When was the last year for the Ford Windstar?
The last model year for the Ford Windstar was 2003. Ford then introduced the Freestar for the 2004 model year to replace the Windstar in its minivan lineup, ending the Windstar’s production after 2003.
Background and Lifecycle
The Windstar was Ford’s front‑wheel‑drive minivan introduced in the mid‑1990s to compete in the family‑mover segment. It existed in two generations, with a significant refresh in 1999, before being discontinued after the 2003 model year. In North America, Windstar production ended in 2003 at Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant, paving the way for the Freestar in 2004.
Timeline of the Windstar's Lifecycle
These dates highlight the Windstar’s entry, refresh, and eventual replacement.
- 1995: Ford Windstar debuts as a model‑year minivan to compete in the segment.
- 1999: Second generation introduction / major refresh with updated styling and features.
- 2003: Last model year of the Windstar in North America.
- 2004: Ford Freestar replaces the Windstar in the lineup.
The above milestones summarize the Windstar’s lifecycle from launch through its replacement by the Freestar.
Generational Overview
The Windstar progressed through two generations: the original 1995–1998 model years and the 1999–2003 refresh. The 1999 update marked the transition to a refreshed design and packaging, ending with the Windstar’s production in 2003 and the subsequent 2004 introduction of the Freestar.
Summary
The Ford Windstar’s final year was 2003. Ford replaced it with the Freestar for the 2004 model year, ending the Windstar’s production run. Today, the Windstar stands as a reference point in the evolution of early‑2000s minivans.
