We just bought a used 2001 Ford Windstar from a used car dealer and it has been a complete nightmare! Our main problem as of now is when we get past what seems to be 2nd gear, it seems as if the van doesn't want to accelerate any further unless you press the peddle down quite a bit. The problem is really evident when going up a hill (whether it be large or small) the van will act like it has lost all power to go and will emit a sputtering sound like crazy. I can eventually make it up the hill but only going about 25 MPH. If I keep the gas pedal held down then the van will eventually kick in and take off but will still sputter along the way. I've replaced the air filter, oil and oil filter and considering replacing the fuel filter. I did all the previous with it being a used van and we did not know when the last time it had been completed. All these changes have not helped and I've asked a few friends and they seem to believe that it may be the catalytic converter(s) being clogged causing the problem. Any advice would be greatful as this has become a monster of a headache really fast.
Jun 16, 2010 at 10:43 PM