10.0
really awful- Crashes / Fires:
- 3 / 2
- Injuries / Deaths:
- 0 / 0
- Average Mileage:
- 74,836 miles
About These NHTSA Complaints:
The NHTSA is the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints can be spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem. See the Back button — blue bar at the very top of the page — to explore more.
« Read the previous 20 complaints
Steering makes a groaning or rubbing type of noise when turning the steering wheel. Doesn't seem to have any impact on performance of the steering but is a god-awful noise and I don't know what it is!!! thanks!!
- Smithfield, VA, USA
Grinding noise when turning.
- Williamsburg, VA, USA
My 1999 Ford Windstar began to make loud grinding noises when the steering wheel was turned in either direction. I immediately took it to the dealershipwhere it was purchased. I was told that the rack and pump would have to be replaced. Replaced and the cost would be $1295. The vehicle has only 38,000 miles and has exceeded the three year warranty.
- Natick, MA, USA
Consumer stated that the power steering fluid constantly leaks diminishing ability to proper control vehcile while driving. Mechanic advised that the steering "shield" failed causing the fluid loss.
- Chantilly, VA, USA
Consumers notice a grinding noise coming from steering after making turns. Dealer has been contacted and notice a hose need to be replace.
- Stevens Point, WI, USA
While driving vehicle began to make a loud grinding sound that became worse as consumer was driving, consumer was informed by a mechanic that the steering could have been lost, however the steering did go out briefly in Dec and may, also the steering column was worked on Nov 16, but consumer was informed that the 2 problems were not related, also there was a popping noise around the windshield, which was determined to be pillar molding warped.
- Goshen, KY, USA
On two separate occasions steering momentarily locked up while driving. Feel free to provide any further information.
- Hamilton, OH, USA
When making a turn steering would make a real loud noise. Soon after that steering was very difficult to turn and noise continued. Contacted dealer, and dealer was not willing to do anything.
- Houston, TX, USA
Consumer has a few problems with vehicle & it has been to the dealer 4 times. The sliding door doesn't shut completely & the steering has a noise from the inside around the dashboard. Manufacturer is aware of the problem, but has no remedy.
- Gotha, FL, USA
Steering wheel was making noise while turning. Also, a clunking noise was coming from the engine. Dealer repaired problem under warranty.
- Knoxville, TN, USA
On the 21st of Dec 99, my wife was involved in an accident in our Windstar. This accident could have been avoided if the horn were useable. The way the horn button is now you will have a difficult time trying to find the exact spot to push to get the horn to sound. When time is critical in the outcome, searching for that exact spot isn't a player. This was the case on the 21st. When an individual tried to cross the highway he hit our van on the right side causing $6500 in damage. Prior to the impact she tried to hit the horn but could not find it when it was needed most. We are almost 100% positive that if she could have found the horn she could have sounded it, and the other driver would have seen her coming. Luckily my 18 month old and 5 yr old daughters were not with her at the time. Now I have a $30,000 minivan that will never be of any value again. Sure it will be fixed, but who would ever want a vehicle like that that has had extensive damage. I guess thats my loss though.
- Navarre, FL, USA
Consumer has been experiencing ongoing problems with following parts: 1. automatic transmission slipping in lower speed; 2. steering would make a popping noise only in wet conditions, and 3. starter woud grind when starting vehicle. Dealer/manufacturer notified.
- Red Oak, TX, USA
- Rockford, IL, USA