Recall 10V-385: 1998–2003 Ford Windstar

FORD MOTOR COMPANY recall for suspension, reported to NHTSA on Aug 26, 2010, covering about 492,650 vehicles.

NHTSA number
10V-385
Report date
Aug 26, 2010
Vehicles affected
492,650
Owners notified
Oct 20, 2010

The problem

Ford is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 windstar vehicles manufactured from september 1, 1997 through february 28, 2003 and currently registered or originally sold in connecticut, delaware, district of columbia, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, and wisconsin. After many years of vehicle service in these areas, corrosion can weaken the rear axle, making it susceptible to torsional stress. Corrosion and stress can lead to cracks which if undetected can propagate and result in a complete fracture of the axle.

The risk

A fractured axle can affect vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.

The fix

As parts become available, dealers will inspect and if necessary install the rear axle reinforcement brackets free of charge. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on october 20, 2010. Owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.

Notes

Ford's recall no. Is 10s13.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .

Recall details

ManufacturerFORD MOTOR COMPANY
ComponentSuspension › Rear › Axle › Non-Powered Axle Assembly
Recall started byNHTSA (Office of Defects Investigation)
NHTSA campaign number10V385000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Ford Windstar1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003All years

Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall 10V-385?

Ford is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 windstar vehicles manufactured from september 1, 1997 through february 28, 2003 and currently registered or originally sold in connecticut, delaware, district of columbia, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, and wisconsin. After many years of vehicle service in these areas, corrosion can weaken the rear axle, making it susceptible to torsional stress. Corrosion and stress can lead to cracks which if undetected can propagate and result in a complete fracture of the axle.

How is recall 10V-385 fixed?

As parts become available, dealers will inspect and if necessary install the rear axle reinforcement brackets free of charge. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on october 20, 2010. Owners may contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.

Is the recall repair free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.