Thoughts on Windstar

[focusyn]

I am possibly looking to buy a used Windstar, around 1999-2001. What should I look for in these vans that has been problematic?

I drove a lot of Windstars( and Chrysler vans) when I worked for a car rental company. But I've never owned one and like to know how they hold up. And what to look out for.

Average fuel mileage helps too, if you can.

Thanks in advance for any help.

[lewisnc100]

If possible get the 2001 over the 99-2000, tranny was upgraded from AX4S to AX4N.

[DRW1000]

Be prepeared for the Isolator bolt problem and the DPFE. Both are relatively simple fixes and not too costly if you do the work yourself but will more than likely show their faces.

Another weakspot is the transimssions. Someone mentioned that they upgraded them.

I would look for a vehicle that has had regualr fluid changes. THis is almost impossible to know or find out but perhaps you will have to go with a gut feel here.

Perhaps 20 MPG is what I get.

[BCMedic]

I say this to all my friends and relatives, it doesn't matter if it's Ford/Dodge/ect... but make sure...100%.. that you get a 100 or 200 (or more) point inspection done by a reputable shop. It will well be worth the 100 bucks, or less it costs and you should get a complete printout of the inspection.
Another thing I did when I was looking at my 97 Windstar was to pull the transmission dipstick after a long testdrive and it was light clean red and smelled sweet, almost like a new smell. Granted the dealer could of just changed it, but it's good to check it. Also when it's cool, remove the rad cap and overflow bottle and check inside with a flashlight looking for any crud or sludge.
I also pulled the brake fluid and power steering caps and checked the color and condition of the fluid.
Above all else I heartily recommend you purchase an extended powertrain warranty with seal coverage as the best 3-4 hundred bucks you will ever spend "if" the trans or engine ect. needs a few thousand in repairs down the road.
Peace of Mind!
Edit:
It doesn't hurt also to take the VIN down to your local friendly dealer and run an Oasis check on warranty work, open recalls ect. Oh and don't forget a lien check!

[garync1]

Well for the price used you can't beat them. I paid 9,000 for mine its a 2001 but it in Great shape tell every thing stop working. 1 both passangers side windows went out 2.TSB issue 3 blend door.4 heatand AC controls in rear don't work. It runds Great though fix a small PCV valve problem and the engine light has not came on yet.I did fix the trnny problem and the power steering problem fuel millage went back up to 27 mpg on HW. THANK GOD.I think we get around 20 or so in the city.
But not too make the other guys mad I think I will try for a Honda or toyota mini van if I get a good deal on one.They are just so hard to find.Used. My friend got one for 20 grand used with 22,000 miles. Kinda high to me but the norm. I do like the way the winstar drives Just the problems keep adding up.

[rodeo02]

As stated by lewisnc- definately go with a 2001+. Try to keep it as basic as possible, with no rear HVAC, power doors, self leveling suspention, etc. These are the items that you WILL have problems with as the van ages. I love my basic 2001 LX. It's BIG, the most versitile vehicle I've ever owned, and pretty good on gas. So far so good @ 49K miles. Nothing but fluilds, filters, tires & brakes! They are also a good buy used.
G/luck
Joel

[mden6]

Watch for problem with cruise control deactivator / brake fluid leaks into switch and shorts out. Similar to ford's recall on F-150