What is the recall on the Ford Windstar rear axle?
The straightforward answer: there is no widely publicized, universal recall specifically titled “Windstar rear axle” that affects all Windstars. Recall notices tied to the rear axle are VIN-specific and model-year dependent, so you must check your vehicle’s VIN to confirm any active or past campaigns. This report reflects recall data from official sources like NHTSA and Ford up to the present and emphasizes how to verify your car’s status.
Overview: the recall landscape for the Windstar rear axle
Understanding recalls for the Ford Windstar requires differentiating between a general model-year spotlight and VIN-specific campaigns. While the Windstar has had recalls across various systems over the years, there is no single, nationwide recall named solely after the rear axle that applies to every Windstar. If a rear-axle-related issue exists, it will appear as a specific recall campaign tied to individual VINs.
Why VIN-by-VIN matters
Recall eligibility is determined by the vehicle identification number (VIN). Even within the same model year, some Windstars will be covered by a recall while others will not, depending on manufacturing details and assembly variations.
How to check recalls for your Windstar
Use these steps to verify whether any recalls apply to your specific Windstar, and to learn about the status of any past campaigns.
- Identify your VIN. The 17-character VIN can be found on the driver’s-side dashboard near the windshield or on the driver’s door jamb, and it appears on registration and insurance documents.
- Search the official recall database. Use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall look-up tool and input your VIN to see active or past campaigns. You can also search by model year if you don’t have the VIN handy.
- Check Ford’s owner portal. Ford’s official recall center provides VIN-specific recall information and can alert you to campaigns tied to your Windstar.
- Consult your local Ford dealer. Give the dealer your VIN; they can pull the latest recall status and advise on any required service.
- Review recall notification letters. If your Windstar is affected, Ford or NHTSA is likely to have sent a recall notice by mail to the address on file.
Using these steps will help you determine whether a rear-axle issue—if any—applies to your Windstar and what actions are required. Remember that recall data can change as new campaigns are issued or existing ones are updated.
What to do if you find a relevant recall
If a recall campaign applies to your Windstar, Ford will perform the necessary repair at no cost to you. Until you confirm recall status, avoid driving the vehicle if you notice unusual rear-axle behavior, abnormal noises, changes in handling, or other symptoms that could indicate a driveline issue.
- Document the recall status by saving the VIN lookup results and any correspondence from Ford or NHTSA.
- Schedule service promptly at an authorized Ford service center.
- Bring any required information (VIN, recall notice) to the appointment to expedite the repair process.
Proactive verification and timely service help ensure any rear-axle-related concerns are addressed quickly and at no expense to the owner.
Summary
In summary, there is no blanket recall titled “rear axle” for all Ford Windstars. Any rear-axle-related recalls would be VIN-specific, so owners should verify their exact situation using the VIN through NHTSA and Ford’s official channels. If a campaign does exist for your Windstar, Ford will cover the repair cost and provide instructions for safe resumption of service.
Bottom line: check your VIN now, stay informed through official recall sources, and contact your dealer if you have concerns about rear-axle reliability in your Windstar.
What were common Ford Windstar problems?
Top Ford Windstar Problems
- Vacuum Leaks From Intake Area Causing Lean Condition.
- Knocking Noise Due to Broken Intake Runner.
- Ford Windstar ABS light and electrical issues with flashing interior lights and door lock malfunctio...
- Engine Oil Pan Gasket May Leak.
- Warped Front Brake Rotors Can Cause Steering Wheel Shimmy.
What is the Ford recall 103 000 F 150s due to a faulty rear axle hub bolt?
The problem may arise in F-150 pickups equipped with the heavy-duty rear axle and max towing package. Ford issued a recall covering 103,174 F-150 pickups built between January 2023 and May 2025. The recall stems from fatigued rear axle-hub bolts that may break, which can prevent torque from reaching the rear wheels.
What is the Ford rear axle recall?
Ford has issued recalls for several F-150 models due to a potential rear axle bolt break, which can cause a loss of power, unintended movement while in park, and risk of rollaway. The main recalls are for certain 2021-2023 F-150s with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package (23S65) and some 2023-2025 F-150s with the same package and axle design. Ford also has a separate recall for certain 2023-2024 Transit vehicles due to a rear axle bearing seizure issue (24S05).
F-150 rear axle bolt recall (23S65 and related)
- What it is: A safety recall for certain Ford F-150 trucks with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package that may have a rear axle hub bolt that can fatigue and break.
- Affected vehicles:
- 2021-2023 F-150s: with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package and a 9.75-inch heavy-duty axle with a ¾-float axle design.
- 2023-2025 F-150s: with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package and a 9.75-inch heavy-duty axle with a ¾-float axle design.
- Risks:
- Loss of vehicle power.
- Loss of the ability to hold the vehicle in park.
- Unintended movement of the vehicle while parked.
- Increased risk of injury or crash.
- What to do: Ford states that dealers will replace the rear axle shaft assemblies for free. Check your VIN on the Ford recall page to see if your vehicle is affected.
Transit rear axle bearing recall (24S05)
- What it is: A recall for certain 2023-2024 Ford Transit vehicles due to an issue where the rear axle tail bearing may not have enough lubricant, leading to overheating and seizure.
- Affected vehicles: Certain 2023 and 2024 Transit vehicles built within specific date ranges.
- Risks:
- Grinding noises.
- Vibrations.
- Rear axle fluid leaks.
- The bearing failure can lead to a loss of drive power.
- What to do: Ford says dealers will inspect the rear axle and replace the axle bearings or assembly if needed. Check your VIN on the Ford recall page to see if your vehicle is affected.
This video explains the Ford F-150 axle recall: 44sTODAYYouTube · Aug 31, 2023
Other recall information
- Other recalls: Some older Ford models may be subject to different recalls, such as the 2020-2021 Ford F-350 Super Duty trucks with a Dana 275 axle, which could have a rear axle shaft issue (22S27).
What is the recall on the 2001 Ford Windstar?
2001 Ford Windstar Recall
On certain minivans equipped with an adjustable pedal option, the driver floor mat could interfere with the accelerator pedal, potentially resulting in a stuck throttle. Action Need To Fix It: Dealers will replace both front driver and passenger side floor mats in the vehicle.
