Engine Dying Problem

Skywalker 2000 · 04-24-2007, 01:28 PM

I bought a Ford Windstar 2000 six months ago. I maintained it very well. In fact, I had it serviced just two weeks after I bought it. I replaced the tires. It was working fine until recently. It started with the Emission system light on. So I sent it to the mechanic to get it fix. He told me that the air flow meter is dirty and needed to be replaced. Thinking that it would solve the problem since I needed to get the vehicle license renewed, I agreed to get it fix though it costs me an incredible $419.58 to do that. But just a couple days later, the light went on again. So I brought it back to the mechanic and he came up with all kinds of 'excuses' such as the vehicle computer system needed to be updated for $98.00 and O2 sensors need to be replaced for $150 each (there are 4 altogether). I decided to ignore it since I have already gotten the van's license renewed. Then, come the squealing noise accompanied by the engine dying at idle. I brought it to another mechanic and he told me that the serpentine belt tensioner was bad. I got it replaced for $140.88 but that didn't solve the problem. I brought it back and he told me that the problem was due to the water pump and the belt itself. So again I got them replaced and that cost me another $588.10. The noise is still there (irregular though) and the dying problem is really irritating. Once, it died 4 times on my way to school, a distance of only 4 miles. Every time, I let go of my foot from the gas paddle, there is a very high probability of the engine dying even when I was cornering at a junction. Now the mechanic is telling me that it could be the camshaft synchronizer and the leak in the vacuum. All these would cost $1047. I felt that the mechanics are not familiar with the problems and tried to fix it through trial and error. I couldn't afford the $$$$$ for them to base their judgment on trial and error. I have already spent more than $1200 for repairs and do not plan to spend any more just to replace unnecessary parts that are not part of the problem. PLEASE HELP.

mark v · 04-24-2007, 04:39 PM

Sounds like you didnt go to a Ford Garage. Going other places usually will cost you more in the long run.

You just learned a new lesson.

GallagherPreach · 04-24-2007, 08:33 PM

I agree with Mark V. Find a Ford dealer you can trust or a Ford qualified mechanic.

Also, You might check the MAF (Mass Air Flow) Sensor, that may be part of the problem.

Skywalker 2000 · 04-24-2007, 10:06 PM

Thanks for the response. Yes, I didn't bring my Windstar to a Ford Garage. This is the first time I own a Ford and am new to this area - Spokane. Does anybody know if Wendel Ford is an authorized dealer for Ford?

flashpipe · 11-03-2008, 09:47 AM

Skywalker,

Did you ever get this figured out? Our 2000 Windstar just started squealing and dying last week and I'd like to avoid costly mechanic bills...

Thanks!!

BroncoJoe19 · 11-03-2008, 11:31 AM

Check out this thread regarding your squealing
http://www.ford-forums.com/ford-wind...tine-belt.html

and perhaps you should start a new thread with specifics about how your engine is dying.