Traction control problems

I have an 03 Limited with traction control. Since about 4 mos. after leasing, the "Trac Active" light comes on when conditions do not warrant it. Usually I am driving on a straight road, it is dry (usually sun shining). It also makes an ungodly sound, sort of like a spoon caught in the garbage disposal. It only lasts a few seconds and is not recorded on whatever chip they say it should. There seems to be no rhyme or reason for it, no pattern that I can see. The traction control works fine when it is supposed to. I have had it in to the dealer at least 15 times. The service advisor has called Ford and they have never heard of this problem. They have reset the speed threshold, changed sensors on the wheels and other assorted things, but so far nothing has worked. Of course, I am the only driver of the van and they can't get it to happen when they have it. I am beginning to feel like I am imagining it. The only good thing is it is a lease and has less than a year left. This is my 4th Windstar and I have been happy with all of the others.
Has anyone heard of this problem? Any input would be appreciated, if only for my sanity.
Robin

"Leasing" causes a number of folks anxiety. Though I'm not currently leasing, I was always happy with the many leases that I've had before... it just has to be managed properly.

If you intend to lease a Freestar or Mercury Monterey for your next vehicle, perhaps you can make a early swap and get out of the current Windstar with no penalties. It may be worth investigating.

I believe the Ford Truck Division is pretty eager to get some new units out the door.

... also:

Since there is a "corporate connection", you may want to check out leasing a Volvo XC90. The rates are surprisingly affordable on some of the Volvo packages because the resale value of the XC90 is so high. And they would have the means to take your current leased unit early.... I think.

Does the sound happen at the exact same time the light comes on?
Can you pinpoint where the sound is coming from?
Things to try:
Clean the wheel speed sensors
Check and clean all sensor electrical connections
Check and clean wiring going to master cylinder.
Top up brake fluid.
If nothing helps you may need a reflash or a control module, as there is an old TSB (98-15-19?)out for this, according to the link.

Check out this info as well:

http://www.cartrackers.com/Forums/live/fordwindstar/1966.html

HEYYYYYY!!! The TRAC control problem is happening to me, too!! So, I am NOT nuts? I, too have a 2003 Limited. I am also the only driver, for the most part, and have had it into the dealer multiple times. The transmission had to be replaced already (at 12000 miles) Currently have 16000 miles. Luckily, my husband drove it this morning and the TRAC light came on (sunny conditions, straight road), complete with grinding noises and all. I have owned plenty of Fords, but this one seems to be a bit of a problem. Hmmm....

Well, I am glad I can tell the service advisor that there is someone else with this issue. Did it happen before you had the transmission replaced? My biggest fear is that the horrible noise is actually the transmission.
I am jealous that you have had a witness! My problem is still a phantom to all who know me!
Robin

It's in the shop right now. (Capital Ford of Wilmington, NC) I think they are doing all they can do. But, if the problem doesn't show up on their computers... it's tough. At least now you can tell your dealer you aren't alone (or crazy!) And, yes, the problem did occur before the transmission was replaced. Oddly enough, it is happening again now. Another weird problem I have, is my interior lights come on at any time (while I drive). My kids think the car is alive (I wonder that, too, haha)

This is our 4th or 5th Windstar and they all had the lights come on mysteriously.
Please let me know if they can find anything. I really doubt that they will figure out what is going on with mine. Only 11 months now til turn in!

I haven't heard back from them yet. But, as soon as I know something, I will let you know!

On my windstar I have a Green lumination light when "Traction Conrtol is Active" and Orange/Amber Lumination that says "Trac control off"? Is yours the same? Is it flashing? Do you have a Traction Control Switch? Let me know I may have the answer. Is your ABS light Luminated also?

I never noticed whether the trac control off light comes on at the same time or whether it flashed. I do have a switch to turn off the trac control. I haven't had a problem with the ABS. Any help would be appreciated!

I never noticed whether the trac control off light comes on at the same time or whether it flashed. I do have a switch to turn off the trac control. I haven't had a problem with the ABS. Any help would be appreciated!

Make sure your switch in on....I have read that a steady traction off light may mean trouble with a positioning sensor. Have your camshaft and crankshaft positioning sensors checked. A flashing trac off light maybe a problem with a Front Wheel sensor. A combination traction and abs lights will indicate a problem with the Vehicle Speed Sensor both ABS and Traction Control uses this sensor ..............or bad front and/or rear wheel sensor. Unfourtunatly there are few OBD II 's that will pull the code from the PCM. Could take it to FORD to get the code. I hope I was helpful .... GLuck PS...If you could get your traction control active at all by a quick acceleration on dirt, loose gravel, or ice and It lumintes you may want to lean towards having the VSS checked. You should have a seperate green lumintaion light when "Traction Control is Active", ofcourse this is if your light doest come on until you drive above 25 mph after first getting in your van. VM

I finally have my van back. The interior light problem has been solved (hopefully). A pinched wire was located and fixed in the headliner. The entire headliner was removed and the wire was replaced. As far as the TRAC problem... same ol same ol.... Nothing showed up on their computer tests. The "TRAC ACTIVE" light comes on only when the malfunction occurs. I can manually turn the TRAC OFF by pressing a button, however, it remains "on" or "ready" unless I do this. Please let me know if you find anything out! I am considering returning the van to Ford if this continues. It'd be a shame, it's a nice van.

I know I'm repeating myself, but I think you should try to trade this unit in while the Traction Control problem is still "off the radar". If the dealership is claiming they can't detect it .... they can't very well ask you to pay for repairs at trade-time. Once it gets worse and is obvious to everyone .... guess who has to pay for repairs.

I'd quit mentioning it and see what new unit the dealer wants to give you a deal on.