🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Ford Model: Windstar Year: 1996 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Minivan Purpose Of Manual: To provide comprehensive repair and maintenance information for the 1996 Ford Windstar. Competitive Analysis Competitor Manuals: Replaces generic repair guides by offering specific factory data. Key Features Uniqueness: Exact same manual used by dealership technicians, specific to model, comprehensive A-Z coverage. Convenience: Single, easy-to-use PDF manual, printable pages, no risk of damage to original. Benefits Cost Savings: Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, reducing reliance on mechanics. Knowledge Enhancement: Increases owner understanding of vehicle operation and repair. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Coverage Scope: All models and all repairs A-Z Primary Focus: Maintenance, service, diagnosis, and repair Page Count Page Count Estimated: Varies by specific Ford documentation, but typically extensive for a full service manual Language Language: English Format Digital Format: PDF File Type: Single PDF file Compatibility: All versions of Windows and Mac Portability: Printable pages 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Full service, diagnosis, and repair Control System: Engine Control Module (ECM) and related systems Mechanical: All mechanical components and systems Fuel Service: Fuel system components, injection, and specifications Emission Control: Emission control systems and diagnosis Intake Exhaust Cooling: Cooling system, intake, and exhaust systems Lube: Lubrication system and specifications Ignition Starting Charging: Ignition, starting, and charging system service Auto Transmission Clutch: Automatic transmission service and repair Manual Transmission: Manual transmission service and repair (if applicable to specific models) Drivetrain: Transfer propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axle, and suspension Wheels Tires: Tire and wheel service, specifications Brake Control: Brake system components and control systems Parking Brake: Parking brake system service Steering: Steering column and power steering systems HVAC: Air conditioning system service and repair Safety Restraint: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and seat belts Security: Engine immobilizer, door locks Driver Controls: Cruise control, instrument panel, steering wheel controls Wipers Washers: Wiper and washer system service Interior Exterior: Exterior and interior trim, body panels, glass, mirrors, seats, engine hood, doors Electrical: Complete electrical system diagnosis and repair Communications: Multiplex/CAN communication systems Audio Visual: Meter, audio/visual systems Horns: Horn system Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance procedures and schedules Diagnostics: Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all systems Repair: Detailed repair procedures for all components and systems Troubleshooting: Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues Wiring Schematics: Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits Specifications: Torque specifications, fluid capacities, electrical specifications Illustrations: Detailed diagrams and illustrations for component identification and procedures Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Factory-level, highly detailed Target Audience: Professional technicians and knowledgeable DIYers 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely searchable text within the PDF Print Quality Printability: High-quality printable pages Image Scalability: Ability to blow up images and print enlarged copies Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF - user selects paper type for printing) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Likely 3.0L or 3.8L V6 OHV (specifics depend on exact Windstar configuration for 1996). Performance Horsepower Estimated: Varies by engine option, e.g., 3.0L Vulcan V6 (approx. 145-150 hp), 3.8L Essex V6 (approx. 155-160 hp). Torque Estimated: Varies by engine option, e.g., 3.0L Vulcan V6 (approx. 165-170 lb-ft), 3.8L Essex V6 (approx. 200-205 lb-ft). Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Likely 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., AX4S or AX4N depending on engine/drivetrain). Optional Transmission Type: Manual transmission not typically offered on US market Windstars of this era, but manual gearbox availability should be confirmed by the manual itself. Features Transmission Fluid Spec: Requires specific Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), likely MERCON V or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Inches: Approx. 119.0 inches Length Inches: Approx. 190.0 inches Width Inches: Approx. 74.5 inches Height Inches: Approx. 68.5 inches Weights Curb Weight Lbs Estimated: Approx. 3,800 - 4,200 lbs (depending on configuration) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs Estimated: Approx. 5,400 - 5,800 lbs (depending on configuration) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Rating 1996: 4-star (Good) NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Rating 1996: 4-star (Good) Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Seat Belts: All seating positions equipped with lap and shoulder belts; front seat pretensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player and premium sound systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional cruise control system. Connectivity Multiplex Communication: Inclusion of multiplexed electrical systems for integrated control of various functions. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact Ford recommendations). Engine Air Filter Replacement:...
Likely 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., AX4S or AX4N depending on engine/drivetrain).
Optional
Transmission Type:
Manual transmission not typically offered on US market Windstars of this era, but manual gearbox availability should be confirmed by the manual itself.
Features
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Requires specific Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), likely MERCON V or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase Inches:
Approx. 119.0 inches
Length Inches:
Approx. 190.0 inches
Width Inches:
Approx. 74.5 inches
Height Inches:
Approx. 68.5 inches
Weights
Curb Weight Lbs Estimated:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,200 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs Estimated:
Approx. 5,400 - 5,800 lbs (depending on configuration)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Rating 1996:
4-star (Good)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Rating 1996:
4-star (Good)
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seat Belts:
All seating positions equipped with lap and shoulder belts; front seat pretensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player and premium sound systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Connectivity
Multiplex Communication:
Inclusion of multiplexed electrical systems for integrated control of various functions.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact Ford recommendations).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (refer to manual).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on usage (refer to manual for precise interval and fluid type).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
Likely SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20, API Service SG or SH category or higher (refer to manual for exact Ford specification).
Coolant Specification:
Likely a 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and deionized water (refer to manual for specific Ford coolant type).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 brake fluid (refer to manual for confirmation).
Known Issues
Common Issues 1996 Windstar:
Potential issues may include transmission solenoid issues, coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets (especially on 3.8L engines), power steering pump noise, and HVAC system component failures. Refer to manual for detailed troubleshooting of these and other common problems.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Ford Heritage:
Ford Motor Company, a major American automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles.
Model Evolution
Windstar Introduction:
The Ford Windstar was introduced for the 1995 model year, replacing the Ford Aerostar as Ford's primary minivan offering.
Windstar 1996 Updates:
The 1996 model year saw minor refinements and potential updates to features or powertrain based on early feedback, building on the initial design.
Production
Production Location:
Oakville Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.
Generation:
First generation (1995-1998).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best 1996:
Ford Windstar was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for minivans in 1996.