1997 Ford Windstar engine problems
Owners reported engine problems in 38 complaints for the 1997 Ford Windstar, 15% of the complaints on file. It is the 2nd most reported problem area for this model year.
At a glance
- Complaints
- 38 15% of this year's complaints
- Typical mileage
- 77,000 miles 17 complaints with mileage
- Crashes and fires
- 0 and 2
- Injuries and deaths
- 0 and 0
Source: NHTSA owner complaints
When engine problems show up
View the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 0k to 20k miles | 0 |
| 20k to 40k miles | 1 |
| 40k to 60k miles | 2 |
| 60k to 80k miles | 6 |
| 80k to 100k miles | 6 |
| 100k to 120k miles | 1 |
| 120k to 140k miles | 1 |
| 140k to 160k miles | 0 |
| 160k to 180k miles | 0 |
| 180k to 200k miles | 0 |
| 200k+ miles | 0 |
What the data shows
Of the 17 engine complaints that report mileage, the median is about 77,000 miles, and 18% were reported before 60,000 miles.
These complaints mention 2 fires.
What owners wrote
Failed head gasket LED to a piston rod shooting through the oil pan. Very dangerous for the cars behind me as oil was shooting over the highway. Slippery for cars following, and went on other cars paint and windshields. Head gaskets were recalled in previous 3 years of vehicles 1993-96 ford windstars, 1997 was not on a recall even though the problem was never correctly fixed. Highly dangerous and highly irresponsible of the automaker to not include additional cars in the recall effort.
Dt: the contact states has been having several problems with vehicle since 2002. On april 28, 2004 the speedometer was not providing an accurate speed reading. On december 9, 2004 the sliding door would not unlock or slide properly. The dealer replaced the door lock actuator and determined that the slide wheels were dry. The dealership replaced the door latch, and now it needed replacement again.
Other problems reported for the 1997 Ford Windstar
- Suspension 39 complaints
- Brakes 32 complaints
- Drivetrain & axles 25 complaints
- Transmission 22 complaints
- Cruise control 21 complaints