NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Tank Assembly
4726.9%
Switch
4324.6%
Buckle Assembly
2011.4%
Interior/Under Dash
169.1%
Automatic Transmission
148.0%
Gasoline
126.9%
Ignition
126.9%
Park/Neutral Start Interlock Switch
116.3%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jan 1995peak 23Oct 2006
NHTSA investigations into the 1989 Ford Aerostar
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EA96030Opened 20 Dec 1996Closed 13 Aug 1998VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES
CRACKED FUEL TANKS
CRACKED FUEL TANKS ARE LEAKING FUEL
PE96050Opened 6 Aug 1996Closed 20 Dec 1996VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES
PE94021Opened 4 Mar 1994Closed 19 Jul 1994SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILURE
PE91127Opened 16 Sep 1991Closed 8 Nov 1991POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
PARK PAWL BENDING
EA91015Opened 1 Feb 1991Closed 20 Sep 1991STRUCTURE
LIFTGATE FAILURE
PE91005Opened 18 Oct 1990Closed 1 Feb 1991STRUCTURE
LIFTGATE FAILURE
EA90042Opened 31 Aug 1990Closed 31 Dec 1991VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES
THROTTLE STICKING
Recalls on the 1989 Ford Aerostar
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
98V190000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE FOLLOWING STATES: ALABAMA, ARIZONA, ARKANSAS, CALIFORNIA (10 SOUTHERN COUNTIES OF LOS ANGELES, ORANGE, SAN BERNADINO, SAN DIEGO, RIVERSIDE, VENTURA, SANTA BARBARA, SAN LUIS OBISPO, IMPERIAL, AND KERN), FLORIDA, GEORGIA, HAWAII, LOUISIANA, MISSISSIPPI, NEVADA (CLARK COUNTY), OKLAHOMA, SOUTH CAROLINA, AND TEXAS, AND IN THE U.S. TERRITORIES COVERED BY THE FEDERAL STATUTES. THE UPPER PORTION OF THE FUEL TANK CAN DEVELOP SMALL CRACKS DUE TO EXTENDED EXPOSURE TO VERY HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES. FUEL VAPOR OR LEAKAGE COULD OCCUR AT THESE CRACKS.
Risk: IF AN IGNITION SOURCE IS PRESENT, A FIRE COULD RESULT.
98E010000
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC:ROTOR
EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: AFTERMARKET BRAKE ROTORS FOR USE ON CERTAIN FORD AND MAZDA TRUCKS. CRACKED CASTINGS CAUSED CRACKS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER DIAMETER OF THE ROTOR HAT OR AROUND THE STUD HOLE.
Risk: LOSS OF BRAKING CAN RESULT.
96V071000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
THE IGNITION SWITCH COULD EXPERIENCE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT.
Risk: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE OVERHEATING, SMOKE, AND POSSIBLY FIRE IN THE STEERING COLUMN AREA OF THE VEHICLE.
91V189000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
WHEN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER IS PLACED IN THE PARK POSITION, THE PARK PAWL DOES NOT ALWAYS ABUT OR ENGAGE THE PARK GEAR.
Risk: DRIVER MAY BELIEVE THE VEHICLE IS SAFELY ENGAGED IN PARKWHEN THE GEAR IS NOT TRULY ENGAGED. THIS CAN LEAD TO THE VEHICLE JUMPING OUT OFGEAR UNINTENTIONALLY, VEHICLE ROLLAWAY WHEN PARKED ON A SLOPED SURFACE, ANDINADVERTENT MOTION WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED. ALL OF THESE CONDITIONS CANRESULT IN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
91V164000
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
SEAT BELT ANCHORAGE BAR FOR REAR SOFA FAILED TO SUSTAIN LOADS REQUIRED BY FMVSS 210.
Risk: VEHICLES WOULD NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 210.
90V144000
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
THE SECOND ROW RIGHT HAND SEAT ASSEMBLY HAS A TILT FORWARD FUNCTION. A LATCH RETAINS THE SEAT IN THE NORMAL RIDE POSTION, AND THIS LATCH MAY RELEASE UNDER SEVERE FRONTAL IMPACT CONDITIONS, ALLOWING THE SEAT TO PIVOT FORWARD.
Risk: IN THE EVENT OF VEHICLE ACCIDENT, THE SEAT COULD PIVOTFORWARD, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE OCCUPANT.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 1995212834,368 units in Canada
Electrical
A SHORT CIRCUIT COULD DEVELOP IN THE IGNITION SWITCH THAT COULD LEAD TO OVERHEATING, SMOKE, AND POSSIBLY FIRE IN THE STEERING COLUMN OF THE VEHICLE. THIS CONDITION MAY OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN USE OR UNATTENDED. CORRECTION: IGNITION SWITCH WILL BE REPLACED WITH A REVISED DESIGN SWITCH.
Recall 199114973,771 units in Canada
Powertrain
THE PARK MECHANISM OF THE A4LD AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION MAY NOT ENGAGE WHEN THE SELECTOR LEVER IS PLACED IN THE "PARK" POSITION. IF PARKED ON AN INCLINE, THE VEHICLE MAY ROLL AS IF IN NEUTRAL IF THE PARKING BRAKE IS NOT SET. THIS COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT OR PERSONAL INJURY. CORRECTION: OWNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF CONDITION AND ADVISED TO SET THE PARKING BRAKE EACH TIME THEY PARK THEIR VEHICLE. OWNERS WILL ALSO BE ADVISED WHEN DEALERS RECEIVE PARTS AND REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS AFTER FURTHER INVESTIGATION BY FORD.
Recall 19901231,357 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
NOTE: VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH QUAD CAPTAIN'S CHAIRS. THE LATCH RETAINING THE SECOND ROW RIGHT HAND SEAT ASSEMBLY MAY RELEASE UNDER SEVERE FRONTAL IMPACT CONDITIONS. THIS WOULD ALLOW THE SEAT TO PIVOT FORWARD AND COULD RESULT IN OCCUPANT INJURY. CORRECTION: LATCH PAWL ASSEMBLY WILL BE REPLACED WITH ONE OF A REVISED DESIGN.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 155,000 milesVirginia Beach, VAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
MY FORD AEROSTAR CAUGHT FIRE LAST NIGHT FOR NO APPARENT REASON. MY DAUGHTER HAD RETURNED FROM SCHOOL AND PARKED IT IN THE DRIVEWAY. APPROXIMATELY 2 HOURS LATER, A NEIGHBOR RANG THE DOOR BELL AND FRANTICALLY SAID "YOUR VAN IS ON FIRE". WE CALLED 911 AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS THERE WITHIN 3 MINUTES TO PUT IT OUT.
NHTSA complaint #10169816 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,371 milesGarden Grove, CACrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
THE CONSUMER STATED THAT BACK IN 1998 SHE HAD A ACCIDENT WITH HER FORD AEROSTAR. SHE STATED THAT WHEN SHE PULLED INTO A PARKING SPACE AND HIT THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD AND HIT A BUILDING. SHE SAID SHE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THEY THOUGHT THE PROBLEM WAS A FAULTY IDLE AIR CONTROL. SHE SAID IT WAS REPAIRED AND SHE TOOK THE PART AND SENT IT TO THE MANUFACTURER. NOW THE PROBLEM HAS COME UP AGAIN AND SHE WAS ASKED TO BE A WITNESS, BECAUSE SOMEONE WAS KILLED, WHEN THEIR VEHICLE DID THE SAME THING. *JB IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE THROTTLE AIR BY PASS VALVE ASSEMBLY WAS NOT ONE OF FORD'S PARTS.
NHTSA complaint #10097085 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,371 milesGarden Grove, CACrash1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
THE CONSUMER STATED THAT BACK IN 1998 SHE HAD A ACCIDENT WITH HER FORD AEROSTAR. SHE STATED THAT WHEN SHE PULLED INTO A PARKING SPACE AND HIT THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD AND HIT A BUILDING. SHE SAID SHE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THEY THOUGHT THE PROBLEM WAS A FAULTY IDLE AIR CONTROL. SHE SAID IT WAS REPAIRED AND SHE TOOK THE PART AND SENT IT TO THE MANUFACTURER. NOW THE PROBLEM HAS COME UP AGAIN AND SHE WAS ASKED TO BE A WITNESS, BECAUSE SOMEONE WAS KILLED, WHEN THEIR VEHICLE DID THE SAME THING. *JB IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE THROTTLE AIR BY PASS VALVE ASSEMBLY WAS NOT ONE OF FORD'S PARTS.
NHTSA complaint #10097085 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hibbing, MNCrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
CONSUMER STATES ENGINE WAS ON AND IN THE PARK POSITION, CONSUMER PRESSED BRAKE TO PUT VEHICLE INTO REVERSE AND VEHICLE TOOK OFF IN REVERSE. CONSUMER STATES VEHICLE HIT TWO PARKED CARS AND WAS TOTALLED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.
NHTSA complaint #8013265 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
North Augusta, SCFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 MINUTES. IT HAD BEEN RUNNING PERFECTLY WELL. I NOTICED A MINOR TRIPLE CLICK NOISE WHEN I TURNED OFF THE IGNITION BUT DIDN'T THINK MUCH OF ANYTHING OF IT. AFTER SITTING OFF FOR 30-45 MINUTES, THE VEHICLE WAS IN FLAMES HAVING STARTED FROM SOMEWHERE IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THIS APPEARS TO BE CONSISTENT WITH REPORTS OF THE IGNITION SWITCH ISSUE. WE WERE NOT AWARE OF THE RECALL PRIOR TO LOOKING FOR IT AFTER OUR VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. FIREMEN INDICATE THAT THE FIRE STARTED IN THE FRONT PART OF THE VEHICLE, BUT THEY COULD NOT DETERMINE WHY DUE TO THE EXTENT OF THE DAMAGE. BEST WAY TO CONTACT ME IS VIA CELLPHONE AT 706-399-7825.
NHTSA complaint #761574 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterrey, AKFire1 injured
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
THE ALTERNATOR FAILED SHORT CIRCUIT. MASSIVE AMOUNTS OF CURRENT PASSED FROM THE BATTERY THROUGH THE ALTERNATOR, WHICH BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FAULT CAUSED THE ENGINE TO STALL DUE TO LACK OF IGNITION AND IT WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO STEER AND STOP THE VEHICLE AS A RESULT OF LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. SMOKE WAS POURING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. WHEN I MANAGED TO STOP AND OPEN THE HOOD, THE ALTERNATOR, WHICH WAS GLOWING RED INSIDE, BURST INTO FLAMES AND SET FIRE TO CABLES AND RUBBER HOSES AROUND IT. I RECEIVED BURNS TO MY HANDS TRYING TO PUT THE FIRE OUT. LUCKY FOR ME ANOTHER MOTORIST STOPPED AND HE HAD AN EXTINGUISHER. I HAVE NOW HAD TWO FIRES OF THIS TYPE, ONE ON EACH OF MY VEHICLES. YESTERDAY I WENT TO AN ALTERNATOR REMANUFACTURING COMPANY HERE IN MONTERREY, AND THE MANGER TOLD ME THAT HE HAS HAD FIVE ENGINE BAY FIRES IN AEROSTAR MINIVANS IN RECENT MONTHS. IN THE 'GOOD OLD DAYS' UNDERSTAND THERE WAS A FUSIBLE LINK BETWEEN THE ALTERNATOR CHARGING LINE AND THE BATTERY + TERMINAL. THERE SHOULD BE A FUSE IN THIS CIRCUIT BECAUSE IT IS CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO THE BATTERY!! NOT ONLY IS THE FIRE A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM, BUT THERE IS A SERIOUS RISK IN THE EVENT OF THIS FAULT, THAT THE OVERLOAD ON THE BATTERY WILL CAUSE IT TO BURST, SHOWERING EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE AROUND IT WITH HOT SULFURIC ACID. PLEASE NOTE ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN THE USA I AM CURRENTLY LIVING IN MONTERREY, MEXICO. MY PHONE IS 01152-8-349-7152 AND EMAIL IS OLDVINYL@HOTMAIL.COM.
NHTSA complaint #757273 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 155,000 milesVirginia Beach, VAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
MY FORD AEROSTAR CAUGHT FIRE LAST NIGHT FOR NO APPARENT REASON. MY DAUGHTER HAD RETURNED FROM SCHOOL AND PARKED IT IN THE DRIVEWAY. APPROXIMATELY 2 HOURS LATER, A NEIGHBOR RANG THE DOOR BELL AND FRANTICALLY SAID "YOUR VAN IS ON FIRE". WE CALLED 911 AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS THERE WITHIN 3 MINUTES TO PUT IT OUT.
NHTSA complaint #10169816 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 244,000 milesEtobicoke, 00
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
BRAKE LINE NEXT TO GAS TANK FAILED ON HIGHWAY, BRAKING ABILITY WAS GREATLY REDUCED.
NHTSA complaint #10164625 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 208,000 milesLumber Bridge, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
DT: THE CONTACT RECEIVED NHTSA RECALL 96V071000 CONCERNING THE IGNITION SWITCH. WHEN HE CONTACTED FORD, THEY COULD NOT FIND THE VIN. THIS STARTED A COUPLE OF MONTHS AGO. THE SWITCH STARTED TO COME APART, CAUSING THE VEHICLE NOT TO START. HE REPAIRED IT HIMSELF, AND IT IS CURRENTLY WORKING.*AK UPDATED 12/27/2005.
NHTSA complaint #10140845 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,371 milesGarden Grove, CACrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
THE CONSUMER STATED THAT BACK IN 1998 SHE HAD A ACCIDENT WITH HER FORD AEROSTAR. SHE STATED THAT WHEN SHE PULLED INTO A PARKING SPACE AND HIT THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD AND HIT A BUILDING. SHE SAID SHE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THEY THOUGHT THE PROBLEM WAS A FAULTY IDLE AIR CONTROL. SHE SAID IT WAS REPAIRED AND SHE TOOK THE PART AND SENT IT TO THE MANUFACTURER. NOW THE PROBLEM HAS COME UP AGAIN AND SHE WAS ASKED TO BE A WITNESS, BECAUSE SOMEONE WAS KILLED, WHEN THEIR VEHICLE DID THE SAME THING. *JB IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE THROTTLE AIR BY PASS VALVE ASSEMBLY WAS NOT ONE OF FORD'S PARTS.
NHTSA complaint #10097085 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,371 milesGarden Grove, CACrash1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
THE CONSUMER STATED THAT BACK IN 1998 SHE HAD A ACCIDENT WITH HER FORD AEROSTAR. SHE STATED THAT WHEN SHE PULLED INTO A PARKING SPACE AND HIT THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE SURGED FORWARD AND HIT A BUILDING. SHE SAID SHE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THEY THOUGHT THE PROBLEM WAS A FAULTY IDLE AIR CONTROL. SHE SAID IT WAS REPAIRED AND SHE TOOK THE PART AND SENT IT TO THE MANUFACTURER. NOW THE PROBLEM HAS COME UP AGAIN AND SHE WAS ASKED TO BE A WITNESS, BECAUSE SOMEONE WAS KILLED, WHEN THEIR VEHICLE DID THE SAME THING. *JB IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE THROTTLE AIR BY PASS VALVE ASSEMBLY WAS NOT ONE OF FORD'S PARTS.
NHTSA complaint #10097085 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 175,000 milesVancouver, WA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
NHTSA RECALL 98V190000 CONCERNING FUEL SYSTEM STORAGE TANK ASSEMBLY: CONSUMER INTERMITTENTLY SMELLED A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. T CONSUMER EXAMINED THE GAS TANK AND FOUND THAT FUEL WAS LEAKING FROM THE TOP OF THE TANK WHEN IT WAS FULL. MANUFACTURER CLAIMED THAT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT A PART OF THE RECALL.
NHTSA complaint #10063044 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,000 milesSlidell, LA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
THE MANUFACTURER WAS REFUSING TO HONOR RECALL 98V190000 FOR FUEL TANK CRACKS BECAUSE THE WARRANTY PERIOD ENDED.
NHTSA complaint #10046209 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pensacola, FL
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
WE OWE A 1989 FORD AEROSTAR MINI-VAN THE LONG EDITION. WE HAVE HAD IT A LITTLE OVER YEAR. WE HAVE BEEN HAVING A SERIOUS PROBLEM WITH THIS VECHICLE STALLING WHEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY TO AND FROM WORK. IT HAPPENS A LOT MORE OFTEN WHEN IT IS COLD AS OPPOSED TO WHEN IT IS WARMER.
NHTSA complaint #10008358 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Temecula, CA
TIRES
ON JULY 2, 2002 THE TREAD CAME OFF THE TIRE WHILE ON THE FREEWAY. THE TIRE HAD 49,000 MILES ON IT AND IT WAS WARRANTIED FOR 80,000. IT CAUSED $2,700 IN DAMAGE. BRIDGESTONE CLAIMS THE TIRE WAS OPERATED W/ LOW AIR PRESSURE, THIS IS NOT TRUE! THE FRONT TIRES WERE REPLACED BY PEP BOYS 6 MONTHS PRIOR DUE TO TREAD SEPARATION. I AM HAVING BRIDGESTONE SEND ME THE TIRE BACK. I DO HAVE PHOTOS OF THE TIRE AND VAN DAMAGE. TS
NHTSA complaint #767806 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tupelo, MS
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
CONSUMER STATES THAT THERE IS A CRACK IN THE FUEL TANK WHICH IS NOT ALLOWING THE CONSUMER TO FILL UP A FULL TANK OF GAS. CONTACTED DEALER AND THE DEALER STATED THAT THE WARRENTY PERIOD FOR THE RECALL HAS EXPIRED. MR
NHTSA complaint #8020576 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Eagelriver, AR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
CONSUMER NOTICED GAS LEAK IN TANK.
NHTSA complaint #8014448 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hibbing, MNCrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
CONSUMER STATES ENGINE WAS ON AND IN THE PARK POSITION, CONSUMER PRESSED BRAKE TO PUT VEHICLE INTO REVERSE AND VEHICLE TOOK OFF IN REVERSE. CONSUMER STATES VEHICLE HIT TWO PARKED CARS AND WAS TOTALLED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.
NHTSA complaint #8013265 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Royal OAK, MI
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TODAY MY WIFE WAS DRIVING OUR 1989 AEROSTAR AND SHE HAD THE ACCELERATOR GO DOWN UNDER HER FOOT BY IT'S SELF FOR NO PERCIEVED REASON. SO I STARTED TO LOOK ON INTERNET TO SEE IF ANYONE ELSE HAD THIS PROBLEM. DEALER CLAIMS NEVER HEARD OF IT! IT SEEMS LIKE I REMEMBERED WATCHING 20/20 OR THAT CANADIAN PROGRAM AND THEY REPORTING ABOUT FORD CRUISE CONTROLS HAVING POWER ON AT ALL TIME AND THAT MOISTER PRESENT AT WIRE HARNESS PLUG THAT CONNECTS THOUGH FIRE WALL COULD CAUSE CRUISE CONTROL TO SUDDEN ACCELLERATE.
NHTSA complaint #763240 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Royal OAK, MI
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
TODAY MY WIFE WAS DRIVING OUR 1989 AEROSTAR AND SHE HAD THE ACCELERATOR GO DOWN UNDER HER FOOT BY IT'S SELF FOR NO PERCIEVED REASON. SO I STARTED TO LOOK ON INTERNET TO SEE IF ANYONE ELSE HAD THIS PROBLEM. DEALER CLAIMS NEVER HEARD OF IT! IT SEEMS LIKE I REMEMBERED WATCHING 20/20 OR THAT CANADIAN PROGRAM AND THEY REPORTING ABOUT FORD CRUISE CONTROLS HAVING POWER ON AT ALL TIME AND THAT MOISTER PRESENT AT WIRE HARNESS PLUG THAT CONNECTS THOUGH FIRE WALL COULD CAUSE CRUISE CONTROL TO SUDDEN ACCELLERATE.
NHTSA complaint #763240 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
North Augusta, SCFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY 30 MINUTES. IT HAD BEEN RUNNING PERFECTLY WELL. I NOTICED A MINOR TRIPLE CLICK NOISE WHEN I TURNED OFF THE IGNITION BUT DIDN'T THINK MUCH OF ANYTHING OF IT. AFTER SITTING OFF FOR 30-45 MINUTES, THE VEHICLE WAS IN FLAMES HAVING STARTED FROM SOMEWHERE IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THIS APPEARS TO BE CONSISTENT WITH REPORTS OF THE IGNITION SWITCH ISSUE. WE WERE NOT AWARE OF THE RECALL PRIOR TO LOOKING FOR IT AFTER OUR VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. FIREMEN INDICATE THAT THE FIRE STARTED IN THE FRONT PART OF THE VEHICLE, BUT THEY COULD NOT DETERMINE WHY DUE TO THE EXTENT OF THE DAMAGE. BEST WAY TO CONTACT ME IS VIA CELLPHONE AT 706-399-7825.
NHTSA complaint #761574 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oakland, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
RECAL 96 V 071 000/ ELECTRICAL IGNITION SYSTEM: AFTER STARTING VEHICLE, ENGINE RACES AND VEHICLE OVERHEATS AND SMOKES. HOWEVER, THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL. *AK THE MOTOR CONTINUE TO RUN AFTER THE IGNITION WAS TURNED OFF AND THE KEY WAS REMOVED.
NHTSA complaint #8003069 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterrey Mexico, AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
WHEN I WENT TO FILL UP WITH GAS, THE ATTENDANT CAUGHT MY ATTENTION AS I WAS ABOUT TO DRIVE OFF. A RIVER OF GASOLINE WAS POURING FROM BENEATH MY VAN. I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC WHO FOUND THE TANK HAD SPLIT ALONG THE SEAM WHERE THE TWO HALVES OF THE PLASTIC INJECTION MOULDINGS ARE JOINED TOGETHER. SINCE THIS INCIDENT I HAVE HAD AN IDENTICAL FAILURE ON MY OTHER VEHICLE OF THE SAME YEAR AND MODEL. I THINK FROM THIS, THAT IT'S PRETTY CLEAR THERE IS LIKELY TO BE A DESIGN OR MANUFACTURING FAULT IN THE GAS TANKS OF AEROSTAR VANS. NOTE, THE TANK ON ONE VEHICLE IS THE 16 GALLON VERSION, THE OTHER ONE IS THE LARGER 20 GALLON TYPE. SAME TYPE OF SPLIT OCCURRED ON EACH. I REGARD THIS AS A SERIOUS, LIFE-THREATENING FAULT. PLEASE NOTE MY ADDRESS DETAILS ARE FOR MEXICO, MY PHONE NUMBER IS [XXX] AND MY EMAIL IS [XXX]. *AK PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #757275 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterrey, AKFire1 injured
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
THE ALTERNATOR FAILED SHORT CIRCUIT. MASSIVE AMOUNTS OF CURRENT PASSED FROM THE BATTERY THROUGH THE ALTERNATOR, WHICH BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FAULT CAUSED THE ENGINE TO STALL DUE TO LACK OF IGNITION AND IT WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO STEER AND STOP THE VEHICLE AS A RESULT OF LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. SMOKE WAS POURING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. WHEN I MANAGED TO STOP AND OPEN THE HOOD, THE ALTERNATOR, WHICH WAS GLOWING RED INSIDE, BURST INTO FLAMES AND SET FIRE TO CABLES AND RUBBER HOSES AROUND IT. I RECEIVED BURNS TO MY HANDS TRYING TO PUT THE FIRE OUT. LUCKY FOR ME ANOTHER MOTORIST STOPPED AND HE HAD AN EXTINGUISHER. I HAVE NOW HAD TWO FIRES OF THIS TYPE, ONE ON EACH OF MY VEHICLES. YESTERDAY I WENT TO AN ALTERNATOR REMANUFACTURING COMPANY HERE IN MONTERREY, AND THE MANGER TOLD ME THAT HE HAS HAD FIVE ENGINE BAY FIRES IN AEROSTAR MINIVANS IN RECENT MONTHS. IN THE 'GOOD OLD DAYS' UNDERSTAND THERE WAS A FUSIBLE LINK BETWEEN THE ALTERNATOR CHARGING LINE AND THE BATTERY + TERMINAL. THERE SHOULD BE A FUSE IN THIS CIRCUIT BECAUSE IT IS CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO THE BATTERY!! NOT ONLY IS THE FIRE A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM, BUT THERE IS A SERIOUS RISK IN THE EVENT OF THIS FAULT, THAT THE OVERLOAD ON THE BATTERY WILL CAUSE IT TO BURST, SHOWERING EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE AROUND IT WITH HOT SULFURIC ACID. PLEASE NOTE ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN THE USA I AM CURRENTLY LIVING IN MONTERREY, MEXICO. MY PHONE IS 01152-8-349-7152 AND EMAIL IS OLDVINYL@HOTMAIL.COM.
NHTSA complaint #757273 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterrey, AKFire1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
THE ALTERNATOR FAILED SHORT CIRCUIT. MASSIVE AMOUNTS OF CURRENT PASSED FROM THE BATTERY THROUGH THE ALTERNATOR, WHICH BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FAULT CAUSED THE ENGINE TO STALL DUE TO LACK OF IGNITION AND IT WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO STEER AND STOP THE VEHICLE AS A RESULT OF LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. SMOKE WAS POURING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. WHEN I MANAGED TO STOP AND OPEN THE HOOD, THE ALTERNATOR, WHICH WAS GLOWING RED INSIDE, BURST INTO FLAMES AND SET FIRE TO CABLES AND RUBBER HOSES AROUND IT. I RECEIVED BURNS TO MY HANDS TRYING TO PUT THE FIRE OUT. LUCKY FOR ME ANOTHER MOTORIST STOPPED AND HE HAD AN EXTINGUISHER. I HAVE NOW HAD TWO FIRES OF THIS TYPE, ONE ON EACH OF MY VEHICLES. YESTERDAY I WENT TO AN ALTERNATOR REMANUFACTURING COMPANY HERE IN MONTERREY, AND THE MANGER TOLD ME THAT HE HAS HAD FIVE ENGINE BAY FIRES IN AEROSTAR MINIVANS IN RECENT MONTHS. IN THE 'GOOD OLD DAYS' UNDERSTAND THERE WAS A FUSIBLE LINK BETWEEN THE ALTERNATOR CHARGING LINE AND THE BATTERY + TERMINAL. THERE SHOULD BE A FUSE IN THIS CIRCUIT BECAUSE IT IS CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO THE BATTERY!! NOT ONLY IS THE FIRE A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM, BUT THERE IS A SERIOUS RISK IN THE EVENT OF THIS FAULT, THAT THE OVERLOAD ON THE BATTERY WILL CAUSE IT TO BURST, SHOWERING EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE AROUND IT WITH HOT SULFURIC ACID. PLEASE NOTE ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN THE USA I AM CURRENTLY LIVING IN MONTERREY, MEXICO. MY PHONE IS 01152-8-349-7152 AND EMAIL IS OLDVINYL@HOTMAIL.COM.
NHTSA complaint #757273 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterrey, AKFire1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
THE ALTERNATOR FAILED SHORT CIRCUIT. MASSIVE AMOUNTS OF CURRENT PASSED FROM THE BATTERY THROUGH THE ALTERNATOR, WHICH BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FAULT CAUSED THE ENGINE TO STALL DUE TO LACK OF IGNITION AND IT WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO STEER AND STOP THE VEHICLE AS A RESULT OF LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. SMOKE WAS POURING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. WHEN I MANAGED TO STOP AND OPEN THE HOOD, THE ALTERNATOR, WHICH WAS GLOWING RED INSIDE, BURST INTO FLAMES AND SET FIRE TO CABLES AND RUBBER HOSES AROUND IT. I RECEIVED BURNS TO MY HANDS TRYING TO PUT THE FIRE OUT. LUCKY FOR ME ANOTHER MOTORIST STOPPED AND HE HAD AN EXTINGUISHER. I HAVE NOW HAD TWO FIRES OF THIS TYPE, ONE ON EACH OF MY VEHICLES. YESTERDAY I WENT TO AN ALTERNATOR REMANUFACTURING COMPANY HERE IN MONTERREY, AND THE MANGER TOLD ME THAT HE HAS HAD FIVE ENGINE BAY FIRES IN AEROSTAR MINIVANS IN RECENT MONTHS. IN THE 'GOOD OLD DAYS' UNDERSTAND THERE WAS A FUSIBLE LINK BETWEEN THE ALTERNATOR CHARGING LINE AND THE BATTERY + TERMINAL. THERE SHOULD BE A FUSE IN THIS CIRCUIT BECAUSE IT IS CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO THE BATTERY!! NOT ONLY IS THE FIRE A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM, BUT THERE IS A SERIOUS RISK IN THE EVENT OF THIS FAULT, THAT THE OVERLOAD ON THE BATTERY WILL CAUSE IT TO BURST, SHOWERING EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE AROUND IT WITH HOT SULFURIC ACID. PLEASE NOTE ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN THE USA I AM CURRENTLY LIVING IN MONTERREY, MEXICO. MY PHONE IS 01152-8-349-7152 AND EMAIL IS OLDVINYL@HOTMAIL.COM.
NHTSA complaint #757273 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Monterrey, AKFire1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST
THE ALTERNATOR FAILED SHORT CIRCUIT. MASSIVE AMOUNTS OF CURRENT PASSED FROM THE BATTERY THROUGH THE ALTERNATOR, WHICH BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FAULT CAUSED THE ENGINE TO STALL DUE TO LACK OF IGNITION AND IT WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO STEER AND STOP THE VEHICLE AS A RESULT OF LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. SMOKE WAS POURING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. WHEN I MANAGED TO STOP AND OPEN THE HOOD, THE ALTERNATOR, WHICH WAS GLOWING RED INSIDE, BURST INTO FLAMES AND SET FIRE TO CABLES AND RUBBER HOSES AROUND IT. I RECEIVED BURNS TO MY HANDS TRYING TO PUT THE FIRE OUT. LUCKY FOR ME ANOTHER MOTORIST STOPPED AND HE HAD AN EXTINGUISHER. I HAVE NOW HAD TWO FIRES OF THIS TYPE, ONE ON EACH OF MY VEHICLES. YESTERDAY I WENT TO AN ALTERNATOR REMANUFACTURING COMPANY HERE IN MONTERREY, AND THE MANGER TOLD ME THAT HE HAS HAD FIVE ENGINE BAY FIRES IN AEROSTAR MINIVANS IN RECENT MONTHS. IN THE 'GOOD OLD DAYS' UNDERSTAND THERE WAS A FUSIBLE LINK BETWEEN THE ALTERNATOR CHARGING LINE AND THE BATTERY + TERMINAL. THERE SHOULD BE A FUSE IN THIS CIRCUIT BECAUSE IT IS CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO THE BATTERY!! NOT ONLY IS THE FIRE A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM, BUT THERE IS A SERIOUS RISK IN THE EVENT OF THIS FAULT, THAT THE OVERLOAD ON THE BATTERY WILL CAUSE IT TO BURST, SHOWERING EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE AROUND IT WITH HOT SULFURIC ACID. PLEASE NOTE ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN THE USA I AM CURRENTLY LIVING IN MONTERREY, MEXICO. MY PHONE IS 01152-8-349-7152 AND EMAIL IS OLDVINYL@HOTMAIL.COM.
NHTSA complaint #757273 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Henderson, NC
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
MASTERCYLINDER LEAKING, RESULTING IN BRAKE FAILURE, THE DATE OF THIS AEROSTAR FALL RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RECALL.
NHTSA complaint #9004862 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Spring Valley, CAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
ALTERNATOR CONNECTORS CAUGHT ON FIRE. DEALER HAS YET TO BE CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS.
NHTSA complaint #897657 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kansas City, KSFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
THE FRONT OF THE HOOD WAS ON FIRE AND INSIDE OF THE DASHBOARD WAS ON FIRE TOO.
NHTSA complaint #9004420 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Spanaway, WA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
WHEN YOU TURNTHE KEY ON. THE IGNITION IS STUCK ON. THE ONLY WAY TO GET IT TO GO OFF, IS TO GET UNDER THE HOOD AND DIS INGAGE THE BATTERY TERMINAL. THIS CAR IS A 5 SPEED TRANSMISSION. HAVE CONTACTED OTHER OWNER AND THEY HAVE STATED THAT THEIRS HAVE TOO. HAVE INCOURAGED THEM TO CONTACT YOU TOO. AND THE DEALER.
NHTSA complaint #751145 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.