Dodge
Caravan
Ford
Windstar
Dodge Caravan vs Ford Windstar: 2011 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Dodge Caravan comes out ahead of the Ford Windstar on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Caravan
Overall
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with a strong consensus on poor long-term reliability and specific, recurrent mechanical failures. The vehicle is acknowledged for its extreme practicality, low initial purchase price, and versatility (notably the Stow-n-Go seating). Some long-term owners report achieving very high mileage (250,000+ miles / 400,000+ km) with diligent maintenance, citing it as a cost-effective "throwaway" vehicle.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to specify a best model year or trim. Feedback is generalized across multiple generations (primarily 2000s and early 2010s).
Known issues
- ⚠Transmission failures: described as "janky," prone to "clunking," and a "known" problem. Cited as a primary reason for the vehicle's poor reputation. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Electrical system/TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) failures: fuse box issues causing a wide array of bizarre electrical problems (e.g., random horn activation, inoperable windows and gauges, wipers staying on).
- ⚠Engine issues: includes oil cooler/oil filter housing leaks (specifically on the 3.6L Pentastar V6), overheating problems potentially related to water pumps, and head gasket failures.
Windstar
Overall
Owner sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, dominated by widespread and severe reliability issues. The vehicle is frequently described as a "rolling deathtrap" and a source of significant frustration. While a small number of owners report surprisingly reliable service over high mileage (e.g., 202,000 miles, 325,000 km), these are exceptions against a backdrop of pervasive mechanical failures.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available. No specific model year or trim level is recommended as superior.
Known issues
- ⚠Automatic transmission failure: Very frequent reports of complete failure, slipping, harsh shifting, and design flaws.
- ⚠Severe structural rust/corrosion: Recalls mentioned for subframe corrosion that could lead to loss of steering control. Described as a primary reason for the vehicle's disappearance from roads, with bodies "falling apart" prematurely.
- ⚠Engine problems: Includes oil consumption/blow-by, head gasket failure indicated by white exhaust smoke, rough idle, stalling, and complete engine block replacement. The 3.8L V6 is specifically mentioned. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Dodge Caravan is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Ford Windstar, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Ford Windstar is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Dodge Caravan or the Ford Windstar?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Dodge Caravan and the Ford Windstar. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Dodge Caravan or the Ford Windstar?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Dodge Caravan or the Ford Windstar?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Dodge Caravan or the Ford Windstar?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Dodge Caravan than the Ford Windstar. See the known issues comparison above.