1991 Ford Aerostar
This year had 30% to 100% more complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1985 | 0 |
| 1986 | 53 |
| 1987 | 114 |
| 1988 | 177 |
| 1989 | 260 |
| 1990 | 195 |
| 1991 | 223 |
| 1992 | 317 |
| 1993 | 374 |
| 1994 | 257 |
| 1995 | 157 |
| 1996 | 104 |
| 1997 | 63 |
| 1998 | 4 |
| 1999 | 7 |
| 2000 | 6 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
13% of complaints: electrical system — 29 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
I OWNED A 1991 FORD AEROSTAR WHICH BURST INTO FLAMES AND WAS DESTROYED. I HAVE BEEN BOUNCED AROUND TRYING TO GET SATISFACTIONS BUT SINCE THERE WAS AN ONGOING CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY COMPENSATION.
NHTSA ODI report, 20050516
9% of complaints: power train — 21 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIREShow complaint excerpts
WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH ANOTHER MOTORIST YELLED AT THE CONSUMER THAT THE VAN WAS ON FIRE. THE FIRE APPEARED TO BE COMING FORM THE MIDDLE TO THE REAR. CONSUMER PULLED OVER, AND NOTICED TRANSMISSION FLUID ON THE UNDERSIDE OF THE VAN.
NHTSA ODI report, 20040517
8% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 18 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURY7% of complaints: power train — 16 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIRE INJURY5% of complaints: electrical system — 12 distinct reports on file.
FIRESAFETY TIMELINE
WHEN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER IS PLACED IN THE PARK POSITION, THE PARK PAWL DOES NOT ALWAYS ABUT OR ENGAGE THE PARK GEAR.
Remedy: REPAIR THE TRANSMISSION WITH A NEW PARK PAWL.
Campaign 91V189000 — check if this car was fixed
SEAT BELT ANCHORAGE BAR FOR REAR SOFA FAILED TO SUSTAIN LOADS REQUIRED BY FMVSS 210.
Remedy: REPLACE NONCOMPLYING SOFA BAR WITH BAR THAT MEETS REQUIREMENTS.
Campaign 91V164000 — check if this car was fixed
THE IGNITION SWITCH COULD EXPERIENCE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH.
Campaign 96V071000 — check if this car was fixed
PARKING PAWL
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.
Remedy: AIMCO WILL REIMBURSE CONSUMERS/INSTALLERS FOR THE COST OF REPLACEMENT ROTORS AND INSTALLATION. CONSUMERS ARE REQUESTED TO RETURN TO THE LOCATION WHERE THE ROTORS WERE ORIGINALLY PURCHASED/INSTALLED F
Campaign 98E010000 — check if this car was fixed
TRANSFER CASES AND REAR DRIVE SHAFT
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1991 Ford Aerostar — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (29 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (21 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (18 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 91V189000 (power train) has been completed.
- Verify recall 91V164000 (seat belts) has been completed.
- Verify recall 96V071000 (electrical system) has been completed.
- Verify recall 98E010000 (service brakes, air) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 1991 Ford Aerostar reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 1991 Ford Aerostar is rated "worse than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 1991 Ford Aerostar?
The most-reported component is electrical system:ignition:switch, accounting for 13% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1991 Ford Aerostar have?
4 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.