The Recall Desk
SevereNHTSA·12V193000·Announced 2012-05-03

Ford Recalls 1998-2003 Windstars for Rear Axle Fracture Risk

Ford is recalling 1998-2003 Windstars in Virginia because corrosion can weaken the rear axle, potentially causing a fracture that affects vehicle handling.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect (rear axle fracture) that can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles manufactured between September 1, 1997, and July 3, 2003. This recall specifically affects vehicles currently registered or originally sold in Virginia. The defect involves corrosion that can weaken the rear axle over time, making it susceptible to torsional stress.

If undetected, corrosion and stress can lead to cracks that increase and result in a complete fracture of the axle. A fractured axle can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash. No specific injuries or crashes have been reported in the source text.

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and install rear axle reinforcement brackets or replace the axles as necessary. This service will be performed free of charge. The recall began on June 19, 2012. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

The recalled product

Product
FORD WINDSTAR
Brand
FORD
Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Category
Vehicle — Minivan
Hazard
Affected units
27,000

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Model numbers (1)

  • WINDSTAR

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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