2003 Ford Windstar 2003 Ford Windstar Issues

2003 FORD WINDSTAR
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CHARSCREATIONS
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Brakes problem
2003 Ford Windstar Automatic 109000 miles

My ABS light and my Brake light are both coming on while I am driving. When I shut the car off, and then turn it back on, it will stay off sometimes for over an hour at a time.

I just purchased this car and the brakes seem in very good shape to my knowledge, but is it possibly a brake sensor? Brake fluid levels look okay.

Also I have read something about recalls, if I just purchased how do I know the recalls have been fixed? Can I take it to the dealership and have them make sure the recalls are up to date. I am clueless on this. The carfax had nothing about the recalls on it. I also own a 98 Windstar, but this has a few more bells and whistles I'm not used to.

Any help or advice is appreciated. Thanks!
Apr 24, 2010 at 5:57 PM
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MERLIN2021
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There is a recall, it involves the SCDS(speed control deactivation switch) It's screwed into the master cylinder under the bottom, and it can leak small amounts of brake fluid into the wiring harness and cause shorts, there is also a major problem with the EBCM(electronic brake control module) and this unit is about 133.00 at ford, but there are people on ebay who sell rebuilt ones for 15.00 or so. To know which problem you have, it needs to be scanned for the error codes. Ford can tell you if the recall has been done by your VIN. Make sure you agree with Ford in advance what repairs are to be made under the recall, they will try to get out cheap, but if the EBCM is defective, make sure it's included! Ford does not want to own up to Windstar, seems the 2000-200? seem to have ABS problems built right in, no extra charge! One suggestion is to unplug the cruise deactivator switch on the master cylinder and use a jumper wire in the connector. May or may not be helpful. Call NTHSA at 1-888-327-4236
add your voice to this concern, if enough calls are made, you may get a Ford recall out of it.
Apr 24, 2010 at 6:16 PM
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CHARSCREATIONS
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Thanks for the quick response. I'll take it in and get it scanned ASAP. I have a 98 Windstar that has been a good van for me, but after reading some more on this website I agree the 2000-2003 has some serious issues with the ABS, also read some transmission issues??? Hopefully that is not the case.

Also I will definitely call NTHSA.
Apr 24, 2010 at 6:55 PM
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MERLIN2021
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Dont laugh too hard, they might get you too! Good luck with it!
Apr 25, 2010 at 7:55 AM