1996 Ford Aerostar Electrical system Problems

“I had smoke and acrid smell coming from under my dash (while driving), where the steering column fits to it. I have contacted a major Ford dealer (brandon Ford), and they are refusing to help me. I called Ford customer service and he said my VIN is not listed for a recall, but yet had no answer for me when I asked why is my vehicle not on the recall list, when it is in the group of vehicles that were recalled and that are catching on fire while driving down the road. Over 887,000 were recalled for fire related problems, but they refuse to even look at mine. So, can I keep driving it? …”

“The consumer received a recall letter concerning ignition switch failure on 03/99. On 10/21/03 consumer stopped, parked vehicle, took key out of the ignition, and ignition cylinder came out.”

“3 months ago, I brought our van to the local dealer because the check engine light was on. They said the problem was a faulty spark-plug wire, which they replaced and reset the computer, for $130.00. A month later, the van started having engine problems, so I had another garage diagnose the problem, and they said there was a head gasket problem, and possibly a cracked head. I took the van to a top mechanic, who removed the heads and had them inspected. Results were that they were both cracked. We never ran the van hot, and kept the van in good running service. …”

“The contact stated while the vehicle was being driven 30 MPH, all power failed and the engine stalled. The stalling has also occurred at higher speeds and while the vehicle was immobile. A fuse connected to the battery cables blew. When the fuse was replaced, the engine would restart. The vehicle was taken to the service dealer. The contact was informed the vehicle was not included in recall # 99v029000, for the electrical ignition switch due the VIN even thought vehicle had the same problems. The manufacturer was not notified.”

“The vehicle was parked in front of the residence and it caught on fire. Driver called the fire department to extinguish the fire. No injuries. Vehicle was towed and totaled by the insurance company.”