1998 Ford Windstar: grinding or squealing brakes

Filed Nov 13, 2010 · Body, Steering · 120,000 miles · MS

I own a 1998 ford windstar(manufacture date aug..1997. I have been having problems for a while. My van was making a whining grinding noise. Gear is hard to get out of park bad popping noise when backing up...replaced all 4 wheel bearings and both tie rod ends..still making a bad whining noise.3 days ago I was driving down the highway and the steering started acting weird and shaking and the back of the van started swaying back and forth .. Was told at the shop about the recall on axel I called ford and was told my van is not on the list my van has a excessive amount of corrosion throughout the whole bottom the shop told me this van has been exposed to salt. When I bought the van it had a inspection sticker from previous owner from one of the recall states.(pens) ford would not give me any information onwhat state it was sold in or dealer, what brand of axel that was being recalled (said they didn't know the brand) come on what company spends money on parts and don't even know the brand or manufacture they buy from. I'm scared to death to drive this automobile.. I think ford should honor there promise to its customers and fix this problem on all 1997-2003 windstars not just certain months of 1997 or does someone have to lose there life before they do something? Ford>>> you took our money for your product now stand behind your product.

Filed Jan 28, 2009 · Steering · PA

Tl*the contact owns a 1998 ford windstar. The contact stated that he has been experiencing steering failure ever since the vehicle was purchased. He hears loud, squeaky noises everytime he turns the steering wheel. The vehicle has been repaired by a private mechanic approximately five times, but the failure still persists. His VIN was not included in the federal safety agency campaign id number 97v165000 (steering:gear box:shaft sector). The failure mileage was unknown and the current mileage was 120,000.

Filed Oct 17, 2006 · Steering · 99,000 miles · MI

Dt*: the contact stated there was a grinding noise from the steering wheel when turned. The steering wheel pulled to the right or left without warning while driving 40 MPH. The service dealer and manufacturer were notified, but informed the contact the vehicle was not included in recall # 97v165000 regarding the steering:gear box:shaft sector due to the VIN, although the vehicle had the same problems.

Filed Aug 23, 2005 · Electrical, Suspension · 35,000 miles · CO

We have always had trouble with this van - we bought it used(1 yr old) so we had no recourse as far as warranties go. We finally were able to take it in to the ford dealership and have the light problem looked at - they replaced a sensor for $140 and as soon as we drove 45 miles it started up again! We were on our way on a road trip and I called to tell them it failed, but when we got back two weeks later they claimed that it must be something different... Interior lights do not shut off, removed door ajar chime so we didn't have to listen to that while driving all the time, door ajar light has been on continuously for more than 3 years, we've had to remove the dome lights and turn the other lights to "off" so our battery doesn't go dead over night - the passenger floor lights remain on however and get very hot... The doors do not lock because the car thinks it's doors are open! The car has become dangerous to drive and the problem has stumped too many mechanics to list - when driving above 40 MPH the right wheel starts making a 'thumping' noise and when turning left or accelerating it becomes almost deafening, now it's making a very loud screech if, but don't want to sell this death-trap to anyone else either you turn too sharply - there is a continuous squeaking noise coming from the same area. Please help!! Thank you, [xxx] ps... Cruise control doesn't work and the back wiper only works if you're backing up... Have had the van realigned continually and I just bought another set of tires in june and the left front tire is already worn out... The right passenger's window sometimes doesn't roll back up and the service engine light stays on sometimes for months for no reason as well as the brake light... Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Filed Dec 9, 2004 · Steering · 78,000 miles · MD

The vehicle made a grinding noise and was hard to turn. The mechanic stated there was a recall, however the vehicle was not included for the rack and pinion. Please provide additional information.

Filed Jul 26, 2004 · Steering · 72,468 miles · OH

I had a metalic grinding noise when I steered to the right or left. I took it to my ford dealer for repair and found that the right and left tie rod ends were binding and had to be replaced. I have always had my van lubricated and have found out that these tie rods have no grease fitting for lubrication. I view this as a safety hazard and could result in a serious accident if left unattended.

Filed Sep 5, 2003 · Brakes, Suspension · OH

Consumer called complaining about front brake problems. The brakes squeaked for a long time until they were replaced. Also, front coil spring problems. Consumer started vehicle and a terrible noise came from the front of the vehicle. She stopped, and had vehicle towed to the dealer. Dealer did an alignment, and told consumer that front coils needed to be replaced.

Filed Jan 3, 2003 · Tires · NY

While driving the vehicle's tire rod squeaks when wheel is turning. Please provide additional information. Ts

Filed May 16, 2002 · Steering · VI

When making turns in either direction or going over bumps there is a loud squeaking noise. Dealer cannot find the problem.

Filed May 7, 2002 · Steering · MD

Tie rod end started to wear and made a squeaking sound when making a turn. Dealer contacted. *ak

Filed Mar 14, 2002 · Steering · NY

When making turns in either direction there was a loud grinding noise. While at dealership to have a recall performed, mechanic noticed front tie rod joints needed to be replaced. No grease at all on joints.

Filed Jan 12, 2002 · Brakes · CA

I have complained about these 2 conditions since day one. Now that my warranty has run out, and I'm not working, they tell me I would have to pay. My ABS system is tearing away at my brake pads. The vehical grinds to a stop. To me, this is a safty issue, as I have a 13 month old son. I would hate to apply my brakes, and they are not there. My ABS light is on.....all the time. I am on disability, and have gone to the dealer regarding this issue. As far as the rear wiperm, it goes on when I put the van in reverse.......weather or not the front wipers are on.. Or not.