The 1998 Ford Windstar, part of the first generation of Ford's minivan lineup introduced in 1995, offered a spacious and versatile family hauler. Available as a passenger or cargo van, key trims included the base, GL, and GLS. Its popularity stemmed from its comfortable ride, generous interior space, and a relatively car-like driving experience for its class. It aimed to compete directly with established minivans.
The Good
The 1998 Windstar boasted a smooth, comfortable ride, a spacious cabin for family adventures, and decent practicality. Its value proposition was strong, offering a lot of interior room for the money, appealing to budget-conscious families seeking a capable people mover.
The Bad
Owners of the 1998 Ford Windstar should be aware of potential issues with transmission problems, particularly concerning overheating and shifting issues. Rust can also be a concern, especially in the rocker panels and wheel wells. Some reported electrical gremlins also warrant attention.
1998 Ford Windstar: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1998 Ford Windstar primarily came with two engine options:
- 3.0L Vulcan V6
- 3.8L Essex V6
- Horsepower:
- 3.0L V6: Approximately 150 horsepower
- 3.8L V6: Approximately 200 horsepower
- Fuel Economy:
- EPA estimates for the 1998 Windstar typically ranged from around 15-17 MPG city and 20-23 MPG highway, depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration.
- 0-60 Times:
- Detailed 0-60 mph times are not widely published for this specific model year, but generally, minivans of this era with the larger V6 engine could achieve it in the mid-to-high 9-second range.
- Towing Capacity:
- When properly equipped with the optional towing package, the 1998 Ford Windstar could tow up to approximately 2,000 lbs. This was sufficient for small utility trailers or recreational equipment.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Typically included standard safety features, power steering, and basic amenities.
- GL: Added features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a better sound system, and cruise control.
- GLS: The top trim usually offered premium features such as upgraded upholstery, alloy wheels, a rear-seat entertainment system (optional), automatic climate control, and a power driver's seat.
All trims benefited from a flexible seating arrangement and ample cargo space.
- Base: Typically included standard safety features, power steering, and basic amenities.
1998 Ford Windstar Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| 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 | 68.50 inches |
| Overall Length | 201.20 inches |
| Overall Width | 75.80 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) | $18,210 |
| Invoice Price | $16,560 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1998 Ford Windstar Have?
The 1998 Ford Windstar, like many vehicles from this era, is not without its reported issues. A prevalent concern among owners centers on the transmission. Specifically, the automatic transmission can be prone to overheating, leading to a loss of power, rough shifting, or complete failure. Some owners have reported a need for transmission fluid flushes or even rebuilds, particularly as mileage increases. This can be a significant and costly repair.
Another area of concern is the cooling system. Radiator leaks and thermostat issues have been noted, which can contribute to engine overheating and potentially more severe engine damage if not addressed promptly. The intake manifold gaskets are also a known weak point, leading to coolant leaks and potential engine misfires.
Body and structural issues are also occasionally reported. Rust can be a significant problem, especially in areas with harsh winters where salt is used on roads. Common rust areas include the rocker panels, wheel wells, and the undercarriage. This can compromise the vehicle's structural integrity over time and lead to expensive repairs.
Electrical issues are another common complaint, though they can be more sporadic. Owners have reported problems with the power door locks, window regulators, and the instrument cluster occasionally malfunctioning. The powertrain control module (PCM) has also been cited as a failure point in some instances.
While there haven't been widespread, universally recognized model-year specific recalls that dramatically alter the 1998 Windstar's reliability profile compared to its immediate peers, individual vehicles may have had specific recalls addressed. It's always advisable to check a vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls.
Overall, long-term reliability can be a mixed bag. With diligent maintenance, especially focusing on transmission fluid changes and keeping the cooling system in good order, some Windstars have achieved respectable mileage. However, the potential for expensive transmission repairs and rust issues means buyers should be prepared for potential ongoing maintenance costs.
Another area of concern is the cooling system. Radiator leaks and thermostat issues have been noted, which can contribute to engine overheating and potentially more severe engine damage if not addressed promptly. The intake manifold gaskets are also a known weak point, leading to coolant leaks and potential engine misfires.
Body and structural issues are also occasionally reported. Rust can be a significant problem, especially in areas with harsh winters where salt is used on roads. Common rust areas include the rocker panels, wheel wells, and the undercarriage. This can compromise the vehicle's structural integrity over time and lead to expensive repairs.
Electrical issues are another common complaint, though they can be more sporadic. Owners have reported problems with the power door locks, window regulators, and the instrument cluster occasionally malfunctioning. The powertrain control module (PCM) has also been cited as a failure point in some instances.
While there haven't been widespread, universally recognized model-year specific recalls that dramatically alter the 1998 Windstar's reliability profile compared to its immediate peers, individual vehicles may have had specific recalls addressed. It's always advisable to check a vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls.
Overall, long-term reliability can be a mixed bag. With diligent maintenance, especially focusing on transmission fluid changes and keeping the cooling system in good order, some Windstars have achieved respectable mileage. However, the potential for expensive transmission repairs and rust issues means buyers should be prepared for potential ongoing maintenance costs.
How long will the 1998 Ford Windstar last?
Based on owner data and maintenance records, the 1998 Ford Windstar can realistically be expected to serve for 150,000 to 200,000 miles if well-maintained. However, the key factor determining its longevity is the owner's commitment to proactive maintenance, particularly concerning the transmission and cooling system. Vehicles that have had regular fluid changes and timely repairs for minor issues tend to hold up better. Without this diligent care, weaknesses like transmission failure or significant rust can drastically shorten its useful service life, making it less durable over the long haul. Early attention to any warning signs is crucial for maximizing its lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Ford Windstar offered a functional, albeit basic, array of technology and safety features for its time. Standard equipment typically included power steering, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and airbags for the driver and front passenger. The design prioritized practicality and family transport, so advanced driver-assistance systems as we know them today were virtually nonexistent. Features like electronic traction control were sometimes optional on higher trims.
In terms of entertainment, base models usually came with a standard AM/FM radio. Higher trims, such as the GL and GLS, often featured improved stereo systems with cassette players and sometimes CD players. Optional features could include a premium sound system with more speakers for a richer audio experience. Some top-tier trims, particularly later in the model's run, might have offered an optional rear-seat entertainment system, often a VCR and a small screen, which was a significant feature for keeping younger passengers occupied on long journeys.
Comfort and convenience features were more prevalent. Power windows and door locks were standard on mid-to-upper trims, as was air conditioning. Cruise control was also a common inclusion. The modular seating system allowed for various configurations, enhancing cargo and passenger versatility.
Crash-test ratings for the 1998 Ford Windstar from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) provided a measure of its safety performance. The Windstar generally performed adequately for its class and era. NHTSA awarded it four out of five stars for frontal driver and passenger crash protection. Side impact ratings were also generally in the good to acceptable range, but it's important to note that testing protocols and safety expectations have evolved significantly since 1998. While it met the safety standards of its time, it would not compare to the safety technology found in modern vehicles.
In terms of entertainment, base models usually came with a standard AM/FM radio. Higher trims, such as the GL and GLS, often featured improved stereo systems with cassette players and sometimes CD players. Optional features could include a premium sound system with more speakers for a richer audio experience. Some top-tier trims, particularly later in the model's run, might have offered an optional rear-seat entertainment system, often a VCR and a small screen, which was a significant feature for keeping younger passengers occupied on long journeys.
Comfort and convenience features were more prevalent. Power windows and door locks were standard on mid-to-upper trims, as was air conditioning. Cruise control was also a common inclusion. The modular seating system allowed for various configurations, enhancing cargo and passenger versatility.
Crash-test ratings for the 1998 Ford Windstar from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) provided a measure of its safety performance. The Windstar generally performed adequately for its class and era. NHTSA awarded it four out of five stars for frontal driver and passenger crash protection. Side impact ratings were also generally in the good to acceptable range, but it's important to note that testing protocols and safety expectations have evolved significantly since 1998. While it met the safety standards of its time, it would not compare to the safety technology found in modern vehicles.
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.
1998 Ford Windstar Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Ford Windstar carried a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) that typically ranged from approximately $20,000 for a base model to over $28,000 for a well-equipped GLS trim. Like most vehicles, the Windstar experienced significant depreciation in its early years. Today, used market prices for a 1998 Ford Windstar are generally quite low, often ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, heavily dependent on condition, mileage, and trim level. Factors severely affecting its resale value include known mechanical issues, particularly transmission problems, rust damage, and overall wear and tear. A well-maintained example with lower mileage might fetch a slightly higher price, but it remains a budget-friendly used vehicle.
1998 Ford Windstar Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1998 Ford Windstar can be economical in terms of initial purchase price and relatively affordable insurance premiums due to its age and market value. Fuel costs are moderate, with V6 engines consuming a fair amount of gasoline, typically in the 15-23 MPG range. However, long-term ownership costs can escalate due to potential repair expenses. Known issues like transmission problems and rust can lead to significant repair bills. Routine maintenance is standard for a vehicle of its age. Overall, while the upfront and insurance costs are low, the potential for costly repairs makes its long-term ownership potentially more expensive than initially perceived, especially if unexpected major issues arise.
1998 Ford Windstar Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
20.00 gallons
City Mileage
17 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
24 miles/gallon
1998 Ford Windstar Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1998 Ford Windstar Recalls & Defects
Suspension:rear:axle:non-Powered Axle Assembly
Recall date
2010-08-26
Recall no.
10v385000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Consequence
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.
Notes
Ford's Recall NO. IS 10s13.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> .
Power Train:axle Assembly
Recall date
2012-05-03
Recall no.
12v193000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Consequence
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.
Notes
Ford's Recall Campaign Number IS 10s13.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:rear:axle:non-Powered Axle Assembly
Recall date
2012-05-03
Recall no.
12v195000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Consequence
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.
Notes
Ford's Safety Recall Campaign Number IS 12s30.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:rear:axle:non-Powered Axle Assembly
Recall date
2015-09-29
Recall no.
15v608000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Consequence
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.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date
1997-06-09
Recall no.
97v097000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Equipped With Ax4s Automatic Transaxles. THE Low/Intermediate Servo Cover CAN Separate From THE Transaxle While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven. IF This Occurs, Transmission Fluid Will Leak Contacting THE Catalytic Converter.
Consequence
THE Catalytic Converter Temperature MAY BE HOT Enough TO Ignite THE Transmission Fluid and Cause A Vehicle Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Transmission and Replace These Servo Covers.
Notes
Owner Notification:owner Notification Began June 30, 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.
Steering:gear Box:shaft Sector
Recall date
1997-09-30
Recall no.
97v165000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles and Mini-Vans. THE Rack and Pinion Steering Gears MAY Have Damaged Input Shaft Bearings.
Consequence
This Condition CAN Increase Steering Efforts, Affecting Steering Control.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Date Code ON THE Rack and Pinion Steering Gear, And, IF Necessary, Replace Those Rack and Pinion Assemblies That Fall Within THE Suspect Date Code Range. THE Date Codes FOR Windstar Model Vehicles ARE 97jb09 or 97jc08; THE Date Codes FOR Mustang Model Vehicles ARE 97j09b or 97j08b.
Notes
Owner Notification Began September 23, 1997.dealers Were Advised TO Stop Sale OF These Vehicles Until Inspections Could BE Performed and Were TO Directly Contact Owners OF ANY Vehicles That Have Been Delivered. 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.
Child Seat
Recall date
1997-04-01
Recall no.
97v051000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Minivan Equipped With Second ROW Bench Seats With Optional Integrated Child Seat (Ics). THE Headrest Lockout Mechanism ON THE Seats MAY NOT Engage and Lock THE Headrests IN THE "down" Position, AS Intended, When THE ICS IS Deployed. A Vehicle Occupant Could Move THE Headrest TO THE "up" Position.
Consequence
AS A Result OF THE Headrest Being IN THE "up" Position, A Child Seated IN THE ICS Would Receive Less Than THE Intended Protection IN THE Child Head Area IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Remedy
THE Second ROW Bench Seats Have Been Replaced With Seats Built With Revised Headrest Lockout Mechanisms.
Notes
Owner Notification:all Owners Have Been Notified and THE Seats Have Been Replaced IN THE Affected Vehicles.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:caliper
Recall date
1998-07-30
Recall no.
98i003000
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. Mini Vans Sold During THE Months OF December 1996, and January, February and MAY 1997. Front Brake Caliper Anchor Plate TO HUB and Spindle Assembly Bolts MAY BE Loose AS A Result OF AN Incomplete Tightening Operation AT THE Assembly Plant.
Consequence
When THE Bolts ARE Loose, A Noticeable Noise And/Or Vibration IS Evident Which Provides Warning TO THE Vehicle Driver. Vehicle Braking IS NOT Degraded.
Remedy
Dealers Will Tighten THE Front Brake Calpier Anchor Plate Bolts. Owners CAN Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.
Notes
Ford HAS Decided TO Conduct AN Owner Notification Program That Provides FOR THE Tightening OF THE Bolts ON THE Front Brake Caliper Anchor Plate TO HUB and Spindle Assembly.
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).
Structure:body
Recall date
1999-06-02
Recall no.
99i001000
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: Minivans. THE Overhead Console Rear Retaining Bracket CAN Develop Cracks and Separate, Allowing THE Overhead Console TO Become Loose and Possibly Fall Down.
Consequence
IF THE Console Does Fall Down, IT Could Distract THE Driver or Possibly Strike A Front Seat Occupant.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Redesigned Retaining Bracket IN THE Same Location AS THE Original Retaining Bracket.
Notes
Ford HAS Decided TO Conduct A Service Program TO Replace THE Overhead Console Retaining Bracket.owners CAN Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673, Concerning This Program.
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
2001-06-18
Recall no.
01v199000
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, and Wisconsin, and IN THE District OF Columbia. THE Front Coil Springs Could Fracture AS A Result OF Corrosion. Depending ON THE Location OF THE Fracture, A Broken Spring Could Move Past THE Spring Seat and Contact A Front Tire.
Consequence
Some Tires Have Deflated DUE TO Contact With A Broken Spring.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install Protective Shields Around THE Front Coil Springs. Owner Notification Began September 6, 2001. 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.
Notes
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.
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> .
1998 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
1998 Ford Windstar Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 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 1998 Ford Windstar Compare to Other Van?
The 1998 Ford Windstar competed in a crowded minivan segment dominated by rivals such as the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler minivans (Dodge Grand Caravan, Plymouth Voyager). In terms of performance, the Windstar's available 3.8L V6 offered decent power, often exceeding the base engines found in some competitors, providing a more robust feel when accelerating or carrying a full load. However, its handling was generally considered less refined and more truck-like compared to the more car-like dynamics of the Odyssey and Sienna.
Features were a strong point for American minivans, and the Windstar offered a good range for its price, especially in GL and GLS trims, often including power amenities and optional entertainment systems. The Japanese rivals, particularly Toyota and Honda, were often lauded for their build quality and interior ergonomics, though sometimes at a higher price point.
Reliability is where the Windstar often fell short compared to its Japanese counterparts. While the Odyssey and Sienna developed reputations for exceptional long-term reliability, the Windstar was more prone to issues, most notably transmission problems and corrosion. This is a significant factor that buyers considered and continues to be a concern for used examples.
Price-wise, the Windstar typically offered a competitive purchase price, often undercutting similar trims of the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna when new, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families. This value proposition extended to the used market, where Windstars are generally cheaper.
Alternatives:
For those prioritizing reliability above all else, the 1998 Toyota Sienna and 1998 Honda Odyssey are superior choices, despite potentially higher used prices. They offer more dependable powertrains and better overall build quality. If a balance of space, features, and reasonable reliability is desired, and transmission issues are addressed, a well-maintained Windstar can still serve its purpose. However, for a similar price point with potentially better long-term prospects, exploring other used American minivans like the Dodge Grand Caravan or Plymouth Voyager might also be considered, though they share some similar reliability concerns with the Windstar.
Features were a strong point for American minivans, and the Windstar offered a good range for its price, especially in GL and GLS trims, often including power amenities and optional entertainment systems. The Japanese rivals, particularly Toyota and Honda, were often lauded for their build quality and interior ergonomics, though sometimes at a higher price point.
Reliability is where the Windstar often fell short compared to its Japanese counterparts. While the Odyssey and Sienna developed reputations for exceptional long-term reliability, the Windstar was more prone to issues, most notably transmission problems and corrosion. This is a significant factor that buyers considered and continues to be a concern for used examples.
Price-wise, the Windstar typically offered a competitive purchase price, often undercutting similar trims of the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna when new, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families. This value proposition extended to the used market, where Windstars are generally cheaper.
Alternatives:
For those prioritizing reliability above all else, the 1998 Toyota Sienna and 1998 Honda Odyssey are superior choices, despite potentially higher used prices. They offer more dependable powertrains and better overall build quality. If a balance of space, features, and reasonable reliability is desired, and transmission issues are addressed, a well-maintained Windstar can still serve its purpose. However, for a similar price point with potentially better long-term prospects, exploring other used American minivans like the Dodge Grand Caravan or Plymouth Voyager might also be considered, though they share some similar reliability concerns with the Windstar.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Ford Windstar a Good Van?
The 1998 Ford Windstar is ideal for budget-conscious families seeking maximum interior space and practicality for the lowest possible price. It's best suited for buyers who understand its potential mechanical quirks and are prepared for proactive maintenance, especially concerning the transmission and cooling system. Purchasing a used Windstar can be worthwhile if it has a verifiable history of consistent maintenance, lower mileage, and minimal rust. Higher trims like the GLS offer more amenities. It is generally not recommended for those prioritizing long-term, worry-free reliability or expecting modern automotive technology. For its intended purpose as an affordable, spacious hauler, it can be a decent buy if acquired with caution and a clear understanding of its limitations.
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.