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Ford Aerostar Problems

The Ford Aerostar was a minivan produced from 1986 to 2000. It was notable for being one of the few minivans to offer rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive, making it capable in various driving conditions. The model accumulated 6,218 complaints over its production run, with electrical systems, powertrain, and brakes being the most common areas of concern. While discontinued over two decades ago, some examples remain in use today.

6,218
Total Complaints
0
Total Recalls
15
Model Years
38
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

1993
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1986 1997 1998

Common Problem Categories

Electrical System 1,370
Power Train 866
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 658
Engine And Engine Cooling 464
Fuel System, Gasoline 410

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2000 22 0 8 0 Good
1999 26 0 12 0 Good
1998 8 0 4 2 Good
1997 166 0 12 16 Good
1996 248 0 26 8 Average
1995 408 0 44 40 Average
1994 768 0 56 66 Below Average
1993 1,082 0 90 98 Avoid
1992 878 0 76 84 Below Average
1991 564 0 56 156 Average
1990 508 0 64 130 Average
1989 656 0 52 184 Below Average
1988 460 0 16 90 Average
1987 280 0 14 106 Average
1986 144 0 6 52 Good

Ford Aerostar Years to Avoid

1992, 1993, 1994

Best Ford Aerostar Years

1998, 1999, 2000

What Owners Are Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common problems with the Ford Aerostar?

The most frequently reported issues involve electrical system failures, transmission problems, and brake concerns. The electrical system complexity and transmission reliability are the primary areas of concern.

Which Ford Aerostar years should I avoid?

Based on complaint data, the 1992, 1993, and 1994 model years had the highest number of reported issues. The later years from 1998-2000 show significantly fewer complaints.

Is the Ford Aerostar reliable?

Reliability varied by model year, with earlier 1990s models showing more problems. The rear-wheel drive platform was durable, but electrical and transmission issues affected overall reliability.

Why was the Ford Aerostar unique among minivans?

The Aerostar was one of few minivans to offer rear-wheel drive and an available all-wheel drive system, giving it better capability in snow and light off-road conditions compared to front-wheel drive competitors.

Should I buy a used Ford Aerostar?

Given the vehicle age, finding a well-maintained example is challenging. If considering one, the later model years are preferable. Thoroughly inspect the electrical system and transmission before purchase.