Ford Windstar Owners File Class Action Lawsuit Against Ford Motor Company Over Alleged Rusting Of Rear Axle.
A class action lawsuit was filed against Ford Motor Company in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (styled Aaron D. Martin v. Ford Motor Company, Case No. 2:10-cv-02203-JHS) alleging that the rear axle on Ford Windstar model years 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003, because of its unsealed hallow cylinder design, collects and traps water and other corrosive agents causing the rear axle to rust from the inside out, which renders the Windstar’s rear axle susceptible to failing while it is being operated, according to a class action lawsuit news report.
The Ford Windstar Minivan Rear Axle Rust class action lawsuit complaint reportedly alleges two counts against Ford Motor Company: a breach of implied warranty of merchantability and breach of express warranty.
If You Have Thoughts On The Ford Windstar Minivan Rear Axle Rust Class Action Lawsuit, Share Your Class Action Comments Below.
How do I join this lawsuit?
How do I join this class action lawsuit?
I would like to know how to join this to as we just had this happen to us and had to replace it.
our windstar also has a broken axle, how can we be included in the lawsuit
Has anyone who has asked how to join this lawsuit gotten any info. Yet? I haven’t. Also I have had a lot of problems with this vehical -just an FYI there are a lot of recalls on it and some of them have had fires! Search it on the web- I’m still trying to get it all fixed. Dealership not helping much! Ill never buy another Ford ever! I have five children and I feel so unsafe in this! Please comment if you have any info to help- PLEASE!
Our 2001 windstars rear axel just broke. How do we join the class action lawsuit?
I took mine in to be inspected today 9/28/2010 and sure ienough the axel is broken and is not safe to drive. Is it too late for me to join the class action?
our windstar has a broken axle also, how do we juin lawsuit?
How do I join the lawsuit?
My axle snapped – what do I do now?
Please How do I join the lawsuit?
how do we join the lawsuit?
We just got rid of ours!
Very luck my wife was only doing 5mph NOT 65mph. I wonder how many other unfortunate folks lost their lives to fishtailing and rolling over?
I kept great care of that car and it could have had another two years left in it.
Class action? Let me in on it and lets inform the public before one of our loved ones gets whacked by a ticking time bomb built by Ford.
The rear axel broke on Jun 20 on my 2001 Ford Windstar, 140,000 miles. No warning. Luckily we were just backing up the car out of a parking spot. Cost to repair is $1275. Had no idea this was a problem. My 20 year old daughter was driving, could have been catastrophic if we were aqt highway speeds. How can I join this? I think Ford should at least pay for replacement part and notify public of this issue. Car was just family van, not used very hard and not in bad shape.
Contact Damien Zillas. He is the lawyer who is handleing the Class action law suit regarding the rear axles. 215-985-9177. We just traded ours. It started to downshift HARD. Replaced the axle in May 2010 and the tranny 2 years ago. wasn’t taking another chance. 1999.
HOW DO I JOIN THE CLASS ACTION SUIT – THE AXEL ON MY 2001 FORD WINDSTAR JUST CRACKED IN TWO –
wow i’ve been having the same problems =/
These Windstars are all timing out at the same time… 234 complaints logged into NHTSA within a month and a half, and I am now 235. Cracked axle coming off of NJ turnpike with my wife, daughter and several other passengers. This could have been catastrophic if it happened ON the turnpike! Called Ford today and they knew nothing about this. Talked to the service manager at my local dealership and he knew nothing of this.
HOW DO I JOIN THE LAW SUIT!!!! SOMEONE PLEASE HELP US!!!
Ford LIES!!!
All these big companies hire top actuaries that figure out statistically the impact of risk to minimize both emotional and financial loss. Since we are not hearing about Ford’s problem with the Windstar in the media, statically they are still free and clear to not do a recall and dump a bunch of money out into some very old rust buckets (such as my former 1999 P.O.S.) for a fix-up. They are hopping that time eventually kills off these mechanical failures and the problem quietly goes away.
Currently, it’s cheaper for them to pay out on a few lawsuits that may range from just a few thousand and up to a couple of million. Really the rate of payout depends on the jurors index for the value of a life -example…little Susie that is an A+ student and ready to go off to Harvard will command a few million from a big fat hungry lawyer. Little Georgie that is semi retarded will be lucky to even get a lawyer to represent him. Ford is hoping, praying and rubbing their furry lucky charms every day in hopes that they don’t get a bunch of little Sussie’s with parents and legal representatives doing a media blast that will get people to forget all about Toyota and their sticky little gas pedal mess.
My suggestion is to stop wasting time calling Ford on a problem they are so very much aware of and pretend to know absolutely nothing about and proceed to make calls to channel 2, 5, 7, FOX, CNN, Tribune, Daily, Sun Times, etc, etc… Do a media blitz.
Now understand that these media sources don’t want to jump in too soon and alarm. You know why? Because they don’t want to lose a corporate sponsor. It’s all about the money guys. Were just going to have to sit back and wait till someone of importance gets whacked by a flyaway Ford.
The more we write on these forums with keywords such as Ford, Axel, broken, etc, the better. Bring the attention to more Google searchers (like me) your story. And for crying out loud, call the media and bug the living daylights out of them. Hey, they just may be traveling home from work in back of a disaster waiting to happen. Worse yet, maybe their loved one is traveling in one of FORDS FAILURES and I’m not talking about the EDSEL! Key words baby, key words.
File an official complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The NHTSA investigates safety-related vehicle issues & is the government body that forces manufacturers to issue a recall if a safety defect is found.
File a safety complaint with the NHTSA »
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/
NHTSA website »
http://www.nhtsa.org/
If you live in Canada, you should call Transport Canada’s Road Safety division at 1-800-333-0510.
I don’t currently own a Ford, but a friend of mine who came back from a trip to Toronto, we live in Windsor, Ontario across from Detroit, Mich., took his van in for a coolant leak from his block heater and was shown by his mechanic that his rear axle was cracked and ready to break. I’m glad people are taking action against car companies who don’t care about customer safety.
My 2002 Ford Windstar just had the same problem! My rear axle cracked while I was driving with my grandparents and son in the car.
I was going down a hill and the car was hard to control! Thank god no one was hurt! I’ve had to have it towed 2x’s and the part alone is $450.00.
That does not include labor! I’d like to get some info on joining this suit as well!
just happened to us….. on highway in NH about to get off on exit and “snap”… axel broke in two pieces. I have (or should I say HAD) a 2002 Ford Windstar….. thankfully, no one hurt. From what I am reading, this is absurd and someone should be held responsible before someone gets hurt or killed.
Please supply any additional information. This needs to STOP NOW!
WOW…I had a feeling it was something serious. My 2000 windstar has been making noises, especially when in reverse. The last couple days have had a hard time keeping under control especially if I hit a bump or crack in the road. Noticed by back tires look like they are buckling in. Looked under the van rear axle is cracking!! Won’t be driving my van again! Thank God it didn’t go while I was driving 65 mph with my family!!! I’ll be looking into this lawsuit too. I’ve only had my van for less than a year. Thought I finally had a dependable vehicle!
Eileen don’t put your head too far under that van, it will end up getting squished like a grape! That axle will break.
Hey all, I was on vacation a couple of weeks ago and just outside Madison on I94 I seen a Windstar (safely parked on the shoulder -thank God) with the back left tire facing inward. Another one bites the dust! The funny, or not so funny thing was I was just telling my friend about our van story and told him that I had sent an email of this very same web address of ClassAction. What timing!
I’m so afraid that my loved ones or I will be on the road with an out of control Ford Windstar heading toward us. Print up flyers on this problem and leave it on the windows of every Windstar you can. Now!
our rear axel just broke too. would like to know how to join lawsuit
I would like to know more about this lawsuit. I was driving my Ford Windstar a few weeks ago and my rear axel split. Thank goodness I was not on a highway. I had my 3 kids in the car. Ford must do something about this.
Since my axel broke in June, there have been so many more postings. You MUST file a complaint with the National Transportation Safety Authority . John Brennan (above) has given you the web sites but here they are again.
File a safety complaint with the NHTSA »
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/
NHTSA website »
http://www.nhtsa.org/
If you live in Canada, you should call Transport Canada’s Road Safety division at 1-800-333-0510.
Also, the Class Action lawsuit is being handled by Golomb and Honik of Philadelphia. golonbhonik.com
1 215 985 9177
1 800 355 3300
1515 Market Street , Suite 1100
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Talk to Damien Zillas, he was the attorney
It is really important to get these complaints filed with the NHTSA, otherwise we are all just frustrated and complaining in a circle which leads no where. This will take time, but I think more importantly someone’s life could be saved. I NHTSA did respond back to me withint 48 hours and I sent them pictures. They are investigating. I don’t know how long this takes, nor if they are waiting for a certain number of complaints to take action.
File a complaint with Ford too. They did not have much to say when I filed my complaint, but action is taken by companies when the regulating agencies ask them “how many complaints have you had against this type of defect?” If you don’t file the complaint, your voice is not heard.
I’ve been riding around with my Ford Windstar and a brand new rear axel. I keep the broken one the the back of the van. It is very clear that it rusted from the inside out. Every time I have an opportunity to see another Windstar owner at the shopping mall, I pop the back of the hatch and let them see my axel. Forget about the money, I am going to be sick when I see an accident where someone is killed because the back wheels fell off their car.
These cars are older, but not old enough to have this happen. The car was pretty good up until this and I did keep it (probably won’t buy another though). This is about safety. No model of car, no matter what make it is, should have the axels fall apart and cause accidents resulting in injury to the car coccupants and also to anyone else following behind or aside in another vehicle. No one would buy any car if they were told that the axels were only good for somewhere between 70,000 and 120,000 miles. Another concern is that you cannot look under the car to see if the axel is breaking. It rusts from the inside out, so until you can actually see the crack, you are in imminent danger.
TAKE PICTURES. I have great pictures of my broken axel, but infortunately did not take pictures of the broken axel on the car. The wheels were totally turned inward and the axel was on the ground. You know what they say about a picture being worth a thousand words.
Good luck.
Help! My rear axle just snapped in 2 and costs $1000. to fix.
I did file a compalint with N.H.T.S.A. and with Ford, as per recommended by the National Highway Travel Safety group.
Ford doesnt give a damn. Sad!
Does Ford not realize that many American families are buying used Windstars due to the economy, and most of the passengers of those doomed minivans contain CHILDREN!!! Most American families can not afford a NEW Ford.
CALL FORD TO LOG A COMPLAINT AGAINST THEM REGARDING BROKEN REAR AXLE S – 1 800 392 3673
When I called Ford, I was told that no one is calling them to compain
So, start calling!
My 2002 Windstar axel just broke. Luckly, my wife told me the car was swaying and making a noise in the back. Shame on Ford for not letting their customers know about this potential death trap they are driving. It’s a time bomb…
I called both the Ford dealer and Ford customer service, which neither one seemed to care. I think they look at it as job security by turning, in mass quantity, pieces of crap requiring their service to keep them on the road. My vans living up to it’s nickname of BRT (Big Red Turd). I will NEVER buy a Ford ever again!
The Ford dealer wanted $1100 bucks to repair. I did ask them if there was anyway for them to provide assistance with the cost of repair, but their answer was NO. I’m having the repairs done at my local mechanic for $860.
In addition, I did report this to the NHTSA on their web site. How do we get on the class action suite?
My rear axel just broke with 155,000 miles and went to ford gave me the cold sholder when I asked if the will repair it. Only gave me a price of 500.00 for a new one .
My rear axle split in 2 driving down the road in March. Thank goodness I was only going about 25mph due to pot holes. Since that happened it was one thing after another. After about $2000.00 in repairs I ended up selling the van to a scrap yard for $400.00 due to so many problems and I was out of money. I planned on keeping the van for another couple of years even with the other body rust and getting another Ford. NOT NOW! I will get a car from a manufacturer who will stand by their product. So for now my son and I have to share his car.
my rear axle just snapped on the driver side of 2000 ford windstar. Fortunaley I was just going only 25 miles an hour and it just snapped siezeing up my driver side tire almost causing me to get hit in the rear of the car. Pretty scary expierence. Never ever would I buy another ford
same thing with my windstar axel cracked on the highway almost got killed mechanic said $1200 dollers to fix it how do i join the lawsuit
I would really like more information. My rear axel just broke on me a few days ago. I have a Ford Windstar 2000
see my July 29 comment above, all info is there.
this just came out. Aug 27.
A recall??? finally.
I am writing you because yesterday on my way home from Ohio after attending my aunts funeral my rear axle on my 2001 Ford Windstar snapped in 2 going down the interstate @65 mph in the middle of heavy traffic in front of Adventure Land Theme Park. I had my two young children, my brother and his young son in the van as passengers. There was a horrendous loud sound like I can’t explain and heavy black smoke pouring out all over from behind. Everything went in slow motion as we mirraculously landed on the shoulder of the Interstate 80. Trafffic seemed to just flow all around us like something was holding them back as we cut through 3 lanes of heavy traffic to the shoulder. After we came to a stop and saw that we were not hurt. We were so shaken, my brother started to have a panic attack and the kids were crying. My life flashed before my eyes. I truly thought this was the end of our lives. A whole family may have lost their lives due to this recall not behing sent to us before we left for Cleveland Ohio for the funeral. Ford Knew about this problem published August 28, 2010 and neglected to warn my family of this. I had my van checked out the day before we left and gave us the all clear to go. This is unacceptable. Simply repairing the van is unacceptable. I will never drive a Ford Again!!!!!!!!!!
My husband almost had to burry his wife and 2 children because Ford doesn’t care about safety
I am afraid for anyone that drives a Ford Windstar. God took the wheel this time.
Has anyone heard about the latest Ford Recall of all Windstars built between 1998 and 2003. The recall is issued due to corrosion on the rear axle which can cause deterioration and cracks. Took my Windstar in for routine maintenance and they found a crack in the rear axle. Since this is a safety condition they will keep it until it can be fixed. Was offered a free Ford Fusion rental. I was fine with this until I heard that it would take 1-2 months to fix, possibly 3. 3 months without my minivan!!! We are a family of 6! and a 5 passenger vehicle as a replacement for a 7 passenger vehicle is unacceptable when it will possibly be 3 months till I get my minivan fixed. At first I thought it was good that they are taking responsibility for the recall but now I realize it is to avoid a huge lawsuit. For a company that is suppose to be family-friendly this is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!!!! Called the customer relations center and was told there was nothing I can do about this unless I wanted to pay the extra rental cost for a 7 passenger vehicle. I too will never buy a FORD Again!!!!!
Just read over the postings above from this site and lots of other sites. This has been going on for quite awhile (years) and the recall is officially set for Sept 27 (as I understand). Mine broke, and cost $1300 and my claim is in the to get reimbursed. I don’t know why it would be 3 months unless they are short on axles or they don’t want to replace the axle with like for like because the new one will have the same issue as the old (eventually). The dealer fixed mine in one day, but as I understand I do have a brand new axle with the same issues as the old one. I don’t think the car will be around for another 140,000 miles to rust out again anyway.
Both my wife and I own 1998 Ford Windstars. We took the two vehicles to a Ford dealership for repairs before receiving the recall notifications, but just when Ford provided the dealership with rear axle inspection kits/tools. Both Windstars failed the inspection. The dealership kept them, then helped provide us with loaner vehicles.
Ford offered to purchase our Windstars (Black Book wholesale value) plus grant us an additional allowance if we purchased any model of new Fords. We declined because we have steadfastly maintained the exterior, interior, and mechanical components of both Windstars plus their low mileage (64 & 80K).
The two Windstars now sit in a dealer lot, along with about thirty others. We were advised it will be February, 2011 before repair parts will become available. I contacted Ford to determine if we could obtain better trade-in values, but to no avail. It’s like trying to get into a cloister. At $30.00 per day rental for four months, certainly the amount Ford will have to pay for each loaner vehicle might well justify some renegotiation.
My other major concern is our Windstars will remain idle and sit in the dealer lot for four months until repairs are made. That means flat spots on tires, seals drying up, batteries going dead, lubricants possibly turning to sludge, etc. Will Ford pay for these too? Will these claims also be included in the class action lawsuit(s)?
If you choose to let Ford repair your Windstar, please also consider what will happen to your vehicle if it sits idle on a dealer lot for about four months. Should you choose to keep driving it, you will have to sign a waiver releasing Ford from any damages/litigation plus give-up your right to a loaner vehicle. Catch 22!
James,
That’s not right!
If I were you I’d report this to the BBB -Better Business Bureau at http://www.bbb.org. Also, I’d contact channel 2, 5, 7, CNN, 60 Minutes, and save the best for last…#1 rated news FOX for TV media. Then you should contact your local newspaper(s) and why not go for the big guys like the Tribune and the New York Times…why not?
Make this problem that Ford is giving to us THEIR PROBLEM in the PUBLIC ARENA.
James I did file a safety complaint with the NHTSA at
http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/ and I was ONLY 1 out of 238 people in this entire country that notified! Shame on those that are aware of this major issue and didn’t take the time to call or email. Man…somebody’s life may depend on it. Think about that one next time your going down a two lane road at 55mph and so is the other automobile (Windstar) then you both have a head-on. 55+55=110mph. Try hitting a brick wall at 110mph…not a walk away accident.
James it’s just a matter of time until somebody important gets whacked by a Ford Windstar with a failed axle that broke in half.
I have been writing on this site for some time when my Windstar broke and I had it fixed in June. I am happy to report that since the incident and the subsequent recall, I have been refunded the total cost I spent for fixing my Windstar. Patience and following the correct avenues for reporting and filing claim did pay off.
googled about the lawsuit and came up with this “Owners of Ford Windstar who wish to become a part of Martin’s class-action lawsuit may call 610-444-2001.”
http://www.dailylocal.com/articles/2010/05/24/news/srv0000008324349.txt
Our axle broken June 19, 2010. My husband, 2 boys and myself were in the van. Luckily, we were not going too fast. What scares us is the fact that we were on our way to pick up our 3 nieces to take them home, which would mean driving on the interstate. Who knows what would have happen then.
Another victim of the Windstar axle. We took our 2003 Windstar to the Ford dealer for inspection upon being notified of the recall. They found two places where the axle is fractured and impounded our vehicle. How do we join this class action suit?
I NEED THIS INFO !!!!! I recieved a letter about the recall and 3days later my axle broke in half( have pics to prove) while i was driving with my 3 kids in car !! VERY scary. I’ve contacted ford numerous times but they told me that they could not help me anymore than they have. ARE THEY KIDDING ME??? Ford did provide a rental but it is alot smaller than my minivan and is not comfortable for my family. To top it all off ,, I was told I have to pay the taxes on a rental that I could possible have until March!! I AM PISSED !!! Please post some info …I am ready to fight this !!!
Dawn Consolato
How can I join this suite this just happened to me also?
How do I join the class action suit. The rear axle of my 2000 Ford Winstar snapped when I was going 55 mph down interstate. Lost control of car, did 180 degree turn on road and collided with concrete barrier on april 23, 2010. Still greatly suffering from severe whiplash, car was totalled by insurance company.
Ford isn’t even taking seriously enough to make it right with owners. They aren’t paying for a mini van rental ( it will cost you $10/day extra) while you keep paying insurance on a van you can’t drive. If they are offering to buyback your van they are only offering base model value with only standard options, and to top it off now the front control arm is being investigated by NHSTA for the very same problem. I really want to respect and love driving an american made car I can be proud of. Ford I thought would be that manufacturer. Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice. well what is a parent to do?
I to would like to join the Law Suite. Fords dolution when I brought the car in with the defective axle was BUY A NEW FORD !!
I to would like to join the Law Suite. Fords solution when I brought the car in with the defective axle was BUY A NEW FORD !! And we won’t charge you for diagnosing the problem
this has been my third month of renting car because of damaged axcel; I brought car in for coolent change and they impounded my car . I called ford and they said i would have to wait for part to be made. Ican’t beleive that ford wrote a letter telling me that they project parts to be available in February. Why do I have to pay tax on rental from enterprize auto; please help me to join in with class action lawsuit my car only ha 75,000 miles on a 2002 sel. how do we get in contact with lawers handling class actin suit thank you kindly joyce
We bought a used 2003 Windstar . Three weeks later the crankshaft shattered !! had to replace that and the transmission!!! I’m grateful my wife and four year old were only stranded on the side of the interstate and not splattered all over it !!! We have had nothing but trouble with the van since !!! I received the recall letter almost a year later . I would like more info about the class action suits… Mike Rowe , better not show up at my house to talk about ford anything!!
My Ford dealer has had my 2000 Windstar since mid October 2010 due to the rear axle crack. I was offered $2710. as a buyout option, which I promptly refused as I only have 67,000 miles on the van and I put $1,500 into the van in repairs in the past 6 months. I have maintained and cared for my vehicle and I cannot replace my van at $2710!!
I have been told by my dealer and Ford Co. that they will be retooling axles beginning sometime in the first quarter of 2011. Several mechanics I have talked to said they would be surprised if Ford does gear up to retool as this is very expensive to do.
I was also told by my dealer and Ford Co. that my vehicle would be maintained while it was impounded on their lot. I made a visit to the lot yesterday to find an area of minivans packed together like sardines and covered in 6+ inches of snow and icicles hanging from the bumpers. These vehicles have not been moved since they were parked there!! I found my van and the battery was as dead as a doorknob!! And I thought it was good of Ford to leave my van unlocked! The fact that they are NOT moving the vehicles means flat spots on tires, seals drying up, batteries going dead, lubricants possibly turning to sludge, etc. Will Ford pay for these too? I live in Minnesota and I keep the van in my garage all the time, it is never left outside.
As for the rental cars, I went from a minivan to a small Ford Fusion…does not seem like a comparable replacement vehicle. This little car sits so low to the ground it is constantly getting stuck in the snow! Every time I have to dig the Fusion out of the snow I curse Ford Co and the inconvenience they have caused me due to their incompetence!!
I am beyond unhappy with Ford and I will never buy Ford again. I think it is time that Ford admits that they built a LEMON of a vehicle. The 2000 year Ford Windstar has had 11 different recalls!! Ford really needs to step up and take care of their customers!!
I just spoke to the attorney, Damon Zilla, yesterday. He said that all the owners who received the recall letter are part of the lawsuit. The same database is being used for the recall and the lawsuit. He said that, if you do not choose to opt out you are in.
Also please get the word out to media organizations about the recall as people do not appreciate the seriousness and high prevalence of this corrosion. I dragged my feet as the underside of my car appeared almost rust free when I bought it in March, but, lo and behold, my axle has a hole in it.
My rear axle broke when going 55 mph and the vehicle did a 180 degree turn in middle of expwytraffic finally smashing into concrete barrier. Car was totalled and after 8 mos still suffering from severe whiplash. Advise how to join class action or any other suit.
I just searched the internet for info on the lawsuit and found an attorney dealing with it. I am unsure if it is the same one being posted here but a attorney doing a lawsuit on this recall is Damien Zillas here is his number
215-985-9177. I am a owner of a 2002 ford windstar currently part of this recall and in the shop. Good luck to everyone involved in this. Ford took to long and to many lives were lost. Shame on you ford.
I have a 2000 windstar that has now been involved in two recalls the rear axle, which they reapired after 5 months of being in the shop, and now the subframe(front) which ford is saying is not repairable and is offering to buy my car. My car also ran great and i am not in financial shape to add a car payment to my budget but Ford doesnt care about that. I believe if i accept money for my car i am excluding myself from any class actions or if i sign a waiver i am obsolving Ford from any wrong doing.
how do I join this law suit.
I took my 1999 van with 76,000 miles on it in to have it checked when I heard about the recall and was told it was ok and they treated it with something to keep it from corroding. When they get new axles I will be called and it will be replaced. I am assuming it will be later than Feb as they seem to have so many that need to be fixed that are already being held hostage. I just had to have the transmission replaced as it left me stranded on the highway. When I had nasty noises coming from the backend it was the brakes gone bad. I seem to be like everyone else. Can’t afford to buy a new vehicle and am spending too much to repair one that is falling apart way to fast.
Ford currently has my Windstar and says I must take their buyback offer of $3720 (non-negotiable) or sign a liability release form before they will return MY vehicle. How do I join this lawsuit?
O.M.G. Ford motor company is really giving John and Jane Q. the run around. Like many of you I got a recall on my 1999 Windstar one week before Christmas. This recall was for a Cruise Control,(#090s9), which can leak on the engine and cause a fire. When I got this recall the “Little Voice” that my granma always talked about, said “You better get on the Net and see if any other recalls have come out on your van”. You see I just bought my Windstar in July of this year because my best friend lives with me and I take care of her as she has many medical problems and can no longer care for herself. We got the van to help carry her medical equipment. Anyway,what I learned about this rear axle recall got me worried. When I got to the Ford dealer I asked them to take a look at the rear axle as well. As with the rest of you, my axle had a large crack in it, (live in Indiana) and the cold winter helped this along.
As I set in the dealership to get the report on my van I read an article about a Mother who’s Son had been killed while driving his Windstar as the rear axle split in two. This young man’s family got the recall from Ford one week after their Son was put to rest. My heart breaks for this Mother and her family. Ford does not care about their customers that is very clear. In my case they told me that they were going to be keeping my van. They had a rent-a-car on the way,(I’m to pay for gas and tax,(11% per day). I can keep the car until my van is fixed but they said that Ford doesn’t even have a company that is large enough to make the rear axle yet and it won’t be made any sooner then sometime in March 2011. They want to do a buy-back at $2,355.00 but that gives me, like everyone , no trade in vehicle and not enough money to buy another vehicle. In my mind if you are going to keep my vehicle you need to give me another one that is at leaast in the same condition, recalls not withstanding. I’m adding my name to the lawsuit. We can’t let Ford get away with this. As far as Ford wanting us to use the buy-back miney to put down on another vehicle and have a payment again,that’s not for me, I ‘m getting ready to retire .
How do I add my name to this lawsuit. My rear axel cracked as I was driving down the interstate. I have whiplash and go to physical therapy. I cannot find anyone to help me !!!
I own a 2000 Ford Windstar; and I took it to the dealership in Saginaw, Michigan on Bay Road; when they checked it back in December of 2010, they kept it; and gave me (through Enterprise Rental) a 2010 Lincoln MLX; on March 2011, they called me and told me that they had replaced the old axle with a new axle; I asked them about the front axle; they said they checked it and it was okay for now; but they would later send me a letter addressing that issue. Prior to taking my vehicle in; I had the wheels aligned several times within a two week period; because the rearend had been shaking a lot on the freeway. After discovering the bad axle; I realize just how lucky my girl and I was. Prior to me owning this vehicle, my son bout it practically new; and used it with my two granddaughters in it all the time; the thought that they could have been in an accedient as a result of this defective vehicle, is very scary. I thank God for keeping his arms of protection around us. I wasn’t offered any buy back money; even if I would have been, I’m not sure they would have gave me what I put into it; the engine was rebuilt by Strobes Automotive Repair; costing over $2500 a couple weeks before Ford took the vehicle. The replacement transmission exceeded $1500.oo; and other relevant cost including a new starter at $190.00, all of which was not even two months old at the time Ford kept my vehicle. I’m still a little concern; because I’m a private investigator; and an entertainer; and I travel a lot; being on the road is questionable? I’ve been thinking about buy a new vehicle from Ford; I wonder what kind of trade-in would the give me? I spoke with the attorney who is hadling the class action; and he explained to me that there was two relevant issues concerning this situation that had to be resolved. For me one has already been resolved, and that is the repacing of the rear-end axle; and the other deals with “Fraud” when placing custodmer’s life in danger to save a few dollars to sell the vehicle. Ford did say that they would be sending me a letter out concerning the front-end axle; meanwhile, I have to travel to Louisiana; Memphis; Forthworth Texas; San Antonia Texas; and then to California. I certainly hope and pray that I have no serious problems with my 2000 Ford Winstar that would cause harm to me and my girl while we’re traveling the freeways a broad. If Ford offered me a good trade-in deal, I would probable get a new SUV? (By the way; the Ford teem here in Saginaw on Bay Road was very professional; and did provide excellency in their communications with me at all times).
I own a 2000 Ford Windstar; and I took it to the dealership in Saginaw, Michigan on Bay Road; when they checked it back in December of 2010, they kept it; and gave me (through Enterprise Rental) a 2010 Lincoln MLX; on March 2011, they called me and told me that they had replaced the old axle with a new axle; I asked them about the front axle; they said they checked it and it was okay for now; but they would later send me a letter addressing that issue. Prior to taking my vehicle in; I had the wheels aligned several times within a two week period; because the rearend had been shaking a lot on the freeway. After discovering the bad axle; I realize just how lucky my girl and I was. Prior to me owning this vehicle, my son bought it practically new; and used it with my two granddaughters in it all the time; the thought that they could have been in an accedient as a result of this defective vehicle, is very scary. I thank God for keeping his arms of protection around us. I wasn’t offered any buy back money; even if I would have been, I’m not sure they would have gave me what I put into it; the engine was rebuilt by Strobes Automotive Repair; costing over $2500 a couple weeks before Ford took the vehicle. The replacement transmission exceeded $1500.oo; and other relevant cost including a new starter at $190.00, all of which was not even two months old at the time Ford kept my vehicle. I’m still a little concerned; because I’m a private investigator; and an entertainer; and I travel a lot; being on the road is questionable? I’ve been thinking about buying a new vehicle from Ford; I wonder what kind of trade-in would they give me? I spoke with the attorney who is hadling the class action; and he explained to me that there was two relevant issues concerning this situation that had to be resolved. For me one has already been resolved, and that is the repacing of the rear-end axle; and the other deals with “Fraud” when placing custodmer’s life in danger to save a few dollars to sell the vehicle. Ford did say that they would be sending me a letter out concerning the front-end axle; meanwhile, I have to travel to Louisiana; Memphis; Forthworth Texas; San Antonia Texas; and then to California. I certainly hope and pray that I have no serious problems with my 2000 Ford Winstar that would cause harm to me and my girl while we’re traveling the freeways a broad. If Ford offered me a good trade-in deal, I would probable get a new SUV? (By the way; the Ford teem here in Saginaw on Bay Road was very professional; and did provide excellency in their communications with me at all times).
How do I join the lawsuit
Well thank you ford for NOT doing your job informing owners about the recall till you absolutely had to. because of that we have just bought our minivan, thinking we had a nice van, kept up, in great shape, and POOF,… its gone. heard about the recall on the news a couple of weeks after the purchase and its sitting in a storage lot in GOD know where, while we have to make payments on it. if ford would have done their job and put out the notice of recall two freaking years ago when they should have, we wouldnt have bought this van. buy me out and give me the down payment back so we can go get something else that we can actually drive!*!#!*!*! Thank goodness we saw it on the news, because we have yet to get the recall letter…our axel is cracked and the miles we drive on a daily basis is crazy so if we didnt see it on the news, who knows what would have happened. they got lucky not having to deal with a death lawsuit from us!!!!!!!
I brought in my 1999 Windstar on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011 to a local dealer near Chicago for this recall (10S13). It failed their inspection and was immediately seized by the dealer. I now have a $38/day rental (much smaller than the size I’m used to) and have been told that I’m #86 in line at this one dealer for repair parts that have not been delivered since the recall started in August, 2010. They have no idea when parts will be available! They claim they can keep my car for 180 days while waiting for parts! Does anyone have a solution?
Have you heard anything yet? They called today to tell me mine was ready, without any warning. My 2001 has been sitting since late August/early Sept.
I was told by my local dealer that if they seize your vehicle that FORD had to provide you with a rental free of charge to you. You might check into it since the recall and breakage is not a fault of yours
Was driving down I-75 in Detroit and rear axle snapped. Went 180 degrees to the left at 70 MPH. Then went 180 degrees to the right and back to the left. Thank God nobody was in lane to the left or right as I used both lanes. Everyone behind me saw what was happening and hit their brakes. I drive many miles in a year and new this vehicle very well. I Bought it brand new. If my wife was driving who knows what may have happened. It was a day before x-mas eve and was close to spending my x-mas in a funeral home or a hospital. Jacques Nassar who was the CEO of Ford when these vehicles were made kept saying we have to cut costs because Ford couldn’t compete with their competion. Well he cut costs on Axles and almost killed me. In 2001
my windstar the sticker of my windstar was $28,000. The vehicle didn’t last 10 years.
I have a Ford Winstar mini van which the axle broke 2 months ago and the van is now fixed I am scared to death to get back into it and so are my children I joined the class action lawsuit attorneys name is Damien Zillas the number is 18003553300. Ford says the reason the axle is breaking is due to the snow and salt which we dont have here I live in Tennessee and we dont see that much snow and ice here. The Ford here said this is the first one they have seen here that has broken.
My 2001 Ford Winstar has been sitting since Sept. Now they just want to give it back to me saying they fixed the axle. Well, what else is wrong with it? Can I trust their repair. I have read so much about all of the injuries and problems with the axle. They didn’t change any fluids. They said they looked over the vehicle. We all know what that means. …They did nothing. Further, I was given no warning that they were even repairin the vehicle this week. Now they want me to stop everything and just come in and get a 2001 vehicle that’s just been sitting for 5 months. How can I join this suit? Do I have to return their rental?
I Have a 2003 Windstar with 70,000 miles that I took into the dealer because a friend told me about the recall back in early November.I check with the dealer every week to see if they have heard any information from ford on it.I stopped in this morning and was told that there was a new one on the front end that was not released to the owners yet.They told me that ford told them that if the front is bad also,not to bother replacing the rear axles.The problem with this is that I have a ton of money in this van and even if they buy it back the value according to Kelly Bluebook is that the value has went to almost nothing.Are they going to give what the value was before all these recalls.
We own two windstars. When the one had a cracked axle we were thankful it happned after our four children were not in it. We paid the pricey repair bill. Then two years later our 2003 does the same thing. I thought too coincidental. Learned via youtube of the recall. Have numerous issues with overheating, stalls, brake ABS light, fuel odors in each of our vans. We’re a Ford family that is now skepticle of all Ford products.
My 2000 Windstar had a cracked rear axel and when I took it to my local Ford dealership in Southold New York I was told it cannot leave the lot because of safety issues. Today February 16, 2011 it sits three months at the dealership. I have called Michigan several times, called my local Congressman who said cannot help you, e-mail Niel at Fox Business News two times and no help. Ford has paid so far $3100.oo so far and going tomorrow to renew the Ford Focus for the fourth month. Please tell me how we can get our Windstars back I have a suggestion it would be cheaper to replace the car or buy us out but not the price Ford is offering.
HOW DO I JOIN LAWSUIT? MY VAN HAS BEEN AT DEALER FOR 5 MONTHS NOW AND STILL NOT FIXED!!!!
Just brought my 1999 Ford Windstar into the dealer (Massachusetts) and was told it failed both the recalls. I got a rental and on the first day of the rental I was told that Ford is going to buy back for 3,700., was told that I have 24 hours to take the offer. Called Ford Corporate and was told repeatedly that the price was not negotiable. My van is worth more on blue book with the specs. than they gave me. and Ford said that they are offering 150% of the value of blue book , with the “private party sale” giving you the value of the car as if it were in “excellent” condition. That was the bonus (This is suppose to be the standard… it was NOT TRUE!). They did not take into considertation the specs of the car, with all the bells and whistles or the fact that it just had 4 new tires put on and a new DieHard battery installed. The “rude” Ford dealer service worker said that when I get the check (according to them in 7-10 days) I have to return the rental or I will be a private pay for the rental. We asked at the dealership if they are offering incentives to windstar owners to make them want a FORD or to help them along during this “stealing” of our vehicles. The sales man said. They could offer me a $500 rebate on a new 2011 FORD (Are you joking or what!!!) So. Ford must expect the “check” to bring me to find a new car because I can’t shop for a car unless I have money for a car when the check arrives in 7 days I would not expect a car jumping out at me. And when I do find another NON-FORD car for $3,700 -(highly unlikely) and that car fits the needs of my family, who is going to pay the Tax, Title and Registration & state inspection. for my new vehicle that I did not intend on buying. So lets just subtract $500-$1000 off the pay-off price now. If you take the check can you still get in on a class action suit?
I have a 1999 LX Windstar. I have made a complaint to Ford Motor Company and they have insisted I bring it to them for repairs. The whole botom frame and floor assemblies are covered in rust. Some rust throughs. Even if they would replace the rear axle and front sub assemblies, this van is doomed. The floor and frame are one factory tack welded assembly. And rusted almost totally. After the repair, how long before the things they replace on recall fall off because the frame breaks? It is one happy piece on these vehicles. No one seems to put this together. Including Ford. It is a futile effort. NHTSA in the early to mid 90’s put pressure on Nissan to recall ALL of it’s 1987-1990 Vans which had only half of these problems. Is it because of a lower number, is it the cost involved for an American Company? No one seems to understand, in a few years, this is going to be bad. Besides the wiper motor fires, and other electrical fires, brake cylinders mounted in places a contorsinist (?) couldn’t reach. The whole bottom frame and floor, with your engine, drive train and new rear axle and front sub frame are going to go boom. Death and destuction for the owners is imminent.
Hi, I am on S.S and saved my money and three weeks ago bought a 200 Windstar (Or as I am learning, a CRAPSTAR).. I did get it to the Dealership where I was told that they “TRY” to star the vehicles regularly BUT the battery “MAY” go dead and the fuel pump “MAY” go bad and if that does happen, they will give me 50% off on a battery??? I was wondering why I have to possibly buy a new battery and a fuel pump??? I told the girl, “I will drive here everyday & start my car”.. I was told NO… Anyway I was put into a rental.. I got the call & was told the Rear Axel is Cracked as well as the Sub Frame… They told me the rear axel parts will be a minimum of 6-8 weeks and the parts for the sub frame “ARE NOT EVEN MADE YET”… BUT, the girl said “The good news is we are going to fix it””” My question is this??? If they do in fact fix it, how do I know the vehicle will be safe??? And with it sitting in the cold for months, I understand other issues can come up.. Do I have to cover that also??? Don’t I have the right to say NO.. Can I request a buyout myself or do I have to accept this???.. Does anyone know who I can contact to request that I just be bought out??? I have spent the past few days on the internet and do not think I even want to get back into that van … Any help would be appreciated…. If you have any answers to my questions, PLEASE email me @ saturndebbie1234@yahoo.com… THX…
I took my 1999 windstar in fir the recall and thye wouldnt giveit back to me…gave me a rental car for only 5days then thye said iM on my own…and they dont want to give me enough money to pay buy another van of equal stature…and 5days is not enought ime to find another vehicle
I also own a Windstar. My axle split while I was driving with my kids in the car. This happened in October. We STILL do not have the vehicle repaired and Ford will not cooperate with us to get us into a new vehicle. I am so aggravated now.
I have a 2000 Ford Winstar. I replace my rear axle about 1 1/2 years ago. When the recall came out I took my van in and they repaired it. Now the dealership has it and they said that they have not been told by ford when they can expect the kits to repair the front alxe issues. I am in a rental that Ford is paying for. I had my 3 kids in the car and was heading towards the interstate to go visit my mother in the hospital when I rear alxe broke leaving me stranded on the side of the road wit three kids. I contacted for at that time and was told that my van was too old and they would cover the repairs. How do I get involved in this lawsuit?
I took my van into ford and was offered $3720 for my 99 van. I was told that I would have the check overnighted and be available the next day. I was told this three different time. I found a decent car to buy and put my own money down on it to hold it and gave two extra days just in case. Well a week later now and no check and now my car that I was going to buy is gone and I lost my money as they were not obligated to hold any longer and someone else came and bought the car. Now what? My van ran great, but I wouldn’t want to drive it anymore and the car prices are too high to get a descent car and the rental has to go back when I do get the stupid check, but how to I get anywhere to go look for a car when I have no car. I think ford needs to pay for some of these extra expenses like having to drive my van 50 miles to get looked at the gas it had in it, then have to drive another 50 miles one way to sign papers and the gas to go look for anther car. I should not have to pay for all this. I shouldn’t have accepted. Can I still join the lawsuit if you take the money???????
I had my ford Windstar in the shop for 3 weeks got it back april10 2011 and one day later the van was unsteady and making a loud noise they forgot to put the bolts in the passenger side axle.How can I join the suit.And also my two children Husmand me and my sister was in the car as well.It also poped my tire when the axle shifted.Bad deal from the foed company.Kim
Can i keep my enterprise rental until ford gives me the buyback check for my windstar ?
I have a Ford Windstar Mini Van, it is in the shop by Ford for a month. They gave me a nice car but the van has 5 recalls and they said it was unsafe to drive. How do I get to join this class action lawsuit?
how do i join this classaction lawsuit thank you
03/18/2011 Detroit, I am very unhappy with ford in regards to how they are handling this recall. All we wanted was simple rental and yet they can’t make this right. I would never wanted to deal with ford again. Recently they were rated no 1 in quality. They customer service should be rated 0 for customer satisfaction. If you have a suggestion for a lawyer for class action lawsuit please suggest a name.
We purchased a 1999 windstar With conversion kit brand newfor the purpose of transporting our handicapped daughter. It was perfect because it had a sliding door and a television, which made life easier for my wife. The van has 190,000 miles on it but it was functionable, dependable and most inportantly it was paid for. I felt that my family was in a safe vehicle. After reading all the horror stories on the web i’m very gretful nothing happened to my family. That being said I’m very unhappy about the way I’m being ttreated by ford motor company. They have had my windstar for four months but gave me only five days to accept there offfer of a buyout, which dosen’t take in consideration that I put in a new battery, new tire and a $2000.00 transmission overhaul because of Fords inferior parts (sun gear) that left my wife stranded with out any warning thank god it was in heavy traffic. My mechanic said Ford could have used a part of higher quality part and that would not have happened. So winstar owners get ready that one. I think Ford underestimated the magnitude of this problem. In hind sight Ford should have offered a better buyout to Windstar owners because at $30.00 a day times 120 days times 500000 cars comes to $1.6 billion dollars. Is thi cost affective. Ford may need that federal bailout after all. Good luck Winstar owners.
I picked up my Windstar in fall of 2009. Over the course of 2010 I put $6000 into it because I will not get any credit for a new car. 2009 I lost my job and the two vehicles I had at the time were repossessed. I scheduled an oil change and when I got to the dealership they told me about the recall. Well.. turns out that after a preliminary inspection my front subframe will fail the formal inspection. I still have my van and like many am in no position to buy another used vehicle to sink more cash into nor am i in the position to buy something. new. With the price of used cars these days I think Ford should be offering $18000 to all affected windstar owners. For one, we were not expecting this. For two.. how long have they known about this issue and how long have they been putting my life at risk for their slow action? For three… those of us who have these vans and intended to keep them for something like 5 years we just can’t buy a new used car – it’s just easier said than done.
Mine they are not even offering a recall they are saying that because mine was driven in Georgia, that I should have no issure with the frame. They did state however that mine has a speed control issue that they will fix a.s.a.p. expect the transmission is out again ya again, so 2ooo.oo for a new trany then I can take it in to get the speed control fixed.
My name is dennis and i have a 2003 for windstar minvan and my van went in sept 29,2010 and i still have not gotten my van back. Every time that i call the delar to ask about the van and when it may be done they tell me that Ford is sending out the parts by vin # and they do not have a date of when the parts will be avabile for my van this is getting annoying i have 2 kids and the car that they put me into is small and also my wife is a bigger ladie and she does not fit in the car very well when i call enterprise and ask for a bigger car they tell me that for will not let them give out suvs or vans or any thing bigger then a car yea it is nice that i have a free car to drive but i can not do any thing with the car i cant smoke in it i can not haul any thing in it this whole recall is so messed up i think that the ford company should buy all of the fords back.But when you call the company they say that they are not offering any buy backs for the 2003 min vans and when you call the dealer they are only offering about 2500 for the dam van well i can tell you that i owe 3500 on the van and that will mean that i sell the van and still have to pay for something that i do not even have any more all i want is about 5000 so i pay off what i owe and and buy a new car well a used car for the ford company so what can i do i am at my wits end about this hole thing i want to take it to another company and sell it to them but if i do i will have to pay the dealer for all that they have done to the van IE(storage, matince and all that they have done to keep it working) well i think that this hole recall it bull shit sorry about the foul ness of my statments
I took my 2000 windstar in for the recall today, and they said the law won’t let them give my car back to me! That they had to take pictures and send it to the company, the front axle is cracked. I have a free rental car, but, boy, Im crossing my fingers they REPAIR my van because I can’t afford to buy a new car, paying on 3 college loans for my kids now. Everyone please cross your fingers that they repair it and not pin me down with a new, huge bill. I was hoping it would make it another 3 or so years!
my windstar went in first week of jan – never heard anything and even called ford dealer begin of march – finally yesterday call ford customer care – concerned about if got back any other issues that may arise since my van had less thatn 80,000 for a 2000. they called the dealer who said they move the vans and also start them. she was told by the serv mgr.- she also said there was a second recall of the subframe front lower control arm rear attaching flanges and read body mount attachments. The customer care rep said both were repairable. last night we drove by and saw so many in a lot with flat tires, etc. and finally found ours – just so happened to be outside the bay doors of service. Got a call today from dealer saying the subframe was not repairable and a buyout of 4253.00 was offered and have 5 days to decide. Called back customer care they read the notes of the call yesterday but was not noted was repairable. The rear axle recall they would get the parts but not for the subframe as not all parts are made by ford. that is why the buyout as they cannot get those parts. I cant afford another new vehicle that was why we keep our vehicles in excellant shape. The said there is also an offer for their customers for 2000.00 toward a new ford but that offer ends april 4. With the economy being like it is and prices soaring and this being a manufacturer fault they should be willing to do more for customer loyalty with all the defects that arose. We should be able to get a vehicle at cost or employee cost – as little expense out of our pocket as possible especially if they want customer loyalty as that door swings both ways. This certainly does not want me to purchase another Ford product. Let me know about the class action suit. PLEASE. I am not one for this , but now am so disillusioned by ford.
If I take the buy out which is ridiculous can I still be in the class action suit – i have 4 days to decide. Who is going to pay the title, taxes and all other fees besides now having to take a loan I cannot afford to have a vehicle to drive. Shame on you ford – you should have tried to accomodate loyalty of you product but offering employee discount besides the buyout and what ever other incentives as this was your fault not ours and we should not have to put more out of pocket on a vehicle i had not intended to sell or replace. you may think it is fair but ask the public what they think. How many recalls were on this particular vehicle. Shame on you!
I have a 1999 Windstar that the dealer said was usafe to drive and unrepairable due to the subframe corrosion. I refused their offer and they gave me the van back even though Ford says it is unsafe to drive!
How do I join the Class Action Lawsuit?
I’m in Massachusetts. I have a 2001 Windstar that just got seized today. The problem is with the front subframe not the rear axle. If it was the rear axle I could get a rental until it was repaired (that could be for months) but because it’s the front subframe I only get a 5 day rental.
I’m confused: The terminal problem with the front subframe gets you a 5 day rental while the chronic problem of the rear axle gets you a long term rental? What’s not making sense here?
I love and use my van for transporting honeybees. I love it much like an old shoe. The Ford Custom Service has been professional but Ford Corp. hasn’t been understanding. Does anyone now about the class action suit? Does anyone know of a good replacement for a van? Maybe I’ll have to change my email address.
Good luck to all.
Dave
We have a 2001 windstar I take it in on Thursday for the front Subframe. My Brother who is a mechanic looked at it this weekend and said that the metal around the mounts to the sub frame are swelling and flaking and rusting, Of course he can’t see what is under the rubber mount. I am sick. I really hope they can fix it. Has anyone else had them fix the front subframe? Can they fix it at all? I really love my van.
We just put in a new transmission and had head gaskets and all the belts replaced and tuned up. Also replaced power window buttons and motors under the power seat. Sunk 3000 in last summer. Intended to drive it for several more years. I am just sick at the thought of having to buy another van. Let me know if anyone knows how they are figuring the buyout amounts. On all the blogs it seems there is a very drastic fluctuation on the buy out amounts.
My Van was purchased in Georgia, so Ford is telling me it is not part of the recall. Can this be right that just because I live in another state that I will not be part of the recall, I moved to Missouri shortly after buying the Van but the transmission keeps going out on it, so we have not even been able to drive it thankfully, let me know how I can join the law suite!
Sandy
The rear axle on our 2002 Windstar broke in 2 places while my husband was driving back in September. We finally got our van back at the end of January. We had several issues with the shape of our van when we got it back but Ford told us that the only thing they were responsible for was the recall itself. We were not impressed. We took it to be inspected in mid February after fixing everything and it failed due to the front subframe (2nd recall) so I got it to a Ford garage and after inspection they said it’s unsafe again. So once again we are in a rental. Enterprise has been wonderful to work with for us. I have heard nothing whatsoever from Ford. This van was our 5th Ford and will be our absolute last. When I contacted Ford their response was so ‘prepared’. Just disgusted with the whole process. You’d think they’d want to make everyone happy so they’d want to return.
How do we get into the lawsuit. Ford paid over $6,800.00 on a rental car instead of putting that money towards a new car of our choice. I’m sure they think they are saving money this way. Screw the customer should be their motto
I am in the same boat they offered me 2k rebate plus the trade in value and another 2k if i buy a brand new focus for 18k. cannot do another loan
I want to join in the class action lawsuit, how do I join. Please let me know who to contact.
I’m without my 2001 Ford Windstar because of recall of Axle and Subframe problems. Ford will not give me a rental and is telling me I have to wait til they get the parts in to repair my van. They also said,
“they do not know how long it will take.” I am being inconvience all the way around because they messed up on building parts correctly.
I want to know how to get involved with the class action suit. This is my second post here and I am so through with ford. They have had our van since the beging of Dec and we don’t have it back, but they fixed one that came in 4 weeks ago already. Please let me know how to join the suit.
How do you join the lawsuit???I would love to see this go through with all the aggivation and waiting and the rediculous amount they offered us to buy back the minivan when most of us don’t have jobs anymore !!
My Cincinnati Ford dealership has had my 2000 Windstar since 11/12/10, which will be 6 months next week. It is unfathomable to me that a company can take your vehicle hostage for that long of a time. They have paid for a rental car for all of this time, but the Toyota Camry has not been adequate transportation for our family of seven; there’s a reason why you buy a large passenger vehicle! We were offered a buyout, but (as others have stated) it was not enough to replace the vehicle with a comparable vehicle since the value in the Kelly Bluebook has dropped on the Windstar in addition to the other fees involved in purchasing a different vehicle. The dealership that initially seized our van went out of Ford dealership business, so our van had to be transferred and towed to another dealership last week. I was told by this lastest dealership that they had repaired all the Windstars they initially had on their lot, so I believe anyone at our old dealership must have been put at the bottom of the repair list just waiting to be transferred by Ford Motor Co. for repair. Here sits my van, which is normally garaged during the winter, out on a non-dealership lot to freeze and let other parts to get damaged while waiting 6 months to be serviced! I was told it would be re-inspected for the cracked rear axle and the second recall of the front subframe (which they say they have all the parts for repair). What course of action can we take if the van has other parts that have been damaged over the six months that the vehicle has been sitting out in the winter weather? I would like to know further information about this class action lawsuit.
I own a 1998 Ford Windstar the rear axle broke 2 months ago now I am learning of another recall of the subframe I am not really sure about driving this vehicle since its been nothing but trouble since I have owned it they are trying to blame it on high snow areas but not true I live in Tennessee where we hardly ever had snow. I contacted the lawyer today and he said Ford was saying it doesnt happen to vans who are in low snow areas but we know now that it does. They have repaired my van and I am supposed to pick it up this week I am going to have it checked out by someone else to see if it has subframe damage also. Ford needs to stand up and do something about this. They knew about it far too long and did nothing.
I hay van ve a 1999 Ford Windstar that I bought at a Ford dealership outright cause during these day and ages I can not afford a car payment. I called in March 2011 for the second recall cause according to ford my rear axles were inspected and fine and got in for the second recall in May. I explained to the guy at Byers Ford in Ohio that you could make a milk shake in my van cause when you put your foot on the break the van actually shook sooo bad and was told it was my rotars. 4 hours later i get a call that my van did not pass the subframe inspection. Go figure. I am not one to complain but after seeing what some people are saying that Ford is offering buybacks for our vans is outrageous. We have been driving in faulty vehicales and put the safety of ourselves and our families and friends and all they want to pay is a few thousands is rediculous. The rental they have me in is a 2011 chevy traverse and it drives so nice. It would be nice if they would just give us the rental car and say sorry. I am not for money. I just want a safe reliable vehical that I do not have to worry about driving down the road and wondering if this will make it to where we need to go. Does anyone know the number for the attorney that is doing the lawsuite here in ohio? Please let me know.
I turned my 2002 Windstar in to the Park Ford dealership in October & til this date I have heard not a word from them June 4,2011.I have contacted Ford headquarters & have spoke with customer service about buying my van back & they keep telling me they wont buy back my year.I have asked to speak to a manager which they refused to put one on the phone for me stating they know the same info as them & there is no need for me to speak with one.Heres my concern,I do childcare….I will not ever feel safe in my van ever again let alone to put precious babies in my car.My van has been sitting for all most a year now.I have been by & its not been moved.Do they not realize what a car sitting does? Bad belts,breaks,break lines,rotors etc.If it gets fixed I will have the biggest piece of unreliable crap on my hands! A death trap! You cant do that to a car with 130,000 miles on it! Yes they have provided me with a free rental & I did get a mini van so
I turned my 2002 Windstar in to the Park Ford dealership in October & til this date I have heard not a word from them June 4,2011.I have contacted Ford headquarters & have spoke with customer service about buying my van back & they keep telling me they wont buy back my year.I have asked to speak to a manager which they refused to put one on the phone for me stating they know the same info as them & there is no need for me to speak with one.Heres my concern,I do childcare….I will not ever feel safe in my van ever again let alone to put precious babies in my car.My van has been sitting for all most a year now.I have been by & its not been moved.Do they not realize what a car sitting does? Bad belts,breaks,break lines,rotors etc.If it gets fixed I will have the biggest piece of unreliable crap on my hands! A death trap! You cant do that to a car with 130,000 miles on it! Yes they have provided me with a free rental & I did get a mini van so I could continue my job but I had to add full coverage which is costing me more money,I bumped in to a pole a week ago at the gas station which will now cost me 500.00 in deductibles after being so paranoid and careful for 8 months.They have payed a little over 8,000 for me to rent this van…doesn’t make any sense to me! Actually it does….the consumer will eat there mess up when the buy a new car! These cars are not road worthy anymore & Ford doesn’t want to fess up and say they made a mistake because they are the American car company….Please tell me how I can join this suit please! I have contacted news channels & nobody will help!
Amy,
Do not trust Ford even if they ever get around to fixing your van they will tell you it is safe when in fact it is not. I am going through the same thing. Please dont put children in your van. Mine is sitting in driveway after they said it was safe yet I could not get an inspection sticker as it failed due to rotted subframe and structual integrity. I dont know what to do. Once the dealerships declares it safe they wash their hands of you. They dont care if you cannot pass a state inspection. I live in NH and not sure what to do. I had my last phone conversation with Ford today and they are standing by the dealership and the service dept. They do not care I failed inspection for safety issues.
Best of Luck to you
Be safe!
Can anyone help me? I have a 2003 Windstar with 136800 miles. It’s paid off. I called the dealership about the recalls and was told they do not replace the rear axle. They say if it is cracked they will use an apoxy to fix it. Is this safe? Why would they stop replacing the part if it is faulty. If I take it in can I refuse to take it back without a replacement part. Does anyone know when they decided not to replace the parts and go with glue?
Does glue fix rust? I’m not a mechanic but that sounds silly. Help
My 2000 Ford Windstar rear axle just snapped in half. One month after the dealership inspected it. It has been well maintained and has been a good vehicle. If I can get it repaired I will. This one is on them though.
This one is way beyond what an owner should be expected to deal with.
Operator habits and driving should never have caused this. It’s going to the dealer tomorrow, and they are going to fix it on there dime!
I just 3months ago had the axel inspected it was given a clean bill of health. Today it broke with my family in the car. Who do I see to get this fixed and my out of pocket paid for.
Ken
Just got our 2000 Windstar back after five months with a totally dead battery that Ford is refusing to pay for. They had to jump it to get us off the lot (should have refused to leave the lot!) Both dealership and Ford admit it is their fault but that they will not pay for it. This is such a clear cut case it would seem. Ford is doing this because they think they can.
I had both rear and front axel “repaired” by ford dealership after it sat for 3 months on lot. When I went to get inspection sticker it failed due to structual integrity. The dealership McFarland Ford Exeter NH said they met Fords criteria so they will do nothing for me and they do not follow the criteria of the State of New Hampshire they follow Fords. So now I have a failed inspection sticker and my mechanic said its a death trap an accident waiting to happen. Shouldnt Ford have to follow the safety criteria of the State. The “customer care rep” told me I should take State Inspection officer to Ford dealership so they COULD SHOW HIM why my van is safe. What do I do I am in tears, I cant not afford another car as I am unemployed!!!
I just had my 99 winstar in for recall they said the frame is what they look at Not the rust around it. or the rotted motor mount. this car has rust problems that have every thing to do with safety, I asked them to buy it back. they said we dont do that any more. I ask for a rental, they said they dont do that any more. so Iam putting a message in my back window that states if you want to be cheated, on your money, and safety, just buy a ford. they just gave me my car back to me to drive, because the axle only has a crack, its not broken yet.
My 2001 Windstar’s rear axle broke @65mph on interstate 80 in heavy city traffic on a holiday weekend with my kids and family in it. Ford almost killed my whole family and others in the path. Ya, they gave me a rental for 4 months and the whole nine yards, put a patch on the front subrame, whatever… But the fact is the van is still unsafe, we paid for a vehicle and expected it to last at least 10 yrs/100000 miles. We only had 95,000 on it. SHAME ON FORD. I’m in no position to make pmts on a new vehicle in the middle of this recession. SHAME ON FORD. I’m still driving the pos. FORD DOES NOT CARE ABOUT THEIR CUSTOMERS. FORD what goes around, comes around.
My 02 Windstar was recalled,inspected and patched. Of those that have had your axle break had it been patched or did it break before the recall. My axle did have surface rust on it, but they said it was not cracked so they sealed it and attached a bracket. Just wondering if I’m safe driving it.
I wouldn’t drive it. We had the same repair done and the axle still broke. I returned it to the dealer ship. They contacted Ford, but Ford denied a replacement axle claiming they performed the necessary recall work on the vehicle.