anybody have their Windstar's rear axle or subframe mounts to break/fail AFTER the recall repair parts were installed?

I have a 02 windstar and had the recall done 2 months ago. The dealer called me before installing the new parts and told me that my subframes were in good order , not rusty , solid. He told me , we gonna do the recall as per Ford's standard without any problem. I have took a look at what they have done : they added few brackets and mounts at many places, and I could say that this recall is very well done !! All the parts are fitting like a glove over the existing parts and are quite beefy. Nice job Ford !!! very well done ! not a cheap fix at all , this kit is really made for Windstar. It is quite pleasant to know of a good fix , even if all the original parts were ok , and without rust or damage. I can trust my van !!!! They have done it on the front and the rear subframe and chassis. I can say that these new parts are better and beefer, and sure they will doing their job (for many years). They just add some more weight to the overweight Windstar :-)

The subframe on my '01 Windstar appears to be corroded..... and it was "repaired" by Ford in 2011. Ford will not cooperate with me.... just stating repair has already been done. If Ford deemed this repairable a year ago, I feel as though their repair could very well have contributed to the problem.... please visit my blog at www.windstar-owner.blogspot.com for more pics

On my 2000 Ford Windstar with 147,122 miles on it, (currently has 159,294 miles), I had the rear axle repaired as requested by the recall on Oct. 27,2011. On Jan 20, 2013 the axle rotted thru on the driver's side ,inside of the clamp they put on, and broke in two. The break ac-cured just inside of the end of the clamp nearest the wheel, in fact rust can be seen through the relief hole in the bracket (See picture). Luck was with my son who was driving at 30 MPH when it broke. The inside of the tire was shredded from rubbing up against a bracket. I had to pay for the flat bed truck to get it to the Ford dealer for evaluation and was told that Ford denied the fix. I was also told that the fix was warranted for 12 months, But I was not told at the time of the repair and it's not on the receipt. It seems unlikely that that amount of rust could develop so fast or it was missed by the repair tech. If this is what is to be expected, looks like Ford is in for a lot of law suits. Had my son been doing 65 MPH down a highway it would have been very very bad.

I had my 99 Windstar rear axle repaired in 2011. They REPAIRED it. Well, on Wed May 22, 2013. The axle REPAIR broke. When I called the dealer they told me that this is not covered. So, I guess I am in for a few stressful weeks trying to get these people to cover what they did. This just sucks.

Ford really better watch out. I took my 2002 windstar in for the recall in oct. 2011 as told by their letter, and now aug. 2013 my rear axle was so rusted through that my whole rear side was shaking. Now, I am presently paying for a brand new one, since ford will not honor their mistakes. So help me god, I Am not done with this dam Ford Company. We should all do something to show this dam company how wrong they are. Them

Recalls are RARELY voluntary. To be frank, it's cheaper for the manufacturer to pay out on lawsuits than it is to repair thousands of vehicles (Does anyone remember the exploding Pinto?). If there is a recall issued, the inspection and repair procedures meet the Government's standard for safety and durability. I understand that most of you live in the "Salt Belt" - just curious but, ever rinse off the underside of your car? How about undercoating? To be frank (again) I don't understand why anyone would think that the manufacturer should repair a 7+ year old car anyway. "Hey, all the steering components on my '87 F- 250 4x4 are worn out - Ford should fix that for free and fix it right now!" Right?

@Tracy This problem is exclusive and extensive to these vans.... I have had many cars 10+ years and never had these problems. The corrosion I had on my van was VERY extensive for a car with <80k mi (and yes, mine did have the undercoating... it has proven to be useless). Like you said, recalls are not voluntary which just proves that this is beyond normal wear and tear that would be expected otherwise there would not have been a recall in the first place. @megamom My suggestion to you is to file reports with the NHTSA at https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/ They compile the complaints and launch investigations. As far as I know, this is the only way that Ford can be forced to do a recall.

I have a slight twist with this axel repair. I currently own 2 - 2000 ford Windstar vans. Both of my vans are wheel chair conversion vans, rear entry type. They are used to transport my son, a student in college at Mississippi State University. He has Cerebral Palsy, and uses a power wheelchair. His friends, and attendants use the vans to transport him. Last spring, I needed addition keys and had hit the 8 key program limit on the van. I was unaware of any problems or recalls. I had one of the vans taken to the dealership for the key programming. Without my knowledge, the repair to the rear axel was made, which involved installing support brackets to the axel. These brackets are clamped together on the top of the axel. This increase in axel height caused a problem that took several months for me to diagnose. Anytime the van drove over a bump, a severe jar, and loud bang happened. This summer I began to research what it could be. I checked coil springs, replaced the shocks, inspected coil spring pads, checked axel bump stops, spent countless hours searching the web, but nothing fixed my problem. Then a couple of weeks ago, both vans were sitting next to each other. I was describing the problem to one of my drivers, and began to show him what might be the problem. And I saw it, the installed brackets were hitting the bottom of the wheelchair floor. It was metal against metal, and had began to bend into the floor pan. I took the van back to the dealership, who stated they did what was required, and that was all they could do. But now all the weight of the van is pounding on these brackets, which are designed to strengthen a weak spot on the axel. As I continued to complain, they decided to place a piece of rubber above the bracket, but this only increases the axel height. I feel the axel should have been replaced. The factory bump stop no longer functions, as this new dealer designed bracket is my new bump stop. I'm concerned this constant slamming of the body into the corroded axel is more dangerous than what I was facing originally. A few calls to Ford has been pointless. My 2nd van was taken in for an inspection sticker, and now they are asking me to sign a letter saying I am refusing the repair, and will not hold Ford liable. I have written an email to the engineering department that is working with the dealers, after reading that the dealers have discretion of replacing vs repairing. I'll post the events that happen over the next few days. As for as rental or anything extra, nothing has been offered.

RockeyT.....I have to agree with ford on this one. they have done the recall repair. keep in mind, the conversion modifications were done TO a vehicle built by ford, but by a separate company, Ford has no control of how the conversions are engineered, so you need to contact the conversion company and see if they can help. hope you find help there.

Not sure how many others are having this problem than those that are posting here, but my 02 Windstar had the axle crack just under the recall repair sleeve on the driver's side about a month ago. I brought it to the Ford dealer who confirmed it was cracked and got the same response as the others: Ford warrantied the repair for 12 months. Mine had been done 19 months ago. It appears that Ford put an 18 month band-aid on the problem and gave a 12 month warranty on it. That's ridiculous! It is obvious that they did not do an adequate assessment on these axles when they made the repair/replace decision, as there is no way my axle went from "no rust" (dealers words) 19 months ago, to rusty enough to crack now. I have sent an email to the local news near me to let them know about the problem and have discussed the issue with a lawyer and am deciding how to proceed. I was also lucky in that it happened at a slower speed. In my opinion, it is only a matter of time before this happens to someone at a higher speed and someone gets hurt. Such a shame, we loved the van for many years (this was my second), but have gotten a bad taste from corporate and the local dealer that I will never own or ever recommend any else own a Ford again.

OK folks, I have an update. As I searched around the internet looking for anything, I found a couple of documents that seemed important. The first is a bulletin with specific instructions about what to inspect and when to repair or replace. It's a great explaination of what is happening. https://pictures.dealer.com/autofair/37c816944046387201395dabe1100cb4.pdf I also found a letter that was sent to all owners Ford had record of owning one of these vans. http://www.autosafety.org/sites/default/files/10V385%20Windstar%20P577%20Letter.pdf Finally I ran across a letter from Ford's Export division to the Ford dealers in Puerto Rico: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs/jaxrs/download/doc/UCM422481/RCMN-12V195-9090.pdf On page 3, under Additional Labor Time, is this sentence: "If you encounter aftermarket equipment or modifications to the vehicle which might prevent the repair of the covered condition, contact expwrty@ford.com" I contacted my dealer again, asked if he had the recall letter to the dealers. After he reread his letter, he contacted ford again. 20 minutes later he called and couldn't have been nicer. They agreed to replace the axels. It was there all the time.

RockeyT.......I stand and salute you, and am proud to say I was wrong! you have done a great investigation with tremendous results. this is a feather in your cap! ......and thank you for the update. let us know how it turns out, with pictures if possible.

Great info RockeyT, I am glad you were able to get them to make good on your issues, but now I am more confused. The first link provided shows the dealer's instruction on how to determine whether to replace the axle or not, however, the recall memo mentions "parts to reinforce axles" which is what they put on mine. What was the purpose of the reinforcement? Was it just to jeep the axle together when it finally did fail? That seems to be the only thing it did. At this point I have about given up and figure I'll hold onto the van for a while and see if they have a second buyout after someone else ends up getting hurt. I see the legacy of the Windstar going the way of the Pinto.

Just ran across this gem. Looks like Ford could have fixed this problem by heat treating. They knew it early on. Almost 10 years before the recall. But, it would have cost an additional $5.00 an axel. Unbelievable! http://www.paed.uscourts.gov/documents/opinions/13d0548p.pdf

I need to clarify. They knew about the axel problems in 1998. Stated in internal memo in 1999 that heat treating could double the axel life, but would cost an additional $3.45 per axel after retooling. This treatment went into production in March 2003. This case is a must read if you own a Windstar. I'm a Ford customer. It's shameful what they knew and what they ignored. http://www.paed.uscourts.gov/documents/opinions/13d0548p.pdf

hei.ford windstar sold in Europ do not get any Ford recalls,if yours axle broken -its yours problemmm.So you in USA get ford service,we in EU get nothig....EUro (ford USA) seller just sayd-oh no no for this car is no recalls..... i want put info about it in internet and show ford USA quaranty for buyers---fix you self...

A few weeks ago I noticed my drivers side tire was leaning inward on the top. Thought it was bearings . Lo and behold under the clamp that ford put.on the axle is cracked. They want me.to have it towed at my expense to them for a determination on whether they will fix it. So, pissed. I can't see the links that Rocket posted. Can someone tell me what to do. The car is parked in a position that the flat bed driver can't get to and I can't move the car the axle is hanging on by a thread. They put a bandaid on something that needed stiches.

Last week, I too had my rear axle fail. I had the repairs done during the recall. Brackets were added to reinforce the axel. the rear tires were tilted out slightly and to find out the rear axle has failed. I called 1-800- 392-3673 (Ford Company) from direction from the local Ford dealership. I was told that since the recall repair was done over 12 months ago that it would not be covered. I was told to keep my receipt in case they expanded the recall. I also found out to go to NHTSA.GOV to file a complaint. They will not expand the recall unless enough complaints are noted. Calling the dealership is not enough.. you have to call Ford Co 800-392-3673 and visit NHTSA.GOV before it is officially noted.

Had mine break about 2weeks ago have been fighting with ford since then my husband just called the 800 number and they pretty much told him to go fuck himself. I have my two boys in the car a 2 1/2 year old and a 5 month old. I'm just glad I knew how to handle the car cause if not we would be in the hospital! This is bullshit and they need to do something!

Has anyone had their subframe brake? I was driving my Windstar to the dealership for inspection and the subframe broke while driving. When that happened it caused damage to other parts of the van. Now the dealership has had my van for 3 weeks, no rental car was provided. They called and said they fixed the subframe and Axel. But, it's not drivable due to other damages. And they aren't going to fix them. Even though it was their faulty parts that caused the damage. Any suggestions as what to do?

My 00 Windstar broke a couple of weeks ago. I have been fighting with them on Twitter and email and the phone. One Service Manager at a dealership told me to drive it in to see if they can tell what's wrong. Hahaha. Yep. Broken axle, tire slanted UNDERNEATH my piece of crap van and I'm gonna drive it on over! My entire family (all six of our kids!) were in there when the axle broke. They put a bandaid on it and now it's my problem. The woman who called me after I emailed Mr. Mulally hung up on me a few hours ago after agreeing that she wouldn't be happy with my "Too bad, so sad!" Reply from Ford either. She also agreed that axles are a lifetime part. All of our children could have died at once! Oh well, they say! I have always disliked Fords, and now I know why. Built Ford Tough is about the most laughable slogan ever promoted, and I feel sorry for Mike Rowe having tarnished his name in promoting Ford's vehicles and degrading himself saying how great they are. Now I will spread the word as far as I can in how much they don't care about safety, or their owners at all. Only when someone is saying how great their little pony car is or how great their trucks horsepower is. Otherwise, they couldn't care less because they want to look good. I'm done being nice.

This has also happened to me.... I had the brace applied to my Ford Windstar rear axle on 10/19/2011 and in June 2014 the rear axle busted. I am thankful I was the only one in the van and was driving in town at about 25 MPH. The Ford dealership I am working with called Ford, wanting them to correct this matter and Ford refused, saying the recall has expired.

I bought a 2002 Windstar used last July. Two days ago my drivers side year axle separated while my wife was driving home my son, son-in- law and 1 month old grandchild. Fortunately she was on a side road driving slowly when it occurred and all are safe! I then found out that back in 2011 the recall "repairs" were done. I contacted Ford to see if they could fix the problem that they obviously didn't, and was pretty much told to go shit in a hat!

The Ford engineers who designed this vehicle should be fired!!!!!. I love the van but we were all let down by the Ford Motor Company. I have owned numerous Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury cars throughout the years but never again. I took my van in for a recall on my rear axle, and subframe corrosion issue. The frame actually broke. The service rep said he wasn't aware of a rear axle recall.. (This is was today10/21/14) . Ford recalled over 575,000 Windstars and he hadn't heard about it???? They wanted to charge me a $110.00 diagnostic fee to access the problem. I called another dealer today and he said there should be no cost to me. The issue is relatively new to me but I can see that Ford/at least the dealer is going to drag their feet on this.

Back in December, 2010. I received the recall notice that related to the rear axle on my 2001 Ford Windstar. I bought this van brand new and took very good care of it over the years including keeping it in the garage. However, when I took my van in, the dealer told me the rear axle needed to be reinforced AND the front subframe would also need to be reinforced. Fast-forward to November, 2014. I was driving home, and heard a loud metal-on-metal bang from the front of my van. When I got home, I saw the right-side sway bar bracket (that was welded to the front subframe) had completely rusted away - I mean it was GONE! The next day I took my van into the dealer and one day later, they called me with the news that FORD would not pay for any of the repairs. Very disappointed in FORD. I have owned five over the years; however, as a result of this Windstar and the treatment FORD gave me, I would NEVER buy another FORD, and I mean, NEVER!

I was happy with Ford to this day. I have a 2002 Windstar that had its recall work done on the rear axle 2011. Like everyone that responded about this fix, it was a just to get you through till Ford was not responsible anymore. I happen to take the van into Ford for a coolant flush and they discovered the cracked axle right in the middle on the sleeve they installed. Thank God it did not break when the kids NEW DRIVERS (I THOUGHT FORD PRODUCTS WERE SAFE WITH THEIR RECALLS) My question to anyone out their can we file suit against this form of knowing negligence.

I replied above. Mine broke again a couple of months ago. Yes, the same axle. on the other side. Started in on trying to get Ford to care again and.....hahahahaha. One of their service Rep said that they'd helped me. Um, yeah. They told me it needed to be fixed. I told MYSELF that. Oh and everyone else who saw my leaning-to-one-side-because- Ford-likes-Band-aids van said that same thing! Or asked me how we aren't dead. Its an AXLE, FORD!! They just don't care. They have shoddy vehicles, horrible business practices and yet promote their stupid big trucks and Mustangs all day. Why would they care about the people with broken down minivans? Most of us aren't going to be shelling out for a shiny nee 'Stang or F150 any time soon, as told by owning an old minivan to begin with. That's why they don't care!

This is interesting, I thought this was an old problem that only I was having with ford right now. I will actually be getting my 2002 windstar hauled over to a dealer in the morning. I don't know what to expect I talked to the ford rep and got the same rehrsad

Sorry, as I was say got the same rehersed response as everyone else, my van was recall "repaired" in 2010 by previous owner, and enspected

Inspected again a 8 months ago and I was told everything was fine. Axel is now cracked right in the middle of the bracket that was supposed to fix it. If anyone has any other up to date info on what I can do to get ford to do right by there mess, please share thanx, peace

You know the company Ford? They Do. Not. Care. Seriously. A secretary to the (now former- they got a new one in July) president of the company HUNG UP ON ME because I keptasking her how shed feel if she was told such a large company didn't want to spend a couple hundred for THEIR MISTAKE that could've killed all six of our kids. She said she wouldn't like it either. Then hung up a couple of minutes later. She kept saying they did what they needed to, it is out of their hands, and that I could take it to any Ford dealer for repair at my expense. Um, yeah. I paid almost 700 bucks at 2 different places for my axle that broke TWICE within a few months because they screwed up and DONT CARE. I go back and forth with them ocassionally on Twitter. Like posting "This is what #BuiltFordTough REALLY means!" With a picture if a broken Windstar axle. Built Ford Tough is a hash tag they use all the time in promoting their trucks. Or other things talking about/to their horrible service and company ethics. Their FordService person told me a few weeks ago that they helped me. Yeah. Okay. They told me repeatedly that they just don't give a crap. Good lookin out there, buddy!

They are not going to help you. Maybe you can start in on them like iihave but you still won't get anywhere other than satisfaction that they know you're pissed and are letting other people know too. Mine didn't just crack though. Mine broke in 2 pieces and wasn't drive able twice. Like TWO TIMES!!!! And yet Ford STILL doesn't care!!

Same thing here brackets put on axle corroded and broke and no on at ford will help actually referred me to the dealer from corporate. Now, how is the dealer responsible for an engineering defect . Ford is a greedy irresponsible company and I am done . I am never buying Ford again and i was one of their greatest supporters a few weeks ago. All I can say is if you are driving down the road behind one of these 99-03 Windstars stay back ....WAY BACK!!!!!!!

I was driving my 2003 Ford Windstar and it started making noise several days before the actual break that took place on 02-05-15. Ford replaced the broken rear axle and they reinforced the subframe assembly. Now I just got it back today and it dose not sound or drive like it did before they Ford touched it. It now has a vibration in the steering and when I accelerate, I called Ford and am waiting for Maria March in a the service manager to get back to me. I was also told by Ford that it has a damaged shock on the back which is most likely due to the actual breaking of the rear axle. They said they would not pay for it, they also said they will not pay for my $125.00 tow bill or for a rental car. Now I am a disabled and had no way of getting around for all most a whole week and had to speed my last bit of money on the tow bill. Come on Ford, talking about taking advantage of a disabled person! I feel that this is a big problem and I'm going to build a website to warn others about it. My Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/joebednarsky

...How the heck did you get them to fix it!?!?! Especially so fast!! I fought with them verbally and online for a couple of months about this and they don't care!

I just called them and asked if there were any recalls on it and they said yes two and to have it towed there and they would fix it.

Out of all if these people here, why would they basically laugh in our faces, literally hang up on me, but fix yours? That makes NO sense! And now I'm way more pissed off at that piece of crap company.

@VicBow I can only assume that "Joe" had not brought the vehicle in for the initial recall. My issue was " Hey... We fixed it based on what we had to do so @#$% you!!!!!

Yes you in USA are lucky buyers you have recall...i hope you have... but buyers in EU have nothing,Ford USA don know any seller or service centers for fixing Ford USA cars in EU...Also i get answer-is no recall for my Windstar 2000,is broken rear axle ... So i never buy other car made by ford usa ,better buy FORD EU and never get problems with recall programs or with broken main parts of car

Just had this same issues this week 3-19-2015. purchased this van a few months ago. Was driving home from school on my way to pick up my 3 children and lost control of my vehicle. Pulled to the side of the road and saw that both back tires were slanting inward. after investigating the cause I Called ford to inquire about the recall and was told that the van had been "reinforced" and "lubricated " to prevent further rusting in 2011 per the recall protocol and since the work was only guaranteed 1 year, any further costs would be at my responsibility. I was told that any firther rusting after the fix was due to normal wear and tear. Because we all know most cars rust completley within 4 years. i was also referred back to the dealership. I asked the lady if there were other similar cLAims and if so, was there a certain number of deaths that have to occur before ford would do the moral/ethical thing and fix the problem. These are MINIVANS meant to haul our most precious cargo---FAMILY, CHILDREN. I am three weeks from graduating nursing school and start a preceptor ship in 2 weeks and now I am without a car. In the past I have always bought Chevy and in the future this is what I will do again. FORD- FIXED OR RUSTED DAILY!!!! shame on you.....Henry t. Ford is rolling over in his grave right now to see what you have done with his company. you would think that the company that holds is honored as inventing the car would be innovative enough to still be able to design one that doesn't rust entirely in two in less than a decade. This is big business for you. You reap what you sow Though and the steady decline in sales and business over the years is a telling tale of what's to come for you Ford. I'm sure not one ford executive would have lost a wink of sleep if thier faulty cheap parts cost me the life of a child but I hope you loose sleep over loosing money in the years to come. A business reputation always precedes you.

I had the rear recall done a couple years ago. recently had an rear electrical module issue because of a rusted wheel well, had two dealers and a repair shop tell me about the subframe, tie rod ends, stabilizer bars and a front wheel bearing. the second dealer also told me that the rear axel was cracked under the recall brackets. so trying to get my son through college with this van is really starting to scare me now. this dealer wants $700+ for a new axel, think they are getting it. We need that car. I have been taking parts off vans at the junk yard, there are so many of these vans there and I find myself inspecting them for the recall.

Is there anyway we can get a lawyer to help with the disregard of ford putting us clients in a very dangerous situation with our families. Knowing that this fix was not a fix but band aid to a real problem that caused real emotional and physiological to its customers.

Well the same happened to me as all the post right where the brackets were placed in 2011. Sat i lost control of my 02 windstar because the axle broke. Called ford and nothing. Wrote a complaint and filed it with the Nhtsa and got a phone call from the original agent that investigated the recall in 2010. The gentleman went sight to the shop to see my van then asked me where I lost control so he could see if there was any evidence. I was only going 40 and there didn't seem to be any marks on the road. File a complaint on their website we all have to show its unsafe even with the brackets because it scared the crap out of me. I haven't herd back yet to see what the next steps are but I'm keeping my fingers crossed. My damage is already Done and yes I hope they have to fix it my biggest concern is what if someone else and their babies aren't as lucky as my babies and i were. The agent said that the support bar is supposed to make it safe to where if it breaks you will not loose control and have a crash. The way that I lost control I don't believe this I'd true. What happened to me sat was not safe once so ever thankfully I wasn't going to fast.

HERE IS A LOOK AT WHAT THEY SAID THEY FIX A YEAR PRIOR IT RUSTED RIGHT THROUGH AND CRACK. LETTING THE WHEEL TILT OUT SO I HAD TO PAY FOR A NEW AXEL. FORD SHOULD BE SUED BECAUSE OF A BAD FIX AND REALLY UN SAFE PRACTICE.

another photo

Report it on the nhtsa. . The investigator from there said everyone needs to report. This recall could go through agian the issue is the bracket they put on the axles apparently makes the axle breaking not a safety hazard because no one is going off the road and loosing control. These brackets were all put in the same place because ford knew it would break there. I did loose control, I'm wondering if anyone one else has too

Here is the website to file complaint https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/VehicleComplaint/index.xhtml

I have a 2001 Windstar that had the recall service done in 2011 (I purchased it in January 2015). The garage used the bolt-on brackets as opposed to replacing the axle. I was under the van looking at the spare tire hanging mechanism and noticed what looked like a crack on the rear axle. Recently, I noticed the driver's side rear tire had an unnatural lean. I made an appointment to have it checked out, only to have the axle fail, causing the tire to start rubbing against the wheel well. Ford told me the repair was past the 12 month, 12K warranty on the repair. I had a loosely quoted figure of at least $800 to fix it on my dime. I reported to the NHTSA. Now I'm trying to figure how to light a fire under Ford.

Well I got word back from ford motor co. and they will not cover my axle breakage. luckily my dealership covered it. I think they knew we had pictures of the break and one bracket on the passenger side is about 6 " from the end where the driver side bracket was about 12" in from the end and it broke 6" in .New axle and new driver side tire from the damage. Everyone please report to NHTSA.

My 2001 was repair with recall patch. The patch leaves the bottom of the axle exposed. The axle rusted and broke at the patch location. Called dealer and Ford Motor and both said the recall had been satisfied and there was nothing they would do. Informed me now it was owners financial responsibility for repair. When someone dies from an axle braking at high speeds maybe they will discuss it among themselves.

Bought a 2001 from a dealership March of 2013. Having the same cracked axle problem that happened approximately a week ago. Called Dealership they said it had been fixed November 2011 and we were to call Ford. Ford said the vehicle was already recalled and had been "fixed" and there is nothing else that they can do even though it was looked at 4 times for the same thing since the 12 months have expired from the warranty of the recall. I totally understand vehicle maintenance and normal wear and tear but this totally exceeds this! I have already filed a complaint with NHTSA and EVERYONE needs to let them know about this! I am just thankful this happened driving in town rather than at a high rate of speed on the interstate with my whole family! Could have been fatal to us and others driving in the on coming lane!

Brought our 2003 Windstar in for oil/lube - mentioned a creaking noise everytime the van is backed out of the drive into the street - they called me to inform me that the rear axle has a crack and has to be replaced at my expense. Dealer claims the service manager personally called Ford as well sent photos requesting instructions. Dealer was turned down from Ford - it is on me to replace. Dealer quoted me $1,050 for a new axle. Several previous posts were priced in the $700 / $800 range. Contacted Ford directly - waiting on response. Also calling around for quotes on a new axle - obviously my Dealer may be taking advantage. Needless to say - not surprised by Ford and my Dealer especially if they are overcharging.

I had Stephen McHenry Federal Investigator, U.S. DOT National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Office of Defects Investigation NVS-213 Room W48-308 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE. Washington D.C. 20590-0001 202.366.4883 or 1.877.536.8368 x-64883 Fax 202.366.1767 Contact me asking for information about my 2002 Windstar. I gave him photos. He was glad to have information. You might want to contact him if you ahve reports. take care

I just ran into a similar problem. I bought my 2001 Windstar about 2 yrs. ago and a few days ago my wife was driving with my kids in the car thankfully made it home, and told me about a weird noise that the van was making. After looking at everything I noticed that the rear wheels were slanted. I also noticed that there were two support clamps on each side of the axle, but there is a crack in the center of the axle. I took it to the deal ship near my home, and they told me that the recall was issued to Vin number specific, and that my van was not included in the recall. Just wondering then why the support brackets were installed and by who??? Either way dealer states that it is my responsibility to get it fixed on my dime. Called corporate they said the same thing, and also stated that they would submit the complaint and could possibly lead to another recall, and if that happens that as long as the deal ship does the repair that I would be reimbursed for the cost of the repair. What are the chances of them issuing another recall???? Going to report to NHTSA next.

I post information for contact at NHTSA please call him he would like all information. take care Tony

Well my question is WHY WOULDNT NEBRASKA BE in this recall SINCE IT SNOWS ALOT...I now have a van sitting in a parking lot, luckily NO we didnt die or get in a crash, but I have a van sitting in parking lot across town with no way to get it home or to a shop and FORD is no help and after reading all these posts Im really starting to lose hope. I did however file complaint already with NHTSA just now. I have 2002 Windstar and had noticed it riding rough but thought it was just shocks or something and went to store, came out to a shredded tired as if I got slashed, but I didnt get slashed, it just blew up! Thanks FORD for being SO NOT helpful..BIG BUSINESS and all their money yet they dont care about the families buying their piece of shit cars and getting killed while doing it because it snows...or maybe they think Nebraska is NOT a snowy state, just corn fields?

Jennifer file the complaint with Stephen McHenry Federal Investigator, U.S. DOT National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Office of Defects Investigation NVS-213 Room W48-308 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE. Washington D.C. 20590-0001 202.366.4883 or 1.877.536.8368 x-64883 Fax 202.366.1767 He is collecting data.

2 weeks ago I am driving down 65N and my rear axel complety brakes in two sending the van into wicked fishtailing across the interstate! Luckily my family, I had just dropped off 5 at home, were not in the car or this could have been a totally different and sad story. I was able to get the vehicle under control, towed and then found this was a "recall" issue. upon contacting Ford the did verify my vehicle was part of the recall and I was to have it towed to a Ford dealership where repairs would be taken care of at no cost, ha! three days after vehicle was towed to dealership I get a call advising in order for them to replace the rear axel they would also need to replace the rear shocks and rear track bar because they were bent ( due to the axel braking)...this would cost me $433.89. Not happy that I would have to pay for repairs that were a direct cause from the rear axel breaking I was advised to call the 800 customer service number, which has gotten me no where! advised a letter was sent in Oct. 2010 advising of the recall ( I never got the notice!) and since a letter was sent they were not responsible and would not pay for any additional damages, even though a direct cause from the rear axel breaking! upon further investigation, rear shocks - $55each, rear track bar $75, why are they going to charge me $433.89? I am still waiting to hear back from the Supervisor Debbie (Ford Customer Service) assured would call me back ...but said they wouldn't give me any different answer. I agree with Jennifer, Ford is not helpful at all and should totally be responsible for any other repairs that need to happen as a result of this "recall" item!

Sharon 7/31/15 just got the van back my axle was cracked I went to the dealer a year ago to have the recall addressed since I received a letter. I moved from Virginia in 2006 to North Carolina thankfully I contacted ford for another matter and updated my information. I had the car checked in 07/14 and they said they didnt have the kits available but the car was ok they would call me when it came in..time passes never got a call and I forgot about it until this past week 1year later. I decided to get new tires and also replace the now 13yr old spare. Thank god I did. The tire shop found a CRACK in the rear axle said have it towed its not safe to drive. AAA took it to the dealer for me I was also advised to take pictures at the tire shop so I did and FORD replaced the entire axle and added some Frankenstein brackets with monster bolts on it to the front subframe as well. Now the Tranny is acting up so back it goes and they decline responsibility for the broken motor mounts due to the stress from the brackets they put on. Its now a a Transmission place getting new mounts. This car has a demon in it I am constantly fixing it but to replace it with a new similar vehicle it is going to be over $38,000 for a NEW car so screw me. Stuck in the old CHUCK WAGON hell have practically rebuilt it in 3ys New Front assembly tie rods axles, control arms both sides, ps pump, new rack and pinion, 4 alternators really 4.. and the pw windows also now don't work and the AC does not blow cold..oh yea I put in a new Blend Door Accuator in it myself 2 weeks ago..now to need ac coolant Ford this was a Fail....Anyone out there if its cracked take pics they will fix it but you have to be FIRM or you will get screwed.. I also spoke to the GM of the dealership and insisted on a loaner car..job was done in 4days...its your money and safety and they didn't want to get sued,,,good luck y'all

Sharon. Glad you were able to get a new axle out of it. Most of us just got the recall repair, not a new axle. The recall repair just put a cheap band aid over the old rusty axle, which would eventually fail, anyway. Once you have had the recall done (in any form), Ford renounces any further responsibility (e.g., your front sub frame and motor mounts, which was a different recall). My suggestion is to sell it while it is still worth more than a $500 deduction on your taxes when you donate it.

For those of you in the Philly area, there is a Blue Windstar with a broken rear axle abandoned on 476 South as you enter 95. It looks like they finally gave up.

My 01 Windstar axle cracked right at the bracket repair clamp/bolts made in late 2012. Ford consumer line said the repair was done, warranty is up, have a nice day... Dealer said the same thing. Unbelievable given the high number of cars with this same problem. AND a safety problem at that. How many bodies do they need before doing another recall.....??

Owner of a 2001 Windstar that I purchased brand new. My subframe was reinforced (by Ford) back in 2010. However, since then, my sway bar bracket has completely rusted away leaving the sway bar dangling and banging against the unibody. Additionally, my subframe has almost rusted completely through where the right sway bar bracket used to be. Ford refuses to fix my van or offer me a credit. I have owned 4 Fords in my life and this Ford will definitely be my last. I will never buy another Ford and I will tell anyone who asks me why. Ford STINKS !

I have a 2002 Ford Windstar. I had the recall done as per the letter I received and now my acel is bent. I caught it before it broke while I was driving it. My husband called and they told him that it's not there problem. He called Ford and the said the same thing. It's pretty sad that they don't stand behind there product! Thanks for nothing!!! I will tell everyone that I know and meet about the poor service that we have received from Ford! I have always bought fords and now I will NEVER buy another Ford. I am so glad they are putting peroples lives at risk so they can fill there pockets! YOU MAKE ME SICK!!!!!

Finally- some great news! Ford Windstar Minivans Recalled for a Second Time Ford is again recalling about 340,000 Windstar minivans from 1998 to 2003 because an earlier effort to fix a rear axle that could break might not have been done properly, the automaker said Wednesday in a news release. In 2010, Ford recalled about 500,000 Windstars in the United States because corrosion could cause the rear axle to fail, making the vehicle difficult to control. Ford replaced axles that were cracked, and on other vehicles it installed a supporting bracket. On Wednesday, Ford said some of those brackets were not properly installed. The automaker said there have been “a small number of accidents that might be connected to this issue but no injuries.” A Ford spokeswoman, Kelli Felker, said she did not know how many axles may have failed without resulting in an accident. Ms. Felker said Ford “believes the bracket is an adequate fix,” but that it was offering $300 to help owners who want a new rear axle. Ms. Felker said that was about half the cost of the repair, but for owners who reported their experience to carcomplaints.com, the average cost of replacing the rear axle was about $1,000. Clarence Ditlow, the executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, wrote in an email that Ford’s encouraging owners to get new axles was an admission that “the only effective remedy is a new rear axle.”

Department of transportation in Washington (I'm from ohio) ran tests on our broken axle when we paid to fix it. We have been in communication with them this whole time. If ford fixed your axle and you paid for it call them they will lay you back.

Everyone who has got there axel fixed take note. Ford will reimbursed you but you must do it by mid Dec 2015. They will cover $300.00 on repair. So if you paid $1000 they will pay you back $700. I got this information right from Ford.

Attention all current Ford Windstar owners: Visit SAFERCAR.GOV and check your VIN. I just learned that Ford will be conducting another recall of 380,000 Windstars. Check your VIN

Mine Axle broke Ford said I have to pay $300. for a new one. What are they crazy? Put Ford Windstar in the search bar of You Tube and watch ABC News chilling report https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=twbJmrXfKW4&feature=youtu.be

I took my car in for inspection in July 2014 and all was well according too the dealer, However I went to by new tires for my car in July 2015 and the awesome tire shop found the crack and said don't drive Sooo I went back to Ford they replaced it and even gave me a rental during my repair. One thing though, I work for USPS as a mail carrier and explained the problems an accident would have caused and they fixed it right away at there expense they also installed what I call Frankenstein bolts and brackets on my SubFrame In the front. I had a brand new axle installed I also lived In Virginia when I bought the car and moved to NC years later. Don't give up and take Lots of Pictures..Good luck all.

Just dropped my '01 ford windstar off at the dealership for inspection on the rear axel. Apparently if it isnt cracked where the bracket is placed your gonna pay.. does anyone know about the recall on the front subframe from 2011? Bc apparently mine rested and the control arm is about to detach. But the guy said thats not covered on the recall on my vehicle. How not?

It depends on if you had the recall work on the subframe done

Bought 2000 ford Windstar lx used with 67,000 miles off craigslist in 8/2015 *Rear axel was fixed by ford 2011 for rear axel* 9/1/2015 rear axel broke in half after going over pot hole entering parkway, insurance paid to fix. the week before Christmas van stalled and indoor lights had to be manually shut off. 12/24/2015 van stalls, towed and still in shop 2/14/2015. Computer replaced but van has a major electrical shortage blowing #22 fuse plus computer. Also front end has corrosion like rear had and brackets on engine are corroding. Van still in shop not able to start and ford is doing nothing.

HAD THE SAME THING HAPPEN TO ME WITH A 2002 INSPECTED IN 2011 NEW RECALL # FOR BRACKETS THEN 2015 OCT GOT ANOTHER RECALL. DEALER SAID THEY WERE OUT 3 MONTH BEFORE REPAIR COULD BE DONE SO i GARAGED THE VAN. JUST LAST WEEK REAR END FAILED.. WENT TO DEALER AND THEY WANTED TO CHARGE ME $300 DEDUCTIBLE! i TOLD THEM NO WAY THERE ARE 4 OTHER RECALL NOTICES ATTACHED TO THE VAN SAME PROBLEM DIFFERENT WORDING.. (SAME ISSUE REAR AXLE FAILURE) i FOUGHT WITH THEM (DEALER) AND FORD MOTOR COMPANY FOR 3 DAYS. TOTAL OF 24 HRS OF PHONE CALLS BACK AND FORTH. i TOLD THEM IF THEY DON'T WAVE THE $300 i WILL CALL THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION. WISCONSIN STATES ATTORNEY GENERAL. BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU OF WISCONSIN AND NATIONAL SAFETY BOARD! THEY DID NOT BELIEVE ME. DAY 3 MORNING GOT A PHONE CALL FROM FORD MOTOR COMPANY SUPERVISOR. SHE REPEATED EVERY WORD I TOLD THEM AND IT WENT ON FOR ABOUT 5 MINUTES WHEN I INTERRUPTED HER AND WENT STRAIGHT FOR THE ANSWER FROM HER YES THEY WILL COVER OR NO THEY WON'T COVER THE DEDUCTIBLE. SHE SAID THEY WON'T. SO I REMAINED HER WHAT I SAID I WOULD DO. (REFER TO THE ABOVE STATEMENT) i HUNG UP AND STARTED ALL MY PHONE CALLS TO THE FTC WSAG AND BBB. TOMORROW THE NATIONAL SAFETY BOARD. SO AS THE DAY WENT ON I GOT A PHONE CALL FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER FROM THE DEALER AND HE SAID I DON'T KNOW WHO YOU (ME) KNOW AT FORD BUT THEY ARE COVERING THE $300. THAT STILL DOES NOT MAKE IT SAFE FOR OTHER DRIVERS AND THEY ARE STILL CHARGING OTHER PEOPLE THE $300 TOO AND THATIS WHAT I WANT STOPPED. I HAVE BEEN THROU AT LEAST 4 RECALL FOR DIFFERENT CARS I HAVE OWNED AND NEVER CHARGED FOR THE MFG MISTAKES. THERE IS A WISCONSIN REPORT OF DEATHS ASSOCIATED WITH THIS RECALL IN THE PAST 3 YEARS.. i AM GOING TO CALL THE NEWS PAPER AND TV NEWS ALSO IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF DAYS. SO DON'T LET THE BIG MAN TELL YOU WHAT U CAN AND CAN'T DO. BIG COMPANY'S DON'T RULE MY LIFE.. LAST THING I WILL NEVER BUY A FORD AGAIN..

Thanks Mike I am going to forward this to my dealer who charged me all but 300.00 Please let me know who to contact. thanks again

You have to be ready for a fight... Ok first when u call u will get the Philippines then you must ask to be connected to the State side Ford office cause you are not happy. Then you will get a person that is part of a focus team that are there to resolve issues with pushy customers.. Tell them the hole story I said up top how you are not happy that the safety recall is all their fault and that they need to pay this off. and also play the General Manager at the dealer ship too, Meaning give them the same pressure you are giving to Ford too.. Ok this is not a fool prove answer right now but in the long run they will know that people are watching their moves.. My whole issue is not the money but it is part of it. The issue is that there has been 3 or 4 safety recalls on this rear axle. People are not a $ sign but flesh and blood. They messed up in 2011 or even back when they bought the cheapest metal to build my Van and yours. It is Fords fault! So it is not enough that when the van was brand new and it Cost $35000.00 that the parts were install badly (is that a word) then because they install bad parts it most come out of our pockets and LIVES.. 1-866-436-7332 this is the number to Ford Customer Service line ask for the state side office. Don;t give up

I had recall fixed 2011 and got second recall Jan 2016. Inspection did not pass so they ordered new axel. no cost to me me for any thing. My van is a 2000, never expected it to be free. My dealer is in decatur il.

You got lucky had mine inspection on the rear axle on 4/16/16 and I asked to have the axle replaced and they told me that the tec said my rear axle was good and they wasn't putting on a new one because mine was good, Well here it was 2/9/17 and the axle broke so I don't think the Tec did a good inspection because I doubt that if it was good not even a year ago that it would have broke right under the bracket or should I say Band- Aid so I called Ford and they tell me it's not covered and that I have to pay for a new axle and have it replaced and just for the axle now is $1500 plus labor WTF. Does anyone know if a 2004 or a newer rear axle from a freestar will fit on my 2002 windstar?? If so I am going to look to see if I can find a newer one from a freestar if it will work.

The rear of mine just cracked. Has anyone had this happen with the brackets installed? Hoping Ford will own up to this shoddy work and help with a new subframe.

My wife was driving our 01 windstar the other day and the subframe completely broke. Lost steering and all right in the middle of the road. Contacted someone and they are supposed to contact us tomorrow

Please let me know what happens! Did you contact ford corporate or a dealership?

Ford had us tow the van to a dealer and we were told that they will fix the subframe for free but if we want the steering column and exhaust or n e thing else that broke because the subframe busted we would have to pay for that. Then ford tried to buy the van back from us for $1456. Big joke. Then ford said keep the receipts and if the steering column or exhaust goes on recall from the subframe busting we will reimburse you. Looking at the recall it says the lower control can separate and the subframe.can come apart causing steering issue and lead to a crash. So they know it can happen already and take responsibility.

That's great! Ford stepped up and offered to replace the subframe for you. I just bought a frame earlier this week. Dealer is going to contact ford and see what happens. Do you have any pics of your subframe?

All the pics I have are on my wife's phone. The guy at the dealer has been really helpful and he has been working to find the cheapest parts for us to fix the steering so hopefully it doesn't cost us much

Thats good. Did it get totally fixed yet? How much did you have to put into it for repairs? If you could send me some of the pics that would be great! I'd like to see the damage where it broke.

I just asked my wife to text me the pics of the van damage and she informed me she deleted them off her phone. It broke right at the rear mounts. Both of them rusted through and broke. But it is fixed now. It cost us $349.87 to have it repaired. Then when my wife went and picked it up he said he he talked with ford and they are going to replace the rear axle free of charge as well since it is on recall to. He will call her when it comes in, so she can take it back. The horn and cruise control works now to. It didn't before this happened. He also said gave us a key fob to lock and unlock the doors. I am very happy with the dealership we took it to.

My brother in law still had a photo that my wife sent him, the day it happened

Thats great. Not too expensive to fix and you're getting a new axe also. Looks like you didn't have the original recalls done. I have the recall brackets on mine and its rusting through.

Yes luckily it wasn't bad at all. She takes the van back in on the 24th to have the axle replaced. I was looking at the axle and your right I didn't see any of the brackets from it bein repaired before.

My sway bar bracket that is part of the subframe rotted off. I contacted ford in Dearborn and they said it was not part of the subframe recall. I told them them bracket is welded to the subframe and it it is part of the subframe. They did say if it becomes a recall send them a copy of the receipt and they will pay me the costs. My next auto is not going to be a ford and yes I won't think ford first

Ok! Guess what? My rear axle broke also! Found out there was still a recall to inspect the brackets. Took the van to the dealership and laughably they told me the brackets were put on correct! Hahaha and that I have to pay over $1000 to have it fixed. I am going to call the NHTSA and will update soon.

I had the bracket installed on my rear axle, It looked good but the other day it broke where the axle bracket was. The recall wasn't a fix but a delay of the inevitable.

I have a 2002 Windstar was told the brackets were on properly. The problem is is the brackets are rusting out causing the same problem of the rear axle dropping driver side. It's going to cost me $1,100 to fix. If anyone else is having the problem contact nhtsa.gov or you can call them and file a complaint at +1-888-327-4236.

I had 2000 Ford Windstar and they did both a full replacement on the rear axle and they used large "U" bolts to squeeze my front subframe together. Once they did that front subframe my fully enjoyable riding mini-van became a bouncing nightmare. I tried to figure out the bouncing issue's not even thinking it was the recall causing it. I replaced the shocks, tie rods, struts and even the tires but it still kept shimmying while going down the road. Because of that shaking I could no longer safely take long trips. I finally after 3 yrs of it's bouncing got rid of it...

To all, Wow, this is a very enlighted moment for a me, 20 year veteran Navy and CA windstar 03 and right now I can say that my cal FORD (found on road dead) . ANSWER more like a rehearsed plea for help by many of us about a windstar . I why is the great Chevy dealer wants my Traverse every year and now weekly I get a letter class action suit for it's troubles But no lawyer calls me to sue Ford? I have not seen my under carage van but may have had the recalled done to my van the same symptems are showing up like clock work in California but went to Hawaii for 3 years 2month on a coastal ship rusting away. Ford tough. I will be jacking my car up and inspecting and video of all and post You tube if possible . to give credibility to the Ford says that California is not pron to corrosion . I have 2x motor 2 x trans mount shocks rear front and still have a bang to it the Firestone says its in my head the noise. Well I will see if it is in my head tomorrow. And if it is real problem Ford and all the abreciations will hear. Later. USN Ret. Thanks Tony for the cohonies to call Stephen McHenry Federal Investigator, U.S. DOT National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Office of Defects Investigation NVS-213 Room W48-308 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE. Washington D.C. 20590- 0001 202.366.4883 or 1.877.536.8368 x-64883 Fax 202.366.

I have a 2001 Windstar with 232,000 miles. I had the previous axle recall done where they placed the rear axle support brackets on the vehicle. I received a Recall Reminder (15S27 - Rear Axle Inspection) this week, don't recall getting any previous recall. Apparently this recall (as it applies to me) seems to have come out about 20 months ago. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2015/RCMN-15V608-3801.pdf They said the recall was to inspect the axle reinforcement brackets previously installed under Safety Recall 10S13. Indicating some of those brackets may have been "improperly installed." I'm glad they sent me a reminder notice. I took the vehicle to Ford today, it failed the inspection and they replaced the rear axle beam at no cost. Thanks to everyone who went through hell and didn't take it sitting down, without which I'm sure this recall would never have happened.

my 1999 SEL sub-frame is completly rotten; see the photos. no reaction form Fort or NHTSA

another photo

another photo 3

Today (08/29/19) I took my 2001 Ford Windstar to be PA inspected and I was told there was a crack in the rear axle that you can see through the opening of the bracket they installed, it on has 115.500 miles on it and I owned it from new. Those brackets were installed only to reduce the number of high dollar lawsuits that were going to happen when people started dying in accidents due to this. Ford doesn't care one iota that owners are spending thousands of dollars to fix the poorly designed rear axle they manufactured. I did report it to NHTSA, it may not help us but maybe the next poor owner will be in a better position, for now I'm struggling to decide do I fix it or buy another car (not a FORD).

This just happened today (09/26/19). I live in California where the axle recall does not apply. I am, of course, very unhappy about this.

I have a 2001 Windstar with 234K miles. It’s been great but yesterday the rear axle broke. I had taken it in to my dealer in 2018 for the recall inspection and they did nothing because it was within the 1” parameters of their criteria, whatever that means. So I’m waiting to hear from them on what this is going to cost me.

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I have a 2000 Windstar. high mileage, runs great The rear axle broke in 2010, and was replaced. The recall later reimbursed me. The new axle looked same as old, but it had some bolt-on re enforcing plates on each distal end that were added. This axle broke again in 2024. Sad, because it runs well, and this is NOT the kind of problem that REPEATEDLY plagues normal vehicles that are well maintained, The front subframe broke on drivers side in 2011. The dealer replaced the whole unit per recall and it still looks great.....but TWO rear axle failures? Outrageous. Unacceptable.......