While driving our 2002 Ford Windstar at approximately 40 mph on route 22 in union, NJ, the rear axle broke in two. The vehicle started exhibiting some control problems with the rear end swaying prior to a loud bang followed by the vehicle dragging to a stop. The rear tires rubbed against the inside wheel wells producing odor and smoke at the vehicle came to a stop.

- Dunellen, NJ, USA

2002 Ford Windstar. While driving on thruway 390 in corning New York. I noticed a shank in back end of van and smelled rubber burning. While trying to exit off the thruway the tires completely blew out and locked up. At 65 M.P.H. pulled off to side of thruway and rear back axle was snapped in half. Had vehicle towed home and ordered new parts. I have all the old parts call Ford they never head of this happening.

- West Seneca, NY, USA

Our 2002 Ford Windstar SE on chrstmas night on our way home from in-laws the rear axle snapped in half, after searching online I found that this happened to 2 other people and feel this is a life threatening problem and Ford should make a recall on issue. Being this happened on a holiday we have to wait till Monday morning when our mechanic opens shop to find out what we are going to do. Also our insurance company was notified and is sending someone on Tuesday to appraise the damage. Here is the link to those people this happened to www.youtube.com/watch?V=sunu9D7ejmu this one even made the news. Thank you for taking your time to review this issue.

- Colonia, NJ, USA

While driving on the highway rear axle beam broke on Ford Windstar. No warning or car problem before incident. Rear axle replaced, old part available. No one hit us, we did not hit anyone, road was smooth.

- West Hartford, CT, USA

My 2002 Ford Windstar started riding really rough. The tires were checked and seemed to be fine. The back end of the van seemed to be riding very rough and my mechanic though it might be a strut issue. As it turns out, the rear axle broke completely in half while my father in law drove my two young children on the highway. What a scary experience. I've checked on the internet for similar experiences. Others have had this happen to them as well. This issue needs to be addressed by Ford and should be a recall issued.

- West Chester, OH, USA

: the contact stated while braking from 10 mph under normal conditions, the vehicle surged forward, almost going over a curb. The vehicle was taken to a service dealer, where the dealer was unable to duplicate the problem. The manufacturer was also notified. There was a squeaking noise when the sliding door was closed. The consumer complained of the transmission slipping, the dealer reprogrammed the PCM and re-filled the transmission fluid. The shifter was re-adjusted. The vehicle pulled to the right occasionally, the speedometer was inaccurate. The headlights would go dim at times. Updated 01/09/07.

- New Salem, PA, USA