1996 Ford Aerostar problems
Owners have filed 124 complaints about the 1996 Ford Aerostar with NHTSA. Wheels account for 18.5% of them — narrowly the most common, ahead of service brakes, hydraulic at 16.9%.
Complaints124
Crashes13
Fires4
Injuries8
Deaths0
What owners report breaking
Wheels 18.5% · 23
Service brakes, hydraulic 16.9% · 21
Power train 11.3% · 14
Electrical system 10.5% · 13
Steering 7.3% · 9
Air bags 5.6% · 7
Latches/locks/linkages 4.8% · 6
Tires 4.0% · 5
Severity
Of those complaints, 13 describe a crash, 4 describe a fire and 8 report an injury.
Reading the numbers
Across the 7 model years of the Ford Aerostar in this data, 1996 draws comparatively few complaints; 1993 is the outlier year.
Filings have fallen off, 4 in the last three years against 6 in the three before. That is normal as a generation leaves the road.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 124,000 miles.
In owners' own words
On 9/17/02 the right front alloy wheel cracked while on vacation. We were unable to travel in it. It was expensive and difficult to replace. On 2/1/03 (also out of town) the left back alloy wheel cracked. We are searching for a replaement. Our mechanic told us this should not happen and must be a manufacturing defect. There are several similair complaits please evaluate as it could cause a severe accident. Wheels · reported at 124,500 miles
Both front wheels have cracks in the Ford manufactured spook wheels. Ford contacted and had no explanation and stated it is my problem. One Ford mechanic contacted and 4 wheel shops contacted and stated it appears to be a design flaw. Ford representatives had no concern concerning safety issue. As of this date Ford will not accept any liablity. Wheels
Casting on alloy wheels failed. Of seven spokes on wheels three had broken. Wheels were falling off the axle. Contacted dealer, and Ford. Ford stated did not have a recall on alloy wheels. Dealer stated will not replace wheels unless under warranty. Wheels
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…