The 1996 Ford Windstar is a front-wheel-drive minivan that entered production for the 1995 model year, replacing the Ford Aerostar. It was offered in various trims, typically including the base, GL, and GLS. With a starting MSRP often in the mid-$20,000s, the Windstar stood out for its car-like handling and comfortable ride, appealing to families seeking practicality and a more refined driving experience than some competitors.
The Good
The 1996 Windstar offered a smooth and comfortable ride, appealing to families. Its spacious interior provided ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for daily errands and road trips. The refined handling offered a more car-like experience, adding to its desirability.
The Bad
Owners of the 1996 Ford Windstar should be aware of potential issues such as transmission problems, particularly with the 4-speed automatic. Other common concerns include radiator leaks, power steering failures, and occasional electrical glitches. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these potential weaknesses.
1996 Ford Windstar: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1996 Ford Windstar was primarily offered with two engine options:
- 3.0L Vulcan V6
- 3.8L Essex V6
- Horsepower:
- 3.0L Vulcan V6: Approximately 145 horsepower
- 3.8L Essex V6: Approximately 155-160 horsepower
- Fuel Economy:
Fuel economy varied depending on the engine and driving conditions, but generally, owners could expect around 16-18 MPG in the city and 19-22 MPG on the highway for the 3.0L, and slightly less for the 3.8L. - 0-60 Times:
0-60 MPH times were typically in the range of 10-12 seconds, depending on the engine and load. - Towing Capacity:
The towing capacity for the 1996 Ford Windstar was generally around 2,000 lbs when properly equipped with a towing package. - Trim-Level Features:
Key trim levels and their common features included:- Base: Standard features typically included power steering, power brakes, intermittent wipers, and a basic AM/FM stereo.
- GL: Added amenities such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim.
- GLS: Represented the higher end, often featuring alloy wheels, a premium sound system, captain's chairs in the second row, and sometimes a power driver's seat.
1996 Ford Windstar Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1996 |
| 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 | 3545 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 68.00 inches |
| Overall Length | 201.20 inches |
| Overall Width | 75.40 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 120.70 inches |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3L V6 |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| 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) | $18,270 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1996 Ford Windstar Have?
The 1996 Ford Windstar, like many vehicles of its era, has a history of certain frequently reported problems that owners should be aware of. One of the most persistent and costly issues involves the transmission. The 4-speed automatic transmission, particularly the AX4S and later AX4N, has been known to develop problems, including slipping gears, harsh shifting, and outright failure. This is a significant concern that can lead to expensive repairs. Another common area of concern is the cooling system. Radiator leaks are frequently reported, often leading to overheating issues. The intake manifold gasket has also been a point of failure, contributing to coolant leaks. Power steering failures, characterized by a loss of assist, are also not uncommon. Owners may experience whining noises or a complete loss of steering support. Electrical gremlins can also plague the Windstar, with issues ranging from faulty power window motors and door locks to problems with the instrument cluster and warning lights. While specific recalls for the 1996 model year related to major powertrain failures are not extensively documented, ongoing maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly are crucial for mitigating long-term reliability concerns. It's important for prospective buyers to thoroughly inspect a used 1996 Windstar for signs of these common problems, especially the transmission and cooling system, as addressing them can be a significant investment.
How long will the 1996 Ford Windstar last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance habits, a well-maintained 1996 Ford Windstar can realistically achieve between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. However, achieving this mileage often requires proactive attention to its known weaknesses. The long-term durability is heavily influenced by the owner's commitment to regular fluid changes, especially for the transmission and coolant, and addressing minor leaks or noises promptly. Vehicles that have not received consistent maintenance, particularly concerning the transmission and cooling system, are prone to premature failure, significantly limiting their service life. Conversely, with diligent care, the Windstar can serve as a reliable family hauler for many years, though potential repair costs should be factored into long-term ownership.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1996 Ford Windstar offered a functional, though not overly advanced, suite of technology and safety features for its time. Standard technology included a basic AM/FM stereo system, often with cassette or CD player options. Power windows and locks were common on mid-to-higher trims like the GL and GLS, enhancing convenience. Climate control was typically manual, though automatic climate control was an available option on some higher-end configurations. Driver-assistance features were minimal by today's standards; cruise control was a common convenience feature. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available as an option on many models, providing enhanced braking control, particularly in slippery conditions. In terms of safety, the 1996 Windstar came equipped with driver and front passenger airbags. Lap and shoulder belts were standard for all seating positions. The vehicle's structure was designed to absorb impact energy. While official crash-test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for this specific model year may be difficult to find or less comprehensive than modern tests, minivans of this era generally aimed to provide adequate protection for occupants. Some models offered optional rear entertainment systems, such as a VCR or a small screen, to keep younger passengers occupied on longer journeys. The GLS trim often included a premium sound system, offering better audio quality. Overall, the tech and safety features were geared towards practicality and basic passenger comfort and protection, reflecting the automotive landscape of the mid-1990s.
What Colors Options are Available?
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1996 Ford Windstar Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1996 Ford Windstar typically had an MSRP ranging from the low $20,000s for base models to the mid-$30,000s for fully-equipped GLS trims. Like most vehicles, the Windstar experienced significant depreciation in its initial years. Today, the used market prices for a 1996 Ford Windstar are generally quite low, often falling in the $1,000 to $4,000 range, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and trim level. Factors significantly affecting its resale value include its mechanical condition, particularly the transmission and engine health, the presence of rust, interior wear and tear, and the overall maintenance history. Vehicles in exceptional condition with lower mileage might command a slightly higher price, but its age and the availability of newer, more technologically advanced minivans limit its overall market appeal and value.
1996 Ford Windstar Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1996 Ford Windstar can be economical in terms of initial purchase price and insurance premiums, which are generally low for older vehicles. Fuel costs are moderate, with V6 engines offering average MPG for their class. However, long-term ownership costs can become significant due to potential repair expenses. Transmission issues, cooling system problems, and occasional electrical faults can lead to costly repairs. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and addressing minor issues promptly, is essential to keep these costs down. While not inherently expensive to own day-to-day, its potential for significant repair bills makes it a vehicle where a contingency fund for maintenance is advisable, potentially making it costly if major components fail.
1996 Ford Windstar Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
20.00 gallons
City Mileage
17 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
25 miles/gallon
1996 Ford Windstar Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1996 Ford Windstar Recalls & Defects
Seats
Recall date
1996-07-01
Recall no.
96v114000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Four Fasteners Securing THE Driver's Seat TO THE Floorpan Were NOT Torqued TO Proper Specifications.
Consequence
THE Driver's Seat MAY NOT Properly Hold IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Accident Resulting IN Personal Injury TO THE Occupant.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Driver's Seat Fasteners and Retorque TO Proper Specifications.
Notes
System: Interior; Seat Tracks and Anchors. Vehicle Description: Light Duty Passenger Mini-Van. Owner Notification: Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin ON or Before July 24, 1996. Note: Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (Prndl)
Recall date
1996-09-05
Recall no.
96v166000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Park Pawl Abutment Bracket HAS A Sharp Edge Which CAN Cause THE Parking Pawl TO Hang UP and NOT Engage THE Park Gear. This Would Allow THE Vehicle TO Move Even Though THE Gear Shift Indicator Shows That THE Vehicle IS IN Park.
Consequence
Unintended and Unexpected Vehicle Movement CAN Result IN Personal Injury and Property Damage.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Replace THE Park Pawl Abutment Bracket.
Notes
Owner Notification:owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin September 23, 1996.note:owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date
1996-05-14
Recall no.
96v086000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Park Pawl Shaft WAS Improperly Positioned When THE Roll PIN That Retains IT WAS Installed During Transmission Assembly. IF THE Shaft WAS NOT Properly Positioned, THE Roll PIN MAY NOT Have Lined UP With THE Groove IN THE Shaft and Have Been Crushed AT Assembly. Also, A Burr Could Have Been Raised ON THE Shaft.
Consequence
This Could Result IN THE Park Pawl Occasionally NOT Engaging When THE Transmission Selector Lever IS Placed IN THE Park Position. This Could Result IN THE Vehicle Rolling AS IF IN Neutral IF THE Vehicle Operator Does NOT Apply THE Parking Brake.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Park Pawl Shaft Roll Pin. IF THE Roll PIN IS Damaged, Both THE Roll PIN and THE Park Pawl Shaft Will BE Replaced. IN Addition, Owners Will BE Reminded TO Fully Apply THE Parking Brake, IN Addition TO Placing THE Transmission IN Park.
Notes
System: Power Train; Transmission; Automatic. Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles and Mini-Vans Equipped With Ford Ax4s Automatic Transaxles. Note: Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin IN Mid-June 1996. Note: Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time, Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Structure:body:hood
Recall date
1997-10-20
Recall no.
97v180000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles and Mini Vans. Tearing OF THE Bond Between THE Inner and Outer Hood Panels During Minor Front END Collisions CAN Result IN A GAP AT THE Leading Edge OF THE Hood. AIR Forced Between THE Inner and Outer Panels CAN Produce Enough Pressure TO Force THE Outer Panel Upward.
Consequence
This Condition CAN Result IN Total Separation OF THE Outer Hood Panel.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Hood Area FOR ANY Damage Along THE Leading Edge OF THE Hood. IF There IS ANY Evidence OF Bond Separation, THE Hood Will BE Replaced. IF There IS NO Evidence OF Bond Separation, Additional Adhesive Will BE Applied Between THE Inner and Outer Hood Panels.
Notes
Owner Notification Began November 10, 1997. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date
1999-06-14
Recall no.
99v147000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Minivans. THE Brake Fluid Master Cylinder IS Recessed and Oriented IN THE Engine Compartment SO That THE Brake Fluid Warning Statement Embossed ON Both THE Top OF THE Filler CAP and THE Side OF THE Reservoir Body ARE NOT Entirely Visible BY Direct View. These Vehicles MAY NOT Fully Comply With Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 135, "passenger Car Brake Systems."
Consequence
Remedy
Owners Will BE Provided With NEW Labels and Installation Instructions.
Notes
Owner Notification Began June 16, 1999.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2000-06-19
Recall no.
00v168000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Mini Vans, Light Pickup Trucks, and Sport Utility Vehicles. OFF Lease Canadian Vehicles Equipped With Daytime Running Lights Which Meet Canadian Requirements and NOT THE Photometric Requirements OF Fmvss 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." According TO Ford, THE Vehicles Were Imported Into THE U.s. Erroneously.
Consequence
THE Light Given OFF From THE Daytime Running Lights IS Brighter Than Allowed BY U.s. Standards.
Remedy
Dealers Will BE Advised TO Deactivate THE Running Light Function and TO Complete ANY Outstanding Safety Recalls ON These Vehicles.
Notes
Owner Notification Began July 19, 2000. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs
Recall date
2001-07-12
Recall no.
01i007000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
This IS NOT A Safety Recall IN Accordance With THE Safety Act. However, IT IS Deemed A Safety Improvement Campaign BY THE Agency. Vehicle Description: 1995-1998 Ford Windstar Minivans. THE Front Coil Springs Could Potentially Fracture DUE TO Corrosion. Note: THE 1997-1998 Windstar Mini Vans ARE Also Covered BY Nhtsa Safety Recall 01v-199/Ford Recall 01s19. THE Mini Vans Covered BY THE Safety Recall Were Originally Sold IN or Currently Registered IN THE States OF Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin, and IN THE District OF Columbia.
Consequence
Some Tires Have Deflated DUE TO Contact With A Broken Spring.
Remedy
Ford IS Extending THE Warranty FOR Front Coil Spring Replacement TO A Total OF 10 Years OF Service From THE Warranty Start Date, With Unlimited Mileage. This Coverage IS Automatically Transferred TO Subsequent Owners AT NO Charge. IF Either Front Coil Spring Fractures During THE Coverage Period Noted Above, THE Dealer Will Replace Both Springs AT NO Charge TO THE Owner.
Notes
Ford HAS Decided TO Conduct A Service Campaign TO Extend THE Warranty Coverage FOR THE Front Coil Springs. Owners CAN Contact Ford At1-866-436-7332, Concerning This Program.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
2002-04-04
Recall no.
02v101000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Minivans Originally Sold IN or Currently Registered IN THE States OF Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and THE District OF Columbia. During Assembly, Some Brake Lines Were Installed IN A Twisted Position, Causing Contact With THE Dash Panel Insulator Above THE Catalytic Converter. This Contact Could Abrade THE Brake Line Corrosion Protection, Consequently, Salt or Water Absorbed IN THE Dash Panel Insulator Would Promote Corrosion. This Corrosion Could Ultimately Lead TO A Leak IN THE Brake Line.
Consequence
Leakage OF Brake Fluid Will Result IN Brake Light Activation. Extended Stopping Distance Could Also Result, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Brake Line FOR Corrosion and Clearance Conditions. A Brake Line That IS NOT Corroded Will BE Repositioned. A Brake Line That IS Corroded or Leaking Will BE Replaced With A Nylon Coated Brake Line and Secured Using Three Retaining Clips TO Assure Clearance From THE Insulator. Owner Notification Began MAY 10, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-866-436-7332.
Notes
Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Vehicle Speed Control
Recall date
2009-10-13
Recall no.
09v399000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Consequence
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.
Notes
Ford's Recall Campaign Number IS 09s09.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
1996 Ford Windstar Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1996 Ford Windstar Insurance
Insurance for a 1996 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 1996 Ford Windstar Compare to Other Van?
The 1996 Ford Windstar entered a competitive minivan segment dominated by rivals like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler minivans (Dodge Caravan, Plymouth Voyager). In terms of performance, the Windstar's V6 engines offered adequate power, often comparable to or exceeding the base engines of some competitors, providing decent acceleration. However, its ride and handling were often praised for being more car-like than some of its rivals, offering a comfortable experience. Feature-wise, the Windstar offered a reasonable array of amenities for its time, especially in higher trims, but competitors like the Odyssey and Sienna were beginning to set higher standards in terms of interior versatility and available technology. Reliability is where the Windstar often lagged behind its Japanese rivals. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, known for their bulletproof powertrains and robust build quality, generally offered superior long-term reliability and fewer common mechanical issues than the Windstar, particularly concerning its transmission and cooling system. Price-wise, the Windstar was often competitively priced against its segment rivals, sometimes offering a slightly lower entry point for a comparable level of space and features. However, the long-term cost of ownership could be higher due to its reliability concerns. Alternatives to Consider: For buyers prioritizing reliability and long-term durability above all else, the 1996 Toyota Sienna or 1996 Honda Odyssey would be significantly better choices, despite potentially higher used prices. They offer a more dependable ownership experience. If budget is the absolute primary concern and a minivan is a must, the Windstar could be a reasonable option if thoroughly inspected and its known issues are addressed, but it represents a trade-off in reliability for price. Other American rivals like the Chrysler minivans offered similar space and features but also had their own sets of common issues.
Final Verdict: Is the 1996 Ford Windstar a Good Van?
The 1996 Ford Windstar is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable minivan for occasional family transport. It's best suited for those who prioritize interior room and a comfortable ride over cutting-edge technology or long-term mechanical perfection. Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on its condition and price. If found in excellent mechanical shape with meticulous maintenance records, particularly addressing transmission and cooling system health, it could be a decent used purchase for a modest price (under $3,000). However, prospective buyers must be aware of its potential for costly repairs, especially concerning the transmission. It is generally not recommended for those who need a highly reliable, trouble-free vehicle. Buying new in 1996 was a reasonable option, but today, its value lies solely in the used market, and only if a thorough inspection reveals it to be in remarkably good condition.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.