NHTSA orders recalls on used Fords

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a recall on used Ford Windstar minivans because of a problem with the rear axle.

The New York Times reports that Ford will recall 462,750 vehicles from 1999-2003. The Windstar’s rear axle, which is U-shaped, acts as a repository for salt that can be kicked up off the road. The salt can then corrode the axle to the point that it gives way.

The NHTSA revealed that it had received 234 complaints about the problem that led to 2 accidents but no injuries. More than half of the reports said the axle had split completely.

Ford will fix the vehicles free of charge and issue refunds to anyone who has paid for them.

The Ford Windstar is a popular used minivan, but buyers have lots of other options when it comes to buying a used car. Those interested in a minivan may want to look at a used Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town and Country or a Windstar that was made outside of the years mentioned. They should also know that drivers in states that don’t salt their roads as much have not reported as many issues.