with age and mileage, making the vehicle increasingly expensive to maintain as it approaches its second decade on the road.
Long-term durability is heavily compromised by several known weaknesses. The automatic transmission remains the Achilles' heel, often failing well before other major components. Over time, rust becomes a pervasive issue, critically affecting the rear axle beam and subframe, which can lead to serious structural and safety concerns. Engine oil leaks and various electrical gremlins also tend to worsen with age and mileage, making the vehicle increasingly expensive to maintain as it approaches its second decade on the road.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1999 Ford Windstar, while designed for family utility, offered technology and safety features consistent with the late 1990s, lacking the advanced systems found in modern vehicles.
For built-in tech and entertainment, standard features included an AM/FM stereo, with an optional single CD player available on higher trims. Remote keyless entry was a convenient optional feature. Upper trims like the SEL could be equipped with automatic climate control for improved passenger comfort and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Some models offered optional rear-seat audio controls, allowing passengers to manage their entertainment. Power windows, door locks, and mirrors were standard or optional depending on the trim. Advanced infotainment systems like touchscreens, navigation, or Bluetooth connectivity were not available or common in vehicles of this era.
Driver-assistance features, by today's standards, were essentially nonexistent. There was no electronic stability control, traction control was often an option on higher trims or not available, and modern systems like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, or adaptive cruise control were decades away from becoming mainstream in minivans.
In terms of safety features, the 1999 Windstar came standard with dual front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) were also standard across all trim levels, enhancing braking control in emergency situations. A popular family-oriented optional feature was integrated child safety seats in the second row, providing convenience and security for young children. The vehicle also incorporated side-impact protection beams in the doors.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 1999 Windstar were generally good for its time:
These ratings indicated a respectable level of occupant protection for its class in the late 1990s.
For built-in tech and entertainment, standard features included an AM/FM stereo, with an optional single CD player available on higher trims. Remote keyless entry was a convenient optional feature. Upper trims like the SEL could be equipped with automatic climate control for improved passenger comfort and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Some models offered optional rear-seat audio controls, allowing passengers to manage their entertainment. Power windows, door locks, and mirrors were standard or optional depending on the trim. Advanced infotainment systems like touchscreens, navigation, or Bluetooth connectivity were not available or common in vehicles of this era.
Driver-assistance features, by today's standards, were essentially nonexistent. There was no electronic stability control, traction control was often an option on higher trims or not available, and modern systems like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, or adaptive cruise control were decades away from becoming mainstream in minivans.
In terms of safety features, the 1999 Windstar came standard with dual front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) were also standard across all trim levels, enhancing braking control in emergency situations. A popular family-oriented optional feature was integrated child safety seats in the second row, providing convenience and security for young children. The vehicle also incorporated side-impact protection beams in the doors.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 1999 Windstar were generally good for its time:
- Frontal Crash Test (Driver): 4 out of 5 stars
- Frontal Crash Test (Passenger): 4 out of 5 stars
- Side Impact Crash Test (Driver): 5 out of 5 stars
- Side Impact Crash Test (Rear Passenger): 5 out of 5 stars
- Rollover Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
These ratings indicated a respectable level of occupant protection for its class in the late 1990s.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1999 Ford Windstar Prices and Market Value
When new in 1999, the Ford Windstar carried a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) ranging from approximately $20,000 for the base LX model to upwards of $30,000 for the fully equipped SEL trim.
Today, the current used market prices are remarkably low. A 1999 Windstar in fair to good condition, with moderate mileage, typically fetches anywhere from under $1,000 to perhaps $2,500, with excellent, low-mileage examples being rare and still not commanding much more. Many are valued primarily for parts or as very cheap, short-term transportation.
The depreciation for the Windstar has been severe. Like most minivans, they experienced rapid depreciation, but the Windstar's known mechanical issues, particularly with the transmission and the notorious rear axle corrosion, significantly accelerated this decline. Factors severely affecting its resale value include extensive body rust, the functional state of the transmission and engine, high mileage, and any unrepaired recall issues. Its age and the general shift in consumer preference away from older minivans also play a role.
Today, the current used market prices are remarkably low. A 1999 Windstar in fair to good condition, with moderate mileage, typically fetches anywhere from under $1,000 to perhaps $2,500, with excellent, low-mileage examples being rare and still not commanding much more. Many are valued primarily for parts or as very cheap, short-term transportation.
The depreciation for the Windstar has been severe. Like most minivans, they experienced rapid depreciation, but the Windstar's known mechanical issues, particularly with the transmission and the notorious rear axle corrosion, significantly accelerated this decline. Factors severely affecting its resale value include extensive body rust, the functional state of the transmission and engine, high mileage, and any unrepaired recall issues. Its age and the general shift in consumer preference away from older minivans also play a role.
1999 Ford Windstar Cost of Ownership
For a 1999 Ford Windstar, insurance costs are generally very low due to its minimal current market value, making it affordable to cover. However, fuel costs can be a significant factor; with an average fuel economy of around 17 city/24 highway MPG, it's not particularly efficient by today's standards, meaning more frequent trips to the pump.
Routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations is inexpensive, but repair costs are where the vehicle becomes costly. Frequent issues with the transmission, power steering, engine leaks, and the potential for severe rear axle corrosion mean that major repairs are often needed and can quickly exceed the vehicle's value. Therefore, in the long term, the 1999 Ford Windstar is generally considered a costly vehicle to own, primarily due to its propensity for expensive mechanical failures rather than its initial purchase price or basic running costs.
Routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations is inexpensive, but repair costs are where the vehicle becomes costly. Frequent issues with the transmission, power steering, engine leaks, and the potential for severe rear axle corrosion mean that major repairs are often needed and can quickly exceed the vehicle's value. Therefore, in the long term, the 1999 Ford Windstar is generally considered a costly vehicle to own, primarily due to its propensity for expensive mechanical failures rather than its initial purchase price or basic running costs.
1999 Ford Windstar Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
26.00 gallons
City Mileage
17 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
23 miles/gallon
1999 Ford Windstar Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1999 Ford Windstar Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
1999 Ford Windstar Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 Ford Windstar is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Ford Windstar Compare to Other Van?
When stacking the 1999 Ford Windstar against its key rivals in the highly competitive minivan class, namely the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and the dominant Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan, a clear picture of its strengths and significant weaknesses emerges.
In terms of performance, the Windstar's 3.8-liter V6, producing 180 horsepower, offered competitive acceleration and adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising, comparable to the base V6s in its rivals. However, vehicles like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna often provided a more refined driving experience, superior handling, and smoother power delivery. Chrysler's minivans had a range of engine options, some with similar power output.
Regarding features, the 1999 Windstar saw a significant update, finally offering dual sliding doors, a critical convenience that its rivals already featured. It provided comfortable seating, optional integrated child seats, and a range of power amenities similar to its competitors. While practical, its interior design was often considered less refined or innovative compared to the Japanese alternatives, which typically offered more thoughtful storage solutions and higher-quality materials.
However, reliability is where the Windstar notably lagged. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna of this era are widely regarded as vastly superior in long-term dependability, suffering from far fewer major mechanical failures and maintaining strong resale values as a result. While Chrysler minivans also had their share of common issues, the Windstar's notorious transmission failures and the serious rear axle corrosion recall significantly hampered its long-term reputation and dependability, making it a much riskier used purchase.
In terms of price, the Windstar was typically positioned competitively when new, often slightly undercutting the more premium Japanese offerings. On the used market today, it is significantly cheaper than a comparable Odyssey or Sienna due to its reliability concerns and age.
Recommended Alternatives: For anyone considering a used minivan from this era, the 1999-2003 Toyota Sienna and 1999-2004 Honda Odyssey are unequivocally superior choices. They offer substantially better reliability, a more refined driving experience, and better long-term value, despite potentially higher initial used purchase prices. While the Chrysler/Dodge minivans offered good utility and features, they also faced their own set of reliability challenges, though arguably less severe than the Windstar's most critical faults.
In terms of performance, the Windstar's 3.8-liter V6, producing 180 horsepower, offered competitive acceleration and adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising, comparable to the base V6s in its rivals. However, vehicles like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna often provided a more refined driving experience, superior handling, and smoother power delivery. Chrysler's minivans had a range of engine options, some with similar power output.
Regarding features, the 1999 Windstar saw a significant update, finally offering dual sliding doors, a critical convenience that its rivals already featured. It provided comfortable seating, optional integrated child seats, and a range of power amenities similar to its competitors. While practical, its interior design was often considered less refined or innovative compared to the Japanese alternatives, which typically offered more thoughtful storage solutions and higher-quality materials.
However, reliability is where the Windstar notably lagged. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna of this era are widely regarded as vastly superior in long-term dependability, suffering from far fewer major mechanical failures and maintaining strong resale values as a result. While Chrysler minivans also had their share of common issues, the Windstar's notorious transmission failures and the serious rear axle corrosion recall significantly hampered its long-term reputation and dependability, making it a much riskier used purchase.
In terms of price, the Windstar was typically positioned competitively when new, often slightly undercutting the more premium Japanese offerings. On the used market today, it is significantly cheaper than a comparable Odyssey or Sienna due to its reliability concerns and age.
Recommended Alternatives: For anyone considering a used minivan from this era, the 1999-2003 Toyota Sienna and 1999-2004 Honda Odyssey are unequivocally superior choices. They offer substantially better reliability, a more refined driving experience, and better long-term value, despite potentially higher initial used purchase prices. While the Chrysler/Dodge minivans offered good utility and features, they also faced their own set of reliability challenges, though arguably less severe than the Windstar's most critical faults.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Ford Windstar a Good Van?
The 1999 Ford Windstar is a vehicle with a mixed legacy. It's ideal for a very specific and limited demographic: individuals or families operating on an extremely tight budget who require a spacious vehicle for very short-term or local transportation and are prepared for potential mechanical issues. It could also suit someone mechanically inclined who can tackle repairs themselves, significantly reducing ownership costs.
Is it worth buying? Generally, no, not for anyone seeking reliable, long-term transportation without significant investment. Its pervasive reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and the critical rear axle corrosion, make it a risky proposition. However, under very specific conditions, it might be considered. It should only be bought used, at an absolute bargain price (e.g., under $1,500), and only after a meticulous pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic confirms no immediate transmission problems, no significant subframe or rear axle rust, and the engine is sound. Buyers must understand that it will likely be a temporary solution and costly repairs are a strong possibility, potentially making it uneconomical to fix when major components inevitably fail. It is not recommended for anyone relying on it as a primary, dependable family vehicle.
Is it worth buying? Generally, no, not for anyone seeking reliable, long-term transportation without significant investment. Its pervasive reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and the critical rear axle corrosion, make it a risky proposition. However, under very specific conditions, it might be considered. It should only be bought used, at an absolute bargain price (e.g., under $1,500), and only after a meticulous pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic confirms no immediate transmission problems, no significant subframe or rear axle rust, and the engine is sound. Buyers must understand that it will likely be a temporary solution and costly repairs are a strong possibility, potentially making it uneconomical to fix when major components inevitably fail. It is not recommended for anyone relying on it as a primary, dependable family vehicle.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.