1996 Ford Aerostar Review

william2233

Written by: william2233 on 09/25/2009

Vehicle

1996 Ford Aerostar 2 Dr XLT Passenger Van

Review

In the years I've owned this van, bought for wife. Went thru two sets of front disk brakes at 31,000 and 62,000 miles. Had too rebuild transmission at 80,000 miles thru Ammco transmissions, then again at Macy's transmission at about 100,000 miles. went out again at 150,000 mile junked it.

Favorite Features

Good gas mileage and cruise control, great for long trips.

Suggested Improvements

build better front brakes and transmission

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Too bad it had to go

Written by: Aerostar fan on 08/31/2009

Vehicle

1996 Ford Aerostar 2 Dr XLT Passenger Van Extended

Review

My second Aerostar. Bought the van with 50k on it and had to turn it in with 160k for the Cash for Clunker program. It had a tiny gasket leak that threw the air mixture off just enough for the Check Engine light to come on. Cost of repair was more than worth of van, even though it still ran like a top. It wouldn't be able to pass emissions test. Very dependable otherwise. Lots of space for vacation loads. Loved the higher driving level for visibility. Air conditioning great. Cup holders at front were worthless. Turning radius was terrible. I'm really going to miss it come vacations and for hauling stuff. Wish they'd make it again.

Favorite Features

Great visibility due to driving height. Comfortable seats w lumbar support. Cargo capacity excellent. Decent mileage.

Suggested Improvements

More and better cupholders. Easier engine access.

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Big Red

Written by: Steve on 01/13/2009

Vehicle

1996 Ford Aerostar 2 Dr XLT Passenger Van Extended

Review

I have owned "big Red" for almost 13 years, since it was brand new. It is the most dependable vehicle that I have owned.The 4.0 liter engine still runs strong, giving me about 20 mpg on the highway and 16mpg in the city. Besides normal maintenance and its first tune-up last week at 100,000 miles, I have had to only replace two oxygen sensors and a radiator at a total cost of $600. Since my sons have all grown, I only use the van for traveling; trips to Las Vegas, Laughlin, and the Rose Bowl, for football tailgate parties.

Favorite Features

The dependable and still working front and rear air conditioning which has never required any servicing. The large amount of cargo space and passenger space. The comfortable front captain's chairs. And since it is built on a truck frame/chassis, the solid truck-like feel.

Suggested Improvements

I wish Ford made the same vehicle today with today's improved technology and safety equipment advances.

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Excellent van

Written by: Tom on 05/28/2008

Vehicle

1996 Ford Aerostar 2 Dr XLT Passenger Van Extended

Review

We are nearing 200000 miles. This van has given us great service. Other than a clock spring, alternator, and a few sensors, this van has performed well. On a long trip fully loaded, traveling at interstate speeds, we averaged near 27 mpg. It has a 4.0 engine, autotrans with overdrive. On highways at 55 mph, we get 29 mpg.

Favorite Features

Room and comfort.

Suggested Improvements

Better cup holders and an adjustable passanger seat.

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Problem-free

Written by: Van on 05/20/2008

Vehicle

1996 Ford Aerostar 2 Dr XLT Passenger Van

Review

Love it! Have owned for 12 years, and have not experienced even a single problem. 3L engine is a bit wimpy, but willing to give up squeeling tires for good fuel economy. 4-speed auto. transmission is wonderfully smooth. Has never been tuned in 50,000+ miles, but pops right off on first try in sub- zero weather.

Favorite Features

Great visibility. Internal comfort for all passengers.

Suggested Improvements

Too late to suggest improvements; sadly, the vehicle is an orphan.

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