1997 Ford Windstar: ABS light or ABS activating

Filed Aug 14, 2010 · Acceleration, Brakes · 90,000 miles · MI

My windstar gl wouldn't start. I replaced the range selector switch. When I restarted the vehicle I forgot the reconnect the brake pressure sensor wiring connector and the ABS light came on. I tried to get the code cleared but no-one could access the code. I took the van to the dealer for a recall notice on the speed control system and had them look into why the ABS light was on. I was told the ABS module had quit and needed replaced. The module is $1500.00 and $300.00 to install. That's more than the van is worth. I searched online and found out many other windstar owners are having the same problems. The cruise control system has also quit and the dealer rep. Tells me that the cruise control also goes through this module. With the possibility of fire it seems rather irresponsible for ford to do nothing more than install a fusible link as a safety measure. I am looking into buying a used module to repair the cruise and ABS. The failure is total. Neither the cruise control or the ABS system works at this time.

Filed Jun 2, 2010 · Acceleration · UT

I had my 97 windstar fan fixed due to recall # 09s09:speed control system modification. Ever since then the ABS and parking lights have been coming on. We have had the codes reset, but they keep appearing. I have also called the ford dealer where the repair was done, but they say it is not covered in the recall to check the scds, or that if it wasn't leaking then, they did not have to replace that part. I am very frustrated.

Filed Feb 28, 2009 · Brakes · 100,000 miles · CA

Abs and brake light on same time. Notice brake fluid leak. Refill brake fluid often. Speedometer needle sways erratically for about 2 years. Cruise control inoperable for 2 years.

Filed Aug 17, 2004 · Brakes · MI

Abs anti-lock braking engages during normal dry braking. This causes a lessening in braking just before a complete stop. Could cause a collision by not stopping car within the distance expected.

Filed Jan 15, 2004 · Brakes, Engine · 87,000 miles · PA

I bought this 1997 ford windstar in march of 2003. The very next day I returned to the independent car dealer due to the check engine light was on. They said nothing was wrong and they reset the light. Within a week it was on again and this time they said it was a fluxation in the electrical current and it was making the light come on. They reset it. About 2 weeks later it is losing coolant somewhere and running rough, they check it and now it needs 2 out of 4 oxygen sensors replaced im told. They pay for it if they truly fixed it because about 2-3 weeks later I am havint the same problems so they replace the other 2 oxygen sensors, but cannot explain the coolant loss. Ever since I have had nothing but problems so I decided to go to the local ford dealer even though I try to avoid dealers because of prices and they charge me $58 to tell me I need a head gasket, my ABS system is not working, timing cover is leaking, ball bearing is shot and my antifreeze looks like mud. This is all wrote on a service estimate I asked them for. It would cost about $1700 + tax for them to fix. I have read that ford knew they had a problem with the 95 windstars and the head gaskets and offered an extended warranty or money towards a new car so I feel they know all windstars with this 3.8l engine are faulty not just the 95's. I called ford and they told me tough luck basically. I have read on the internet numerous complaints about the head gaskets in all 3.8l windstars and I want my van fixed.

Filed Aug 29, 2002 · Brakes, Engine · PA

Abs braking light system appears on dashboard. Also there is coolant mixed in with oil inside of engine. Dealership is aware of the problems.

Filed Aug 13, 2002 · Brakes · MI

Right rear brake would lock up after being parked. Would break loose after being dragged on dry pavement for about 20 feet. Abs light would come on sporadically. Had ford dealer replace rear brakes.

Filed Oct 26, 2001 · Brakes, Fuel system · NH

Engine check light, ABS and trac off lights started flashing at 78,000 miles. Car has failed 4 times. Repeated trips to service center, tune-up twice, new battery, new fuel pump. Approx. $1500 paid so far, car continues to fail while driving. Ford motor co.

Filed Mar 23, 2001 · Brakes · NV

Brake pads twice and the brake rotors once needed to be replaced. Abs light and parking brake light in the dash began to flash on and off. Currently, they are staying on in vehicle. Please provide any additional information/attachment.

Filed Dec 28, 1999 · Brakes · PA

I am concerned about the warning lights on the dashboard. When driving this vehicle the ABS brake light along with the emergency brake stay lit while driving and when the vehicle is being used. It also seems that the door ajar buzzer tends to keep sounding while driving. This is a hindrance while driving.

Filed Oct 15, 1999 · Brakes · CA

Abs brake light illuminates for no apparent reason. Mjs

Filed Jul 27, 1999 · Brakes · CA

Abs and brake light comes on when brakes are applied.