Vehicle recall 12V195000 · May 3, 2012

1998-2003 Ford Windstar

Due to increased stresses caused by high cycles of torsional loading, specific to this market, the rear axle can crack.

Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.

Summary: Ford is recalling certain model year 1998-2003 windstar vehicles manufactured from September 1, 1997, through July 3, 2003, registered in puerto rico. Due to increased stresses caused by high cycles of torsional loading, specific to this market, the rear axle can crack.
Consequence: A fractured axle may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and install a reinforcement bracket on the rear axle or replace the axles, as necessary. This service will be provided free of charge. The recall began on June 1, 2012. Owners may contact the Ford motor company customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.
Notes: Ford's safety recall campaign number is 12S30.CUSTOMERS may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign: 12V195000
Reported to NHTSA: May 3, 2012
Filed by: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Manufacturer campaign: 12S30
Owner notification: June 1, 2012
Vehicles potentially affected: 9,192
Initiated by: the manufacturer
Components: Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-powered axle assembly

Recall 12V195000 on nhtsa.gov, with the manufacturer’s documents

Vehicles covered

As listed by NHTSA. A recall usually covers only some vehicles of each model and year, often a production date range.

Ford Windstar (1998-2003): 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999, 1998

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