2003 Ford Windstar suspension problems
254 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the suspension on the 2003 Ford Windstar — 17% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated that while driving over a railroad track at 40 MPH, the rear axle snapped. The wheel hub to the axle was barely connected. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number:15V608000 (SUSPENSION); however, the contact had not received the recall…”
filed Apr 3, 2026
“The contact owns a 2003 Ford Windstar. The contact stated while attempting to reverse, the contact heard a loud sound coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that steering wheel became difficult to turn. A local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was…”
filed Jul 1, 2025
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- Affected vehicles were previously remedied to safeguard against the rear axle cracking…Campaign 15V608000 · Sep 29, 2015
- SuspensionCampaign 12V195000 · May 3, 2012
- SuspensionCampaign 12V194000 · May 3, 2012
- SuspensionCampaign 10V385000 · Aug 26, 2010
Related service bulletins
Safety recall 10S13 - Rear axle corrosion - requests for recall service action
TSB160070 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Apr 21, 2016For 1998-2003 Windstar vehicles Safety Recall 10S13 has been issued for vehicles that are operated in high corrosion areas for an extended period, where the rear axle could potentially fracture. If the rear axle should…
16-0070 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Apr 21, 2016Summary to be provided on a future date.
CSP-15-N-02 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Sep 29, 2015Ford: safety recall on front subframe lower control arm (lca) rear attaching flange or rear body mount that can separate from subframe if vehicle is operated, for extended period, in high corrosion areas. Model 1999-03…
TSB-14-0168 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Sep 9, 2014Ford: safety recall concerning rear axle fracturing if vehicle is operated in high corrosion areas for and extended period. Model 1998-03 windstar. *pe
TSB-14-0167 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Sep 9, 2014
Suspension problems in other Windstar years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 Windstar | 9 | 38% |
| 2002 Windstar | 279 | 21% |
| 2001 Windstar | 416 | 25% |
| 2000 Windstar | 356 | 21% |
| 1999 Windstar | 208 | 14% |
| 1998 Windstar | 229 | 16% |
| 1997 Windstar | 38 | 20% |
| 1996 Windstar | 111 | 8% |
| 1995 Windstar | 145 | 4% |
| 1994 Windstar | 3 | 13% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2003 Ford Windstar
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.