2001 Ford Windstar Logo
Posted on Jan 19, 2009
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I have a 2001 Ford Windstar. I can start the engine and it runs just fine. However, I have no radio, heat, wipers (all the accessories). They work when you turn your key to accessories, but they dont work when the vehicle is running. We have checked all the fuses, the main fuse, the links, the alternator, the front electical module. What else is there that might be causing this problem?? Hubby is about to torch the damn thing!

  • onebusymomma Jan 19, 2009

    I forgot to mention that we replaced the ignition switch as well.... sorry!

  • Anonymous Mar 27, 2014

    windows/wipers/radio
    only work with key turned back in accessory position

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1 Answer

Steve Allison

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  • Ford Master 5,569 Answers
  • Posted on Jan 19, 2009
Steve Allison
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Joined: Jan 19, 2008
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I think a new ignition switch would avoid the torching of your sick van.
It may not help but try this:
- Make sure you have the radio on in the accessory position, then switch to the 'run' position; you needn't start the car.
Jiggle with (deserved) anger on the key - well, without breaking it, and watch the radio display to see if it will flicker when you do this. If it does, then the switch section that should contact in both Accessories & Run has failed. 
Most radios don't instantly turn on but delay a second or two,  therefore the attention to the display. 

  • Steve Allison
    Steve Allison Jan 19, 2009

    In most vehicles, there are several identical relays used even if not all contacts of each are used in every circuit. Cheaper to use several the same instead of having a dozen different. 
    These will have identical part numbers and can be swapped from one position to another to isolate a problem.  


    If you haven't tried this yet, I suggest you should. 
    You could have two relays controlling voltage for the accessories, one of them supplying all but the ignition circuit and another of the same type supplying accessories via one set of contacts and the ignition with the other.
    If the set of contacts supplying accessories while the ignition is also on has failed, the car would run fine but not have accessories powered.

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