Target Audience Manual:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, automotive technicians
Competitors Vehicle:
Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan, Chevrolet Venture/Pontiac Montana, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna
Cost Saving Potential:
Enables significant savings by performing repairs independently
Instructional Method:
Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions with pictures
Accessibility:
Instant email delivery upon payment confirmation
Ownership Model:
Lifetime ownership of the downloaded manual
Guarantee:
Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed
Model Years Covered:
1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Trim Levels Covered:
All Trim Levels
Engine Variants Covered:
All Engine Variants
Transmission Types Covered:
All Transmission Types
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (precise count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, engine management (ECM/PCM), transmission (automatic)
Chassis:
Braking system (hydraulic, ABS), steering system, suspension system (front and rear), drivetrain (front-wheel drive)
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system, HVAC controls, body control modules (BCM)
Body And Trim:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, seats, glass, sunroof, bumpers, exterior trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, system repairs, adjustments, rebuilds
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component testing
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive (A-Z coverage for all service and repair procedures)
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Software Requirement:
Adobe Reader (free download if not installed)
Printability:
Printable (pages, chapters, or entire manual)
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
Device Compatibility:
All PC & MAC Computers, Tablets, Smartphones
Engine Option 1 Displacement:
3.0L (182 cu in) Vulcan V6
Engine Option 1 Code:
ESSEX (Vulcan)
Engine Option 1 Horsepower:
Approximately 145 hp @ 4900 rpm (model year dependent)
Engine Option 1 Torque:
Approximately 165 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm (model year dependent)
Engine Option 2 Displacement:
3.8L (232 cu in) Essex V6 (introduced with second generation)
Engine Option 2 Code:
ESSEX (3.8L)
Engine Option 2 Horsepower:
Approximately 190-200 hp @ 4900-5000 rpm (model year dependent)
Engine Option 2 Torque:
Approximately 220-225 lb-ft @ 3500-3800 rpm (model year dependent)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
ECU Type:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Only automatic offered)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MERCON V (Recommended for later models, check manual for specific year)
Control Module:
Transmission Control Module (TCM)
Length:
Approximately 191.7 inches (1998), 199.7 inches (1999-2003)
Width:
Approximately 77.5 inches
Height:
Approximately 67.5 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 119.0 inches
Seating Capacity:
7 or 8 passengers
Max Cargo Volume:
Approximately 130.1 cu ft (behind front seats)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 4,000 - 4,400 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approximately 5,600 - 5,800 lbs
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
Four stars (second generation)
IIHS Crash Test Ratings:
Varies by year and specific test; check specific model year reports.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional (TRAC on some later models)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags on some models.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts for all occupants, with front pretensioners
Audio System Options:
Factory AM/FM cassette, AM/FM CD player, premium sound systems available depending on trim.
Screen Display:
Basic digital display for clock and radio, no integrated navigation or large touchscreens.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Rear Entertainment:
Optional rear-seat entertainment system (VCR/DVD player) available on some higher trims.
Auxiliary Input:
N/A (No standard auxiliary or USB inputs)
Power Outlets:
12V power outlets for accessories
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (conventional oil), consult manual for synthetic oil recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on operating conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type and model year).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (refer to manual for specific coolant type).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (check manual for seasonal variations and specific recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (3.0L V6), 5.0 quarts (3.8L V6) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Red) or equivalent G-48/G-11 type (for 1998) / Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Yellow) or equivalent G-74 type (for 1999 onwards). Consult manual.
Common Complaint 1:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (common in early models with the 3.0L Vulcan engine).
Common Complaint 2:
Transmission issues, particularly concerning the 4-speed automatic, including shifting problems or premature wear.
Common Complaint 3:
Door latch/lock actuator failures.
Common Complaint 4:
Rear axle bearing noise or wear.
Common Complaint 5:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure.
Ford Minivan Introduction:
Ford entered the minivan market in 1995 with the Windstar, directly competing with established players.
First Generation Facelift:
The first generation (1995-1998) featured the 3.0L Vulcan V6 and a distinct styling. It was known for its safety but also had some reliability concerns.
Second Generation Redesign:
The second generation (1999-2003) introduced a significant redesign with a more modern appearance, improved interior packaging, and the availability of the more powerful 3.8L Essex V6. Safety features were enhanced.
Production Location:
Oakville Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Overall Production Span:
1995-2003
Safety Awards Early:
The first-generation Windstar received good safety ratings, particularly in frontal impacts, and was considered a strong performer in its class for its debut years.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings varied significantly by year, with later models generally showing improved reliability over the initial first-generation vehicles. The manual would detail specific recommended maintenance for longevity.
