Transmission problems occur when your vehicles cannot seem to move forward, despite your efforts to put them into gear.
If not treated timely, this hindrance can lead to poor acceleration, weird noises emitted from the engine, higher chances of having an accident, and permanent damage to the transmission.
In today’s article, we are looking at a particular item from Ford Motor Company – the Ford Windstar.
If you do not want your beloved truck to end up at a random wrecking yard, make sure to follow through with these tips and tricks on how to solve Ford Windstar transmission problems.
What Are Ford Windstar Transmission Problems?
Ford Windstar was first introduced in 1994, and it became a popular multi-passenger van designed for family use.
While the manufacturers did their best to warranty the Ford Windstar reliability, its technology is not at all flawless.
With two outdated transmission models, including the AX4S and the 4F50N, issues are bound to happen. Below are the five most common scenarios that you might encounter with this product.
- Faulty torque converter: A torque converter is a bridge between the main power source and the driven load of a car. When functioning properly, a torque converter allows the fluid to travel and revolve the rotating power for a smooth driving experience.
However, the Ford Windstar transmission fluid can sometimes disengage from the torque converter clutch. Subsequently, the car suffers from poor navigation and slower speed.
- Fluid leakage: Transmission models AX5S and 4F50N are notorious for frequent fluid leakage.
When the fluid bursts out from the main control area, the internal parts lack the necessary lubrication.
Soon, you will notice a deterioration in the quality of various details, as well as a total transmission failure should the leak be overlooked.
- Faulty park pawl shaft: The park pawl shaft is responsible for locking the gears and keeping the car static when you park it.
When doing a Ford Windstar transmission troubleshooting, many people have come to the realization that the shaft is prone to damage during installation.
This is when the roll pin used to hold the shaft fails to line up. Consequently, the entire parking system is compromised.
Even when you have already put your car in Park mode, any human activities like pushing or leaning against the car can make it move within seconds.
That is not to mention other external factors like the weather conditions, sudden obstacles on the ground, other transport vehicles, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the consequences of driving a Ford Windstar with transmission problems?
As stated above, transmission problems can wreak havoc on both the car’s drivability and the driver’s safety.
If anything goes wrong with the transmission process, you are less likely to start, accelerate, slow down, and park your vehicle properly.
Hence, accidents are more inclined to happen on the road since you are not 100% in control of the car.
Not only are they detrimental to yourself, but they can also pose a threat to others you may drive past.
For example, let’s imagine a collision between a Ford Windstar and a series of motor vehicles simply because the engine jerks forward when you try to increase the speed gradually. How disastrous it would be, right?
2. What is the Ford Windstar engine replacement cost?
There is no definitive number on how much replacing your Ford Windstar engine will be, as each item ranges from a few dollars to more than a thousand.
If you want an estimated number, check out with your local mechanic and let them examine your vehicle.
Then, they will offer professional opinions on which gear to replace and which to keep, alongside the overall expense.
But bear in mind that for a complete overhaul, you must prepare at least 2000$.
3. What is the recall on 2002 Ford Windstar?
A recall refers to the breach of minimum safety standards of any vehicle authorized by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the original manufacturers.
Recalls tend to be covered by the insurance company, as they are classified as unreasonable and/or unexpected failure.
When it comes to the 2002 Ford Windstar, common recalls include stalling tendencies, loud noises when starting, and failure to shift into the 4th gear.
If you spot any of these, contact the manufacturers right away for a solution.
4. How often do you need to replace the transmission of a Ford Windstar?
Most experts recommend you buy a new transmission model once the car exceeds the threshold of 200000 km.
However, there have been reports about Ford Windstars being able to hold up even after it drives for more than 300000 km. Vice versa, some vehicles are in dire need of a new transmission every 100000 km.
This is because the exact replacement window depends on various factors, such as your maintenance, the road’s conditions, the original quality, etc.
Therefore, it is better that you keep track of how your Ford Windstar goes for timely treatment.
5. How can you tell if your Ford Windstar is having transmission problems?
Usually, the transmission warning lights will flash to alert drivers of any hidden issues.
But you can always find out by observing how the engine sounds, how fast it shifts from one gear to another, whether the acceleration works smoothly, whether the parking ground is dry without any leakage, etc. All it takes is being meticulous and paying attention.
Conclusion
Spotting the Ford Windstar transmission problems is challenging, as the vehicle is no longer in circulation and the information is scattered.
But rest assured that with this comprehensive guide, you will no longer have to worry about fixing your car.
Make sure to forward the article to any other fellow Ford Windstar owners and see what they have to offer !