Ford
Windstar
Toyota
Sienna
Ford Windstar vs Toyota Sienna: 2020 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Toyota Sienna 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
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.
Sienna
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability, practicality, and fuel efficiency, particularly for the hybrid models (2021+). The Sienna is consistently praised as a durable, low-maintenance family vehicle capable of reaching very high mileages (200,000-300,000+ miles) with proper care. The hybrid powertrain is highlighted as a major advantage, offering significant fuel savings (approximately 36 MPG) compared to competitors.
Best version to buy
For newer generations (2021+), the Platinum trim is frequently recommended for its comprehensive feature set, including ventilated/cooled front seats, a video rearview mirror, and advanced safety technology. The hybrid powertrain is considered non-negotiable for its fuel savings and reliability.
Known issues
- ⚠Transmission problems (2017 models): Jerkiness, shifting issues, high-speed freeway problems, and expired customer service programs for repairs. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Infotainment/system glitches (2025 models): Profile and key fob pairing failures, unresponsive screens. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠Engine issues (specific older models): Timing chain/crankshaft codes (P001500, P001700) on a brand-new 2025 model; oil/coolant leaks and timing chain failure on a 2015 model. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Toyota Sienna 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 Ford Windstar or the Toyota Sienna?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ford Windstar and the Toyota Sienna. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ford Windstar or the Toyota Sienna?
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 Ford Windstar or the Toyota Sienna?
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 Ford Windstar or the Toyota Sienna?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Ford Windstar than the Toyota Sienna. See the known issues comparison above.