The 1986 Ford Aerostar has 4 recalls, the most serious being two separate fire risks: fuel can seep from a poorly sealed filler pipe joint and ignite, and on vehicles with the optional trailer tow package, undersized wiring in the taillight relay can overheat and catch fire.
On the structural side, rear suspension attachment points may have inadequate welds and can separate from the underbody, limiting axle movement during acceleration or braking and affecting steering control. There is also a safety equipment concern: the front passenger seatbelt webbing can fray or cut where it contacts the outboard seat back pivot hinge, weakening the belt over time.
At a glance
What can fail
The seal between the fuel tank filler pipe opening and grommet may be inadequate, allowing fuel to seep from the joint when the tank is full or nearly full.
What the fix does
The grommet will be replaced with a revised design that provides a proper seal.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The front passenger seat belt webbing can become frayed or cut where it rubs against the seat back pivot hinge.
What the fix does
A plastic cover will be installed over the hinge to stop the rubbing. Seat belts will be inspected and replaced if damaged.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The taillight relay wires in the trailer tow package are undersized compared to the fuse protecting the circuit. A short circuit or water in the relay could cause these wires to overheat and potentially catch fire.
What the fix does
A fuse will be installed in the trailer tow relay power circuit to protect it from short circuits and overheating.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Welds connecting rear suspension parts to the vehicle underbody may be inadequate, allowing these parts to separate during driving. This could limit axle movement and affect steering control.
What the fix does
No remedy description available.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
