Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2002 Ford Windstar
The 2002 Ford Windstar has known issues primarily with suspension, brakes, and the electrical system, supported by 9 recall campaigns and 1,353 owner complaints. Key issues focus on the rear axle, brakes, and electrical components. While some concerns are significant, the evidence suggests ongoing maintenance is crucial for this aging vehicle. Be prepared to inspect thoroughly due to the high number of complaints and recalls.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2002 Ford Windstar has 9 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,353 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #15V608000 Axle Recall Remedy may been Performed Improperly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V193000 REAR AXLE CRACKING-VIRGINIA VEHICLES NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V195000 REAR AXLE CRACKING PUERTO RICO NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V194000 CORROSION FRACTURES OF FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #11V030000 CORROSION FRACTURES OF FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #10V385000 REAR AXLE CRACKING NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09V399000 SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH/OVERHEATS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06E056000 FUEL LEAK/FIRE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #03V459000 FORD/FMVSS 225/FLOOR TO SEAT LATCH NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 324 complaints
- Suspension 279 complaints
- Electrical System 261 complaints
- Service Brakes 233 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 147 complaints
- Structure 101 complaints
Of the 1,353 complaints on file, 45 report a crash and 48 a fire; across all 1,353 complaints, owners report 53 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Rear axle may crack
How to check: Inspect the rear axle for signs of corrosion or cracks.
Frequent brake problems reported
How to check: Check brake pads and rotors for wear, listen for noises.
Electrical system malfunctions
How to check: Test all electrical functions, especially lights and indicators.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Loud knocking or grinding noises.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check that dashboard warning lights turn off.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights.
- 03
Low-speed braking
What to check: Feel for smooth braking and no noise.
Red flag: Pulsation or grinding in brakes.
- 04
Straight road driving
What to check: Listen for suspension issues or creaks.
Red flag: Loud creaks or clunks.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth acceleration without hesitation.
Red flag: Hesitation or stalling.
- 06
Turning corners
What to check: Feel for smooth steering and no vibrations.
Red flag: Shaking or loose steering.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the rear axle ever been repaired?
- Are there any current electrical issues?
- Have the brake pads been recently replaced?
- Has the vehicle had any suspension work done?
- Were any recall repairs performed?
- Is the vehicle regularly serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recent maintenance records
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Previous inspection reports
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2002 Ford Windstar at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2002 Ford Windstar? Check the actual car
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