1998 Ford Aerostar problems

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The Ford Aerostar is a range of vans that was manufactured by Ford from the 1986 to the 1997 model years. The first minivan produced by Ford, the model line was marketed against the Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari and the first two generations of the Chrysler minivans. Introduced shortly before the Ford Taurus, the Aerostar derived its name from its slope-nosed "one-box" exterior (although over six feet tall, the body of the Aerostar retained a drag coefficient of Cd=0.37, besting the Lincoln Mark VII).

The first minivan powered exclusively by V6 engines, the Aerostar was also one of the first vehicles to introduce all-wheel drive to the segment in North America. The model line was sold in multiple configurations, including passenger and cargo vans, along with an extended-length body. Sold primarily in the United States and Canada, a limited number of vehicles were exported outside of North America.

The Aerostar was replaced for the 1995 model year by the front-wheel drive Ford Windstar; Ford sold both model lines concurrently through the 1997 model year. The role of the Aerostar cargo van was left unfilled, with the Ford Transit Connect serving as the closest successor (in terms of size and capability).

For its entire production, the model line was assembled by the St. Louis Assembly Plant in Hazelwood, Missouri. In total, 2,029,577 vehicles were produced across a single generation.

1998 Ford Aerostar

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Common 1998 Ford Aerostar problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Ford Aerostar 1998, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

  1. Transmission Failure: In the 1996 Aerostar, there have been complaints of transmission failure. This problem can lead to issues with shifting gears, loss of power, and ultimately affect the vehicle's performance and drivability.
  2. Transmission Won't Engage: Owners of the 1987 Aerostar have reported complaints about the transmission not engaging. This issue can prevent the vehicle from moving forward or backward, posing a significant safety concern.
  3. Stuck Drum: Complaints of a stuck drum have been reported in the 1996 Aerostar. A stuck drum can affect the braking system, leading to reduced braking efficiency and potentially compromising the safety of the vehicle.
  4. Engine Stalls: Owners of the 1993 Aerostar have experienced complaints of the engine stalling. Engine stalling can occur unexpectedly, causing the vehicle to lose power and potentially leading to dangerous situations, especially while driving.
  5. Starting Issues: Complaints of the engine not starting have been reported for the 1991 Aerostar. Starting issues can be frustrating and inconvenient, especially if they occur unexpectedly, leaving the driver stranded.
  6. Engine Problems: In general, there have been complaints about engine-related issues, which can encompass a wide range of problems affecting the performance, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability of the vehicle.
  7. Fuel System Concerns: Owners have reported complaints related to the fuel system. Issues with the fuel system can lead to poor fuel economy, engine performance issues, and potentially pose a fire hazard if not addressed promptly.
  8. Braking Problems: Complaints regarding the brakes have been noted. Brake issues can compromise the vehicle's ability to stop safely, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
  9. Electrical System Malfunctions: Owners have experienced complaints about electrical system malfunctions. Electrical problems can manifest in various ways, affecting crucial components like lights, power windows, and the overall functionality of the vehicle.
  10. Transmission Troubles: There have been complaints related to the transmission system. Transmission problems can result in gear shifting issues, strange noises, and ultimately impact the vehicle's drivability and performance.

These common problems reported by Ford Aerostar 1998 owners highlight various issues that can affect the safety, reliability, and overall driving experience of the vehicle. Addressing these concerns promptly through proper maintenance and repairs is crucial to ensure the longevity and performance of the Ford Aerostar.

1998 Ford Aerostar engine

When did Ford stop making the Aerostar?

August 22, 1997

On March 17, 1997, Ford announced the discontinuation of the Ford Aerostar, alongside the Ford Aspire, Ford Probe, and Ford Thunderbird/Mercury Cougar. The final vehicle rolled off the St. Louis assembly line on August 22, 1997; a total of 2,029,577 were produced over 12 years.

What is the mpg on a 1996 Ford Aerostar XLT?

Based on data from 4 vehicles, 257 fuel-ups and 57,711 miles of driving, the 1996 Ford Aerostar gets a combined Avg MPG of 12.22 with a 0.29 MPG margin of error.

What replaced the Ford Aerostar?

According to Ford, the 1994 model year will be the Aerostar's swan song. In April Ford dealers will receive the Aerostar's replacement, a larger, front-wheel-drive minivan called the Windstar.

How many Aerostars were made?

Piper Aerostar

Aerostar / Sequoia
First flight1967
StatusActive service
Produced1967–1984
Number built1,010

What happened to the Ford Aerostar?

The Aerostar was discontinued after 1997 and replaced by the Windstar, which was sold alongside since 1995. although Aerostar's role went unfilled until the 2010 introduction of the Ford Transit Connect van.

When was the last Ford Aerostar made?

August 22, 1997

Ford Aerostar

Ford Aerostar (VN1)
ManufacturerFord
ProductionJune 15, 1985 – August 22, 1997
Model years1986–1997
AssemblyHazelwood, Missouri (St. Louis Assembly)

Is a Ford Aerostar a minivan?

On this iPad is a random car we're gonna have some thoughts on it you're watching chill opinions Ford Aerostar in at least our specific image here a kind of Bandit Trans Am colorway. That very deeply

What is the mpg on a 1996 Ford Aerostar XLT?

Based on data from 4 vehicles, 257 fuel-ups and 57,711 miles of driving, the 1996 Ford Aerostar gets a combined Avg MPG of 12.22 with a 0.29 MPG margin of error.

1998 Ford Aerostar car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Aerostar problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Ford Aerostar vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1998 Ford Aerostar complaints

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Ford Aerostar.

2002-04-23

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-23
  • VIN: 1FMCA11U1VD
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM IS EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEM AS MENTIONED IN RECALL 98-V-190-000; BUT RECALL DOESN'T APPLY TO THIS VEHICLE DUE TO VIN. *AK
2000-10-27

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: A RECENT ACCIDENT IN LAS VEGAS CAUSED A DRIVERS SIDE AIR BAG TO DEPLOY WHICH EITHER STARTLED THE DRIVER OR RENDERED HIM DAAZED. HIS REACTION WAS TO PLANT HIS FEET FIRMLY, ONE OF WHICH WAS ON THE ACCELLERATOR. THE VAN (MAKE/MODEL UNK) ACCELERATED, GRAZING A VEHICLE IN THE OPPOSING LANE OF TRAFFIC, CAREENED OFF THAT VEHICLE, STRUCK A PICK UP TRUCK IN THE REAR, CAREENED OFF THAT PROCEEDED ACROSS THE INTERSECTION AND STRUCK AN IRON FENCE AND ALMOST MADE IT ONTO THE SIDEWALK AT THE LAS VEGAS CITY HALL. THE INCIDENT WHICH CAUSED THE AIRBAG TO DEPLOY WAS A GLANCING BLOW TO THE VAN WHICH WOULD HAVE CAUSED ONLY VERY MINOR DAMAGE. IT OCCURRED TO ME THAT IF THE IGNITION OR FUEL SUPPLY WAS DISSABLED WHEN THE DRIVERS AIR BAG DEPLOYED, TWO VEHICLES WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN TOTALLED AND THERE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ANY INJURIES. ONE OF THE INJURED WAS A CITY FIRE INSPECTOR THAT I SUPERVISE AND IS A FRIEND.*AK
1998-08-21

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-07-28
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1FMCA11U4JZ
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: DRIVING TRUCK AND STOPPED AT RED LIGHT LOST POWER. HEARD A POPPING SOUND AND BEGAN SMELLING SOMETHING BURNING. DROVE VEHICLE HOME AND PULLED INTO THE DRIVEWAY, AND SAW BLACK SMOKE COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE ALTERNATOR HAD BURNED THE WIRING HARNESS. *AK
1998-07-09

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-07-08
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1FMDA31U0KZ
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHEN STRAIGHTENING THE VEHICLE UP IN A PARKING SPACE THE VEHICLE WAS PUT IN REVERSE AND IT TOOK OFF, THE VEHICLE HIT A HOUSE. THE DEALER CANNOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1998 Ford Aerostar problems:

Ford Aerostar — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Ford Aerostar — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/113/ford/aerostar/ford-aerostar

Jan 19, 1998 ... Now we want to get another mini-van, but are very discouraged with the reliability of them. I don't know what we will end up with, but we are ...

Ford Aerostar Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
Ford Aerostar Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/ford/aerostar

Top Ford Aerostar Problems · Engine Leaks Around Rear Crankshaft Seal and Oil Pan Gasket are Common · Crossed Oxygen Sensor Wires Can Cause Poor Idle Quality/Fuel ...

Common Ford Windstar Transmission Problems: Q&A for 2000-2003 ...
Common Ford Windstar Transmission Problems: Q&A for 2000-2003 ...
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/3rk9v-friends-2000-windstar-seems-blowing-transmission-fluid.html

Jul 19, 2010 ... My friends 2000 Windstar seems to be BLOWING transmission fluid and only when it is run at highway speeds fro over an - Answered by a ...

What's Wrong with the Ford Windstar?
What's Wrong with the Ford Windstar?
https://www.fordproblems.com/models/windstar/

Ford Windstar Reliability Problems ... Windstar owners have made 1,995 complaints over 9 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 38th in overall ...

Q&A: 1998 Ford Windstar Transmission Problems - Expert Advice
Q&A: 1998 Ford Windstar Transmission Problems - Expert Advice
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/0fvbl-windstar-1998-having-transmission-problems.html

Nov 5, 2006 ... There are several things that can cause a transmission not to shift from 2nd to 3rd gear. First, you can have servo hold down band that is ...

Other years of Ford Aerostar

ford aerostar 1999 photo
Aerostar 1999
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ford aerostar 2000 photo
Aerostar 2000
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ford aerostar 1986 photo
Aerostar 1986
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ford aerostar 1987 photo
Aerostar 1987
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ford aerostar 1988 photo
Aerostar 1988
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ford aerostar 1989 photo
Aerostar 1989
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