Yet, Another Problem to Add to the list!

Okay, let's just keep adding to the problems I have with my 98 Windstar!

This morning when I started the car I heard a strange noise. It was, best as I can describe, a sound that reminded me of putting the car in to reverse, yet, I had just turned on the car and it was still in park! It was pretty loud actually.

Let's not mention that the car got stuck in the intersection while in Drive today. Usually (yes, it's happened before and has become more frequent) it will "jump" forward back in to drive, but no, not today - had to try all different gears - finally got it to go again.

So, here we have it, my latest list of Windstar issues - thinking of buying a Windstar, think again!!!!

*Transmission troubles -seems to kick out of D whenever it pleases (replaced with a used on in 8/03)
*Coolant appears to be dirty after flushing - like Tranny fluid invading the reserve
*CEL light on all the time - appears to be from a chipped fuel filler pipe
*ABS/Brake Light on all the time-sensor shot from what I was told
*Back driver side window won't open
*Interior overhead lights won't come on when you open the door, but do work (go figure)
*One of the fuses (I think for the ABS) broken and shorts when you try to replace it
*New lovely sound


Geez, I'm sure I must be forgetting something! Soon I'll need more than 2 hands to count the problems - thank goodness I wear sandals!

Geez, how could I forget the drivers side view mirror - will go left, will go up and down, but won't move right - go figure!

One finger to go then it's to the toes to keep count!

My mind is starting to kick in - least I forget the CRUISE CONTROL doesn't work either!

There's my 10!

Can anyone top that?

Let's see,

Same list as above, without the transmission problems, however...

a) lost an IMRC (replacing at time of posting
2) lost the PCV (already replaced)
C) lost the IAC (already replaced)
4) inside lights tend to stay on at random times even though the doors are closed...very infrequent.

Gotta love Fords...no, really...

Trons
"if at first you don't succeed, don't try skydiving."

edited for minor errors

WOW! Maybe our Windstars are fraternal twins!

Well, mechanic looked at it last night (neighbor), he hooked it up to the computer - has more problems than I thought. His suggestion - give it a nice send-off and go get a new car.

Now, what to buy??? Thinking about a small SUV???

You may want to fix a couple of inexpensive things before you try to sell it.

Is your front cigar lighter dead? If so, based on a couple of other things you have listed... I'm going to guess that the "cruise control cut-out switch" is bad.

This switch is located on the bottom of the brake master cylinder.

Was told since my ABS/Brakes aren't working, cruise control won't work either.

I think I'm going to buy a Hyundai Santa Fe-reviews seem to be good. I've had enough Ford problems, it's definitely earning the reputation of FIX OR REPAIR DAILY and if I don't do it, it will be FOUND ON the ROAD DEAD! Won't be putting any more $$$ in to Old Betsy!

Oh, nope, front lighter works like a charm - never used for cigs, but sure charges up my cell phone!

I completely forgot about the cig lighter. I've heard that the ABS/Cruise control is due to a speed sensor on the rear wheels. Since I've been working on the intake problem, I haven't worried about it. It doesn't cause a problem with driving, jst make sure you leave plenty of room for breaking. That's next weeks project.

I've thought about getting rid of mine, but I've decided to keep it and repair it. After I get it running right I can get rid of it then and I won't have to explain to the new owner about the problems and "how easy they are to fix".

Personally, if I was going small SUV, I would go with a Honda. Nobody, and I mean nobody does vehicles like Honda. I have a toyota truck I wouldn't trade for the world, but Honda is where it's at...

Trons
"You can't call it 'Common Sense' because it's not all that common."

OK< first of all Honda does not know how to build a vehicle, especially if you live where there is snow. Anybodu know what Honda stands for????? Had One Never Did Again. And I work for a Honda dealership. If you are looking for a small Suv I would suggest the Subaru Forrester. If you are lloking for something taller I suggest Chevrolet Equinox. The Suzuki Grand Vitara is also a very nice choice especially when you get a 7year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty with no deductables that is fully transferable with no fee.



Craig
"Suzuki: Make The Smart Move"