6.0
fairly significantTypical Repair Cost:
$500.00
Average Mileage:
116,500 miles
Total Complaints:
2 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (1 reports)
- replace intake manifold gasket (1 reports)
cooling system problem
Helpful Websites About 1996 Ford Windstar coolant leak, intake manifold gasket failure
2007Feb 21
(reported on)Windstar LX 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
I had noticed that the interior heater was working intermittently. Then driving I noticed the temp gauge climbing rapidly. I was fiddling with the heater controls (trying to get some heat) and noticed that the temp went down when the heater was off. Got home and found that the coolant was very low. Added a full gallon. The expansion tank was empty and the tube connecting to the radiator clogged. The rate of coolant loss was quite high, dropping about 1" in the expansion tank after a couple of days. The problem is a leaking gasket for the intake manifold. I read about bad head gaskets so this is at least cheaper. I had checked the old for chocolate milk color and oil over valves for froth and that was OK. Moral of story is that if your heater doesn't work check your coolant. It could save you from wrecking your engine.
We have partnered with JustAnswer to offer online auto repair help and advice from expert professional automotive technicians. You describe your cooling system problem or ask your question and they try to help you figure it out. The fee is typically $9 to $15, but you can offer to pay more for really tough questions. You will usually receive an answer in 10 minutes or less, and you do not have to pay anything unless you accept the answer.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2005May 20
(reported on)Windstar
Losing antifreeze, but no evidence of leakage. Dealer replaced waterpump and timing cover gasket. Problem remains but now I notice oil in the engine coolant reservoir.
William C.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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