Ford recalling 462,750 1998-2003 Ford Windstar minivans

Ford is recalling 462,750 Ford Windstar minivans, from 1998 to 2003, due to concerns about the rear axle corroding and failing.

The recall applies to the 21 “Salt Belt” states, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, as well as Washington, D.C. There will also be 113,000 cars recalled in Canada.

Complaints received by the NHTSA cited a complete fracture of the axle, or failure above 40 mph. In one complaint, the axle “snapped in half” after hitting a pothole. The rear tires then proceeded to blowout, as they came in contact with the fenders, and the vehicle then struck a guardrail.

To fix the issue, Ford will inspect and install axle reinforcement brackets, beginning September 27th “as parts become available.”