🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Windstar

Year:

1996

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Minivan

Purpose Of Manual:

To provide comprehensive repair and maintenance information for the 1996 Ford Windstar.

Competitor Manuals:

Replaces generic repair guides by offering specific factory data.

Uniqueness:

Exact same manual used by dealership technicians, specific to model, comprehensive A-Z coverage.

Convenience:

Single, easy-to-use PDF manual, printable pages, no risk of damage to original.

Cost Savings:

Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, reducing reliance on mechanics.

Knowledge Enhancement:

Increases owner understanding of vehicle operation and repair.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Coverage Scope:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Primary Focus:

Maintenance, service, diagnosis, and repair

Page Count Estimated:

Varies by specific Ford documentation, but typically extensive for a full service manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

File Type:

Single PDF file

Compatibility:

All versions of Windows and Mac

Portability:

Printable pages

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full service, diagnosis, and repair

Control System:

Engine Control Module (ECM) and related systems

Mechanical:

All mechanical components and systems

Fuel Service:

Fuel system components, injection, and specifications

Emission Control:

Emission control systems and diagnosis

Intake Exhaust Cooling:

Cooling system, intake, and exhaust systems

Lube:

Lubrication system and specifications

Ignition Starting Charging:

Ignition, starting, and charging system service

Auto Transmission Clutch:

Automatic transmission service and repair

Manual Transmission:

Manual transmission service and repair (if applicable to specific models)

Drivetrain:

Transfer propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axle, and suspension

Wheels Tires:

Tire and wheel service, specifications

Brake Control:

Brake system components and control systems

Parking Brake:

Parking brake system service

Steering:

Steering column and power steering systems

HVAC:

Air conditioning system service and repair

Safety Restraint:

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and seat belts

Security:

Engine immobilizer, door locks

Driver Controls:

Cruise control, instrument panel, steering wheel controls

Wipers Washers:

Wiper and washer system service

Interior Exterior:

Exterior and interior trim, body panels, glass, mirrors, seats, engine hood, doors

Electrical:

Complete electrical system diagnosis and repair

Communications:

Multiplex/CAN communication systems

Audio Visual:

Meter, audio/visual systems

Horns:

Horn system

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures and schedules

Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all systems

Repair:

Detailed repair procedures for all components and systems

Troubleshooting:

Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits

Specifications:

Torque specifications, fluid capacities, electrical specifications

Illustrations:

Detailed diagrams and illustrations for component identification and procedures

Depth Of Coverage:

Factory-level, highly detailed

Target Audience:

Professional technicians and knowledgeable DIYers

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF

Printability:

High-quality printable pages

Image Scalability:

Ability to blow up images and print enlarged copies

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF - user selects paper type for printing)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Likely 3.0L or 3.8L V6 OHV (specifics depend on exact Windstar configuration for 1996).

Horsepower Estimated:

Varies by engine option, e.g., 3.0L Vulcan V6 (approx. 145-150 hp), 3.8L Essex V6 (approx. 155-160 hp).

Torque Estimated:

Varies by engine option, e.g., 3.0L Vulcan V6 (approx. 165-170 lb-ft), 3.8L Essex V6 (approx. 200-205 lb-ft).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Likely 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., AX4S or AX4N depending on engine/drivetrain).

Transmission Type:

Manual transmission not typically offered on US market Windstars of this era, but manual gearbox availability should be confirmed by the manual itself.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Requires specific Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), likely MERCON V or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Inches:

Approx. 119.0 inches

Length Inches:

Approx. 190.0 inches

Width Inches:

Approx. 74.5 inches

Height Inches:

Approx. 68.5 inches

Curb Weight Lbs Estimated:

Approx. 3,800 - 4,200 lbs (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs Estimated:

Approx. 5,400 - 5,800 lbs (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Rating 1996:

4-star (Good)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Rating 1996:

4-star (Good)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

All seating positions equipped with lap and shoulder belts; front seat pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player and premium sound systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control system.

Multiplex Communication:

Inclusion of multiplexed electrical systems for integrated control of various functions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact Ford recommendations).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (refer to manual).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on usage (refer to manual for precise interval and fluid type).

Engine Oil Specification:

Likely SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20, API Service SG or SH category or higher (refer to manual for exact Ford specification).

Coolant Specification:

Likely a 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and deionized water (refer to manual for specific Ford coolant type).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 brake fluid (refer to manual for confirmation).

Common Issues 1996 Windstar:

Potential issues may include transmission solenoid issues, coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets (especially on 3.8L engines), power steering pump noise, and HVAC system component failures. Refer to manual for detailed troubleshooting of these and other common problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Heritage:

Ford Motor Company, a major American automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles.

Windstar Introduction:

The Ford Windstar was introduced for the 1995 model year, replacing the Ford Aerostar as Ford's primary minivan offering.

Windstar 1996 Updates:

The 1996 model year saw minor refinements and potential updates to features or powertrain based on early feedback, building on the initial design.

Production Location:

Oakville Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.

Generation:

First generation (1995-1998).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best 1996:

Ford Windstar was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for minivans in 1996.