 I purchased my 2001 Windstar, brand new back in October of 2001.  It has always been adult driven and it has been garage kept most of its life.          Engine Issues:   Overall, the engine has been fairly reliable with the following exceptions:  1) Lower Intake Manifold failure.  2) Isolation Bolts under the Plentum Failed.  3) Coil Pack Failed.  4) Water Pump Failed.  I performed all of these repairs at a cost of about $700.         Transmission Issues:  The transmission developed a leak at about 80,000 miles.  At that time, I had the trans rebuilt for $1,600.  Currently, the van has 153,000 and no additional issues.      Body Issues:  1) Rust thru around the gas tank inlet.  2). Paint and clear coat failure on the hood and, fenders and doors.  I did not repair antsy if these issues.    Frame and Rear Axle Issues:  This is where. Ford completely dropped the ball.  The rear axle has had many, many, many complaints to Ford and the NTSB.  Ford then issued a recall in 2010.  Some of these Windstars we're bought back and scraped and others were fixed with a half-ass bracket that was also prone to failure. My axle failed and Ford made me pay $300 to eft it fixed.  Yes, I know $300 is not mustache, but Ford should have fixed it for free.   For a complete explanation on this issue, just do a GOOGLE.  The internet is full of sad stories pertaining to this issue.  The front sub-frame rusted away and failed.  Ford would not fix mine.  I had to buy a new sub-frame and install it myself.    Long story short, of the 25 plus vehicles I have owned, this is the worst one.  I will never buy another Ford!