The 2003 Ford Windstar uses a four-speed automatic transaxle with front-wheel drive.
Transmission type and configuration
In 2003, the Windstar is equipped with Ford's four-speed automatic transaxle, part of the 4R family. This is an automatic-only system that drives the front wheels, and there was no manual or all-wheel-drive option for this model year.
What the designation 4R44E means
The "4R" denotes a four-speed automatic with overdrive, while the "E" indicates electronic control via a valve body and solenoids. This setup was widely used in Ford front-wheel-drive vehicles of the era, including the Windstar.
Key transmission characteristics
Below are the essential features of the Windstar's transmission configuration.
- Transmission type: four-speed automatic transaxle
- Transmission family: 4R44E (electronic control)
- Drive layout: front-wheel drive (FWD)
- Availability: no manual transmission option for the 2003 Windstar
These characteristics define how the Windstar's drivetrain delivers power and shifts through gears during normal operation.
Summary
For the 2003 Ford Windstar, the transmission is a four-speed automatic transaxle in a front-wheel-drive configuration, specifically the 4R44E family. It is automatic-only and not offered with four-wheel drive or a manual option in this model year.


