New Owner of '99 Windstar SE with 3.8L

[Aysle]

As of a couple of hours ago I now own a 1999 Ford Windstar SE with the 3.8L engine. It has 109k miles on it as of now.

I've read the General Windstar Info sticky and will be working on reading all the top issues I can find over the next couple of days.

What would you suggest I check / verify / replace to get the most out of my Windstar? I want i to last atleast for 3 years without being a money pit.

So far it drives good. Starts quickly and isn't making any weird noises. AC/heat are great and all power options work.

I already know I need to flush the power steering (brownish/black color fluid).

Going to change the ATF fluid/filter because I don't know when it was last changed.

The radiator has Orange fluid in it. Should I flush and replace with yellow G-05 since that seems to be what is best? Or can I just leave it alone?

Considering replacing the plugs just because, and perhaps the wires as well... how would you evaluate the wires for age?

The door ajar light is stuck on, Ive tracked it down to the driver's side door. When the door is open the light goes out so it seems like the switch is reporting the opposite condition then it is in. When the door is closed it chimes like it would with any other door being opened. Any advice on how to diagnose/fix? I gave it a good pb blast bath tonight and 10 open/closes but that didnt help.

Going to do an oil change, 5w20 is the best to put in correct? Is there room for an extended length filter?

How can I verify all recal items have been performed? Will Ford still honor them with it at this age?
Thanks in advance

[GeoClark]

That is low mileage...
I would just change all fluids and lubricate - and drive on.
Spend money on parts only as needed.
My 1996 had 275000 km and only needed a starter, rear shocks, and ignition switch.
mechanics tell me to 'just drive it' and 'do not play with it'.
Darn fine automobile!

[12Ounce]

My '99 has over three times your mileage ... and it is still my daily ride! I don't know if the yellow/orange anti-freeze is so bad .... but I have replaced my reservoir (the old one got too hard to see through.) .... anyway, there was a label attached that indicated the yellow was not to be used ... and that the green was to be used. I would think the owner's manual would indicate the same.

If the cables are original ... they are probably due. I'm probably on my third or forth set.

[12Ounce]

I would follow the owner's manual for oil weight recommendations. I use nothing but MOBIL1 synthetic ... tend to use heavier oil in warmer weather. 0W-40, 0W-30 if available ... 5W-30, 10W-30 if not.

[Mustang_Driver]

I bought mine in august of last year it has 130000km or 80000 miles first thing i did was change all filters and fluids then the check engine light came on (P0171&P0174) i changed the isolator bolts and gaskets and valve cover and it seems to run fine now. as for an extended oil filter no it won't fit there is like an 1.5" between the end of the regular filter and sub frame. as for the fuel filter it was really easy it's under the driver's side door took about 10 mins to change (remember to release fuel pressure before you do it.spark plug wires might as well be changed at the time you do the plugs as they are right there anyways so better safe then sorry. i used 5w20 high mileage synthetic (Quaker State Defy).

Also the problem with the sliding door might be dirty contacts as i had a speaker that would cut out then i cleaned the contacts on the pillar and it works fine now just wipe the contacts and see it it helps.

Anyways Good Luck with the van this is my second one i had a 2000 and currently have a 2001. All i have left is to change the pressure switch under the master cylinder as mine is sweating and my cruise works intermittently