1996 Ford Windstar: fuel leak

Filed Sep 25, 2012 · Fuel system · 170,000 miles · TX

Noticed fuel leak when returned after parking at slanted parking space. Inspection by licensed mechanic in columbus, ohio confirmed fuel tank leak. Removed tank for further investigation and found crack. Repaired by same mechanic. Total cost close to $300.00. Now no gasoline leak.

Filed Oct 18, 2011 · Fuel system · 150,000 miles · NC

The vehicle had a fuel leak at the fuel tank. I removed the tank to see that the tank looked like it was pinched and developed a crack. The fuel tank is plastic so I found this to be odd. I had to put epoxy on the tank to patch the crack so I could get it home as I was out of town when this happened. When I got home I started looking online for a tank and found that ford had a recall on this matter. I called lafayette ford and explained the recall and gave my VIN #. I was told that my vehicle does not fall under the recall that I will have to repair it myself. If I have the same vehicle of the recall and the same problem of the recall why does ford not honor it. The recall states the crack at the front strap area and that ford will replace the tank and the strap with a longer one and a bushing. My tank has the crack at the front strap and the tank was pinched because the strap is too short.

Filed Aug 21, 2010 · Fuel system · 175,120 miles · OK

1996 ford windstar fuel tank has a crack in it and is leaking fuel I see the recall only effaced 1995 windstars but apparently the problem was not fixed on the 1996 windstars because mine has a 3 inch crack in it. I do not know if some of the 1996 windstars were in this recall.

Filed Jun 10, 2008 · Airbags, Fuel system · 92,000 miles · FL

On june 7 I was outside of our home and noticed I smelled gas near my wife's van. After inspecting I saw the tank was leaking fuel. I took the tank off and noticed there was pressure to the tank from the front strap. The pressure caused what appears to be a stress crack where the strap holds the tank. It appears to me the strap is too small for the tank. Ford refuses to fix this and would rather my wife and children ride around in a gas leaking danger machine. This vehicle has less than 95000 miles and I feel the same problem has occurred here as in the 1995 windstar.

Filed Feb 6, 2004 · Engine · 160,000 miles · SC

Fuel was leaking into the converter. This caused the vehicle to overheat, and smoke started to come from under the hood. Dealership informed the consumer of the problem, but did not resolve it.

Filed Jan 16, 2004 · Fuel system · FL

The consumer stated gas leaked from one of the straps which supported the fuel tank. Please describe further.

Filed Jun 8, 2002 · Fuel system · AZ

After filling at gas station, noticed fuel leaking from top portion of tank. Had tank replaced at local shop. Cost of tank $250 plus labor and misc. Parts.

Filed Jan 31, 2002 · Fuel system · FL · fire

While driving approximately 65 MPH windshield started to fog up. Driver rolled down window for driver's door when a "popping" noise could be heard, and flames could be seen coming from vehicle. When vehicle was stopped, heavy smoke started coming from under the hood, and vehicle was engulfed in flames. A fire lieutenant suspected that fire was due to leaking fuel in engine compartment. Vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer or insurance company. Please provide any additional information / documentation.

Filed Aug 9, 2001 · Fuel system · FL

20 gallon tank has cracks in it. Fuel is leaking all over the ground. Consumer has taken vehicle into dealer. Please provide any further information.

Filed Jul 13, 2001 · Fuel system · AZ

Plastic fuel tank has split causing fuel leakage. Consumer is stating fuel tank should not be made out of plastic.