Ford is recalling 1998-2003 Windstar minivans in snowbelt states because the rear axles may corrode.
Ford is recalling 575,000 minivans from model years 1998-2003 to fix rear axle shafts that can weaken because of corrosion, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The voluntary recall affects 463,000 Windstar minivans in the U.S. with the balance in Canada. The vehicles were built between Sept. 1, 1997, and Feb. 28, 2003.
Corrosion can cause cracks in the axle, which can break, affecting vehicle handling.
The recall is for vehicles currently registered or originally sold in Connecticut, Delaware Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
The recall is expected to begin September 27. As parts become available, dealers will inspect and, if necessary, install rear axle reinforcement brackets free of charge.
Ford’s recall number is 10S13. Owners may contact Ford at (866) 436-7332. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236 or go to http://safercar.gov.