5.3

fairly significant
Typical Repair Cost:
$1,030
Average Mileage:
127,000 miles
Total Complaints:
6 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (5 reports)
  2. replace IMRC valves (1 reports)
1996 Ford Windstar engine problems

engine problem

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1996 Ford Windstar Owner Comments

problem #6

Mar 282007

(reported on)

Windstar 3.8

  • Automatic transmission
  • 139,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

first it was code 301, #1 cyl misfire. then after resetting 3 times about 200 mile interval, light went off again only about 40 mile P301, and P1537, first P1537!! I will try cleaner in intake manifold. Second developed rattle front exhaust, no leak, maybe cat or flex??

- Stan Z., Massapequa, NY 11758, US

problem #5

Mar 132007

(reported on)

Windstar 3.8L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 130,000 miles

Had these codes and check engine light. You can wire the valves shut but open or shut you will notice little difference in performance. I ended up replacing both of mine. It's not difficult and easy to diagnose. Pull off the vacuum tube and manually push the rod in then seal the nipple of the valve with the tip of your finger. If the valve is functioning the rod will stay in indicating that the valve diaphram is not leaking. If it pops back out, it is leaking and should be replaced. You won't notice the difference while driving but that code(s) will be gone leaving room for additional codes. Since it is a Ford Windstar it won't be long before you have some brand new codes to research.

- Doug B., Jackson, MI, US

problem #4

Nov 192006

(reported on)

Windstar GL 3.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 168,059 miles

I bought this Minivan in April 2005. I have owned it for a little over a year and a half and have had it in the shop at least 5 times. My check engine light came on about 3 days after buying it and is always on! I have taken it to several places to be checked and no one is giving me an answer. It doesn't stall or anything it is just extremely annoying! And very aggrivating that no one seems to be able to answer my questions about it.

- Anna R., Rosebrug, OR, US

problem #3

Jul 072006

(reported on)

Windstar LE

  • 99,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

Same as the others, No matter what I've tried the code comes back. The IMRC Valves are located on the back of the intake and are listed as an item that the dealer needs to diagnose and repair..

- George M., North Huntingdon, PA, US

problem #2

Apr 192006

(reported on)

Windstar

  • 118,000 miles

We just purchased this from a dealer who claimed a former ford employee kept this van in immaculate shape. He never had problems. Now the check engine light is on with the P1537 code. I don't know how to fix it and how much it would cost. Also if it goes unfixed, will it cause more damage to the engine??

- Melinda S., Blue Ridge, GA, US

problem #1

Feb 152006

(reported on)

Windstar LX

  • 107,655 miles

HAVE ENGINE CODES P1537 & P1538 WHICH ARE INTAKE MANIFOLD RUNNER CONTROL STUCK OPEN BANKS 1 & 2. i talked to some people and they told me in was a loose vacuum line & the Throttle body needs to be clean. so i check for the lines could not find any loose, cleaned the throttle body. the code did not come on until after 10-15 miles. the van runs good no noise, no jerks no bangs no leaks, transmission was serviced 3000 miles ago it starts good. besides the windshield washers not working i have no problem. can you help please. the car has only cost to run ( not including ins) 655.00 a yr i have had this van since 1995 bought it new.

- Pat A., Las Vegas, NV, US

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