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 C d =0.37, besting the Lincoln Mark VII ).
133-600: 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
266-529: A "two-box" configuration; influenced somewhat by the Mercury Villager, the Windstar had a distinct hoodline and passenger compartment. Benchmarked in size against the long-wheelbase "Grand" Chrysler minivans, the Windstar was given a longer wheelbase than the Aerostar and both the second and third-generation Chrysler minivans; only a long-wheelbase version was marketed. In what would be a preview of
399-539: A bed); both rows of rear seats were removable. However, the interior also adopted several European-influenced design features. At its launch, the Aerostar used a floor-mounted shifter for both its manual and automatic transmissions; it was equipped with a handbrake (which remains a feature in all US-market Ford minivans). In a fashion similar to the Volkswagen Vanagon , the second-row windows slid open. While cupholders were relegated to an optional armrest in
532-409: A color-matched front air dam and color-matched rear mud flaps . On darker colors, the front grille and chrome was painted body color. The trim version of an Aerostar Sport is most easily identified by its wheels: XL Sport Wagons, with full wheel covers; XLT Sport Wagons (less common), with aluminum wheels. The Aerostar name was first revealed on a 1984 concept vehicle. Serving as a close preview of
665-402: A digital instrument panel was coupled with a trip computer, automatic headlamps, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Shared with Ford sedans, the Windstar offered a keyless entry system (using a door-mounted keypad) along with an alarm system. In contrast to its lack of a driver-side sliding door, the Windstar introduced several features to the minivan segment, including a door lock control from
798-545: A driver-side sliding door had sold poorly in the United States. The Windstar was the first North American-built van to be exported to Europe and sold through the official Ford Europe sales channel. It was slotted above the Ford Galaxy in size and equipment level. The sole powertrain was the 3.0 L V6 engine and automatic transmission, with no diesel engine nor manual transmission available. As it wasn't available in right-hand-drive form and with left-side sliding door, it
931-506: A flat dashboard, sharing many design elements with the then-upcoming Ford Five Hundred. In line with a number of competitive minivans, the Ford Freestar introduced a third-row seat that folded flat into the floor. The Freestar carried much of the trim lineup from the Windstar, with two exceptions. The "LX" and "Sport" trim levels were dropped in favor of the "SES" and "S" trims. The 2004–2007 Ford Freestar received an "Good" rating in
1064-824: A historic "M" nameplate for its minivan (the Monterey name was used from 1950 to 1974). In line with the Freestar, the Monterey adopted design elements from other Mercury vehicles, including the Mountaineer and Montego. Larger than the Villager, it was marketed as a competitor to the Buick Terraza (which replaced the Oldsmobile Silhouette ) and the Chrysler Town & Country . In line with
1197-565: A key selling point of the vehicle. To further live up to the first half of its name, the Aerostar adopted integrated plastic bumpers (also previewed by the Aerovan), in contrast to the attached metal bumpers of the E-series. To further improve fuel economy, Ford used multiple lightweight materials for the body, including plastic fuel tanks, liftgate doors, and hoods; aluminum was used for the driveshaft, axles, and wheels. In 1984, Ford debuted
1330-643: A large B-pillar also allowed for large window area. Beyond the drawing board, the design of the Aerostar progressed further by the introduction of two Ghia-designed 7-passenger concept vehicles, the 1982 Ford Aerovan and the 1984 Ford APV. Both derived from the Ford Escort: the Aerovan was a two-door wagon; the APV was a three-door MPV/van. While smaller than the American van project, the 1982 Ford Aerovan previewed
1463-471: A mid-cycle redesign with new front fenders, a restyled hood and grille, and flush-mounted composite headlamps (with larger marker lamps). To further improve aerodynamics, the front bumper was redesigned and enlarged to fit more closely with the front fenders. Badging was revised; the fender icons were restyled, and the "FORD" lettering on the right-hand side of the XLT-significant tailgate trim panel
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#17327795367991596-407: A million sales per year. Project Yuma was centered around quality and fuel efficiency . At the beginning of the project, Ford researched additional elements that were valued by potential compact truck buyers. Along with flexibility for both work and personal use, Ford found that buyers desired additional interior room, including three-across seating, comfortable seats, and headroom and legroom for
1729-486: A minor revision, coinciding with the addition of the tilt-slide driver's seat; the power vent switches were moved to the driver's door and an intermittent wipe was added for the rear wiper; while the dashboard remained unchanged, head restraints were added to the rear bench seats (already on rear bucket seats). Largely to make up for the retirement of the Aerostar Eddie Bauer, a "Northwoods" appearance package
1862-688: A moderate head and neck injury to the driver. In 2009, the 2005 Freestar scored second place in J.D. Power's Vehicle Dependability Study, behind the Dodge Caravan. For the 2004 model year, the Ford Windstar/Freestar gained a Mercury counterpart with the introduction of the Mercury Monterey , replacing the Mercury Villager . In line with Ford introducing "F" nameplates during the early 2000s, Mercury revived
1995-552: A profit from its redesign of the F-Series . Ford President Don Petersen kept the compact truck project alive for several reasons. By 1980, General Motors was developing its own domestically produced compact truck, with the Chevrolet S-10/GMC S-15 providing a potential competitor. Peterson also felt that, if equipped correctly, buyers would pay nearly the same for a compact truck as a full-size truck (such as
2128-473: A response to the Dodge Grand Caravan and Plymouth Grand Voyager, Ford released an (unnamed) extended-length version of the Aerostar for the 1989 model year. Extending the rear body 14 inches in length, the option shared the 119-inch wheelbase with the standard-length body. During the 1990s, the extended-length Aerostar would become the most popular version of the vehicle. For 1989, the exterior
2261-609: A revival of the Mercury Monterey nameplate. Following a decline in sales across the minivan segment in the mid-2000s, the Freestar and Monterey were discontinued after the 2007 model year with no direct replacement. In North America, the model line was functionally matched by the 7-passenger 2008 Ford Taurus X wagon/CUV; in Mexico, the Freestar was replaced by the Ford Transit/Tourneo. In 2014, Ford reentered
2394-422: A shortened 1997 model year (lasting from October 1996 to January 1997), the 1998 Windstar was introduced. Coinciding with a mid-cycle revision, to compete with the introduction of driver-side sliding doors, Ford widened the driver-side door and added an optional tilting/sliding driver seat. The front fascia underwent a facelift, adopting a trapezoidal grille and redesigned headlamps (with amber turn signal lenses);
2527-428: A single generation. For Ford Motor Company, the development of the minivan began life in the early 1970s as a companion model to the third-generation Ford Econoline/Club Wagon , under development for the 1975 model year. As the full-size van was slated to grow in size, Ford explored the concept of a "garageable van", designed with a roofline to easily fit through a typical garage door opening. Additional objectives for
2660-463: A six-foot-tall driver; other minor details were discovered such as five-bolt wheels and a larger ashtray. During design, the body underwent extensive wind tunnel testing, to meet a planned 20 MPG fuel efficiency target (on its own, the standard front bumper spoiler added 1 MPG); its 0.45 drag coefficient bested that of the two-door Ford Mustang. To further improve fuel economy, the Ranger increased
2793-504: A smaller all-new design could accommodate several design features desired in the marketplace. The new van project adopted a rear-wheel drive layout for two primary reasons. While the new van was to given a carlike ride (its 119-inch wheelbase largely placed the wheels at all four corners), another key objective for the design to tow 5000 pounds (matching the Ford Ranger , then also in design). To lower production and engineering costs,
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#17327795367992926-580: A smaller-proportioned F-Series to a more aerodynamic design, no longer sharing its front fascia with the Ford Explorer . For the first time in the compact segment, the Ranger offered a stepside-style bed with the Ranger Splash. For the 1994 model year, Ford commenced production of the Ranger for Mazda , who began to sell the model line as the B-Series pickup truck (effectively in reverse of
3059-502: A tan outdoors-themed interior. As on the XLT, cloth seating surfaces were standard; as part of the 1992 update, leather seats became an option. A standard feature of the trim package (an option on the XLT) was a feature allowing the second and third row bench seats to fold flat into a large bed across the rear half of the interior. However, a large number of Eddie Bauer Aerostars were ordered with
3192-512: A three-engine lineup, adopted from the Ranger/Bronco II. A 2.3L inline-4 was to be standard, along with a 2.8L V6; as a first for an American-produced minivan, a 2.3L turbodiesel inline-4 was to be offered as a second option. To officially launch the model line in the summer of 1985, Ford used the "Ford Aerostar Airlift", using eight Lockheed C-130 Hercules transport aircraft to simultaneously airlift Aerostars into eight cities across
3325-432: A trim package. Marketed above the XLT, the Aerostar Eddie Bauer was the first minivan marketed towards luxury buyers (for 1988, the Chrysler Town & Country was produced as a compact station wagon, not becoming a minivan until the 1990 model year). The Eddie Bauer trim combined the interior convenience features of the XLT trim with two-tone exterior paint (tan as the accent color on the rocker panels and wheel trim) and
3458-408: Is centered on the torque converter , specifically the failure of the torque converter spline shaft, these failures often required the entire transaxle be rebuilt or replaced. Ford later recalled 2004 and 2005 Freestars and Montereys to have the torque converter replaced free of charge, although 2006-2007 models still suffered from torque converter problems, despite not being recalled. In the redesign,
3591-575: The 1996 Ford Taurus , the Windstar was designed with an oval rear window, though adopting several design elements of the Mercury Villager/Nissan Quest. While far more vertically-oriented, the curved dashboard of the Windstar shares influences of the multi-tiered design used by the Lincoln Mark VIII . For 1996 and 1997, there were no exterior changes except the base-trim model renamed the 3.0L. The GL did however get
3724-595: The Ford Explorer SUV was derived from the facelifted Ranger, sharing its front fascia, chassis, and interior components. The first-generation Ranger uses a body-on-frame chassis design; while using a chassis developed specifically for the model line, the Ranger adopts many chassis design elements from the F-Series. Along with traditional leaf-spring rear suspension, the Ranger is fitted with Twin I-Beam independent front suspension. To minimize unsprung weight ,
3857-647: The Louisville assembly line on January 18, 1982. While initially slated for a traditional autumn release, to more closely compete with the introduction of the Chevrolet S-10 , Ford advanced the launch of the 1983 Ranger several months, with the first vehicles reaching showrooms in March 1982. Initially sold alongside its Courier predecessor, the first 1983 Ranger was priced at US$ 6,203 (equivalent to $ 19,584 in 2023). While far smaller in exterior size than
3990-639: The New Edge styling language, the redesign also was distinguished by the addition of a driver's side sliding door. While retaining mechanical commonality with the Taurus/Sable, Ford shifted the Windstar to a dedicated chassis architecture, introducing the Ford V platform . Several major features made their debut, including front seat-mounted side airbags on vans with VINs starting with 2FMDA, dual power-sliding doors, and rear reverse sensors. The 2002 Windstar
4123-623: The "garageable van" included increased interior space (over station wagons) and more desirable styling (over full-size vans). Dubbed the Ford Carousel, a prototype was tested from 1972 to 1974, using the 124-inch wheelbase chassis of the Club Wagon. To achieve its "garageable" status, the roofline of the Carousel was lowered approximately 12 inches in comparison to a standard-wheelbase Ford Club Wagon, placing its height close to that of
Ford Aerostar - Misplaced Pages Continue
4256-433: The $ 700 million project was compliance with the fuel economy standards of the mid-1980s. At the launch of the project in 1976, Ford predicted that for the company to properly comply with 1985 CAFE standards, nearly 50% of pickup trucks sold in the United States would require a four-cylinder engine. In 1976, compact trucks held a 5% share of pickup truck sales, with Ford predicting an expansion to 50% by 1985, equaling nearly
4389-585: The 1972 model year, the Ford Courier was introduced as the first compact pickup truck sold by Ford. Following the rise of the compact truck segment during the 1960s, Ford entered into a partnership with Mazda to market the Mazda B1800 in North America; the Courier would become the first of several jointly manufactured vehicles between the two companies from the 1970s into the 2000s. Along with minimizing
4522-480: The 1972–1982 agreement that produced the Ford Courier). For 1995, the second-generation Ranger underwent a mid-cycle revision; in 1996, the model line became the first compact pickup to offer dual airbags. The second-generation Ranger carried much of its chassis design from its predecessor, with a leaf-sprung rear suspension and a Twin-I-Beam independent front suspension. Two wheelbases were carried over from
4655-415: The 1984 concept car were adopted by the production vehicle, including the bumper covers, fuel tank, and rear hatch. For 1988, the exterior saw a minor detail change to exterior badging, relocating it from both fenders to the tailgate; it was also changed from chrome to silver in color. In another revision, the "V6" and "Electronic Fuel Injection" badges were deleted (as both features were now standard). As
4788-593: The 1994 model year). By 1989, design work was well underway, with a concept design theme being settled on by December 1989. In 1990, the WIN88 exterior design by Camilo Pardo was frozen for scheduled 1993 production, with prototypes being tested from early 1991. Trademarks were filed for the Windstar name at the USPTO on April 13, 1992, with development ending in 1993. While developed by the Ford truck division (the designers of
4921-422: The 1995 to 1997 model years, the Windstar was sold concurrently with its Ford Aerostar predecessor; initially slated for discontinuation following the 1994 model year, continued consumer and dealer demand for the Aerostar led Ford to market both vehicles. For its first year on the market, the Windstar was priced above both the Aerostar and the Mercury Villager. By 1997, however, the Villager's base price had surpassed
5054-681: The 1997 discontinuation of the model line, Ford did not offer all-wheel drive as an option for North American-market vans until the 2020 Transit. Distinguished by its sloped-nosed design, the Ford Aerostar utilized a "one-box" design similar to the Ford Transit and Renault Espace; in contrast to its European counterparts, the long wheelbase of the Aerostar placed the wheels near the corners, minimizing body overhangs. In an effort to further improve its fuel efficiency and aerodynamics (and lower its curb weight), multiple plastic body parts from
5187-568: The 2004 model year, the third generation Ford Windstar was released; as part of a mid-2000s rebranding of the Ford car model line with nameplates starting with the letter "F", the Windstar was renamed the Ford Freestar . Sharing the MV1 platform with the 2000-2003 Ford Windstar, the primary initiative of the $ 600 million redesign focused on driveline reliability, an issue that had plagued the Windstar since its 1994 introduction. In its development,
5320-444: The 25% Chicken Tax on imported trucks, both vehicles were imported as chassis-cab trucks (taxed at 4% tariff). Following their importation to United States, pickup truck beds shipped separately from Japan were installed before shipment to dealers. In 1976, Ford commenced development on "Project Yuma" as a replacement for the Courier. In addition to designing the first domestically produced compact truck, another key factor driving
5453-411: The Aerostar and Econoline/Club Wagon), the Windstar was designed predominantly by a women-led engineering and design team. Intended nearly exclusively for family use, the design team considered design scenarios from the perspective of pregnant women, women wearing skirts and high heels, and adopted family-friendly design features (reconfigurable cupholders, auxiliary stereo controls). The Ford Windstar
Ford Aerostar - Misplaced Pages Continue
5586-468: The Aerostar nameplate on a concept vehicle. Nearly identical to the production vehicle, the 1984 concept was styled with a two-slot grille and composite-lens headlamps; along with skirted rear fenders, the concept differed in detail changes related to the taillamps, windows, and door handles. Intended for an early 1986 model-year introduction (prior to the Taurus), the production Aerostar was intended to have
5719-625: The Aerostar trim line was consolidated to the cargo van and the Aerostar XLT. In 1992, the Aerostar Sport was introduced as an option package available for any non-Eddie Bauer Aerostar Wagon. Similar to its Chevrolet Astro RS/GMC Safari CS and Dodge Caravan ES counterparts, the Aerostar Sport was largely a cosmetic upgrade. Distinguished by their silver-accented paint and "Sport" pinstriping, the Sport featured integrated running boards with
5852-583: The Benteler Axle in March 1998 resulted in failure of two out of the eleven axles tested. In August 1998, Ford determined the cause of this failure was improper heat treating. In September 1998, the axle manufacturer Bentley Automotive agreed with Ford's findings. In October 1999, Ford's internal documents show lab testing proved the axle life could be doubled by heat treating, but would require initial retooling cost and result in $ 3.45 piece cost increase. No changes were made until March 2003. In March 2011,
5985-664: The Carousel prototype; through the rest of the 1970s, the company continued to see potential in "garageable vans", pursuing further design and market research on the subject. By 1980, Ford committed to a smaller vehicle, partially as the American automotive industry learned of the development of the Chrysler minivans; following the 1979 gas crisis, the company felt a 1980s release of the Carousel (a rebodied E-Series) could be an uncompetitive decision. Along with potential fuel economy increases, in its marketplace research, Ford discovered
6118-504: The Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari, Volkswagen Vanagon, and its Japanese competition, it consistently remained in second place in terms of sales in the minivan segment. To better compete with Chrysler, Ford decided its next minivan would adopt the same front-wheel drive layout popularized by Chrysler. Codenamed "WIN88" , development of the front-wheel drive minivan commenced in 1988 with a projected 1993 introduction (for
6251-606: The Courier and B1800 (later B2000) were redesigned with a larger cab, redesigned pickup bed, and tailgate. While closer in appearance to its Mazda counterpart, the Courier was given signal/parking lamps inset in the grille (rather than the bumper); an optional 2.3L Ford engine was not available in the Mazda pickups. From 1972 to 1982, the Ford Courier was manufactured alongside the Mazda B-Series in Hiroshima, Japan . To avoid
6384-531: The Courier, the Ranger was offered with two pickup bed sizes; a standard 6-foot length and an extended 7-foot length. In 1986, a third configuration was introduced with the advent of the Ranger SuperCab. Extended 17 inches behind the front doors for additional cab space, the SuperCab was offered with the 6-foot bed length; four-wheel-drive SuperCabs were sold only with V6 engines. During its production,
6517-469: The Courier, the first-generation Ranger was approximately 18 inches shorter and 11 inches narrower than an equivalently configured F-100/F-150. While proportioned similar to the Chevrolet S-10 and Japanese-sourced compact trucks, it adopted exterior design elements from the F-Series, including its twin headlamps, chrome grille, "FORD" tailgate lettering, tail-lamps, and cab proportions. In line with
6650-769: The F-100). Around 1980, the Project Yuma truck took on the Ford Ranger name, adopting the name of the mid to upper-level trim used by the Ford F-Series since 1965. In anticipation of the compact truck line, 1981 marked the final use of the Ranger trim for the F-Series and Bronco (replaced by XLS for 1982). The Ranger was produced at the Louisville Assembly Plant in Louisville, Kentucky , from 1982 to 1999. From 1993 to 2004, production also
6783-641: The F-Series, 4×4 Rangers offered a payload of 1,600 pounds, matching or exceeding the F-100 in payload capacity. For 1984, the Ford Bronco II two-door SUV was introduced. Similar in size to the 1966–1977 Bronco, the Bronco II used a shortened version of the Ranger chassis, along with much of its interior components. For the 1989 model year, the Ranger underwent a major mid-cycle revision to improve its exterior aerodynamics and interior ergonomics. For 1991,
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#17327795367996916-411: The Ford Freestar saw a minor exterior facelift. While retaining much of the roofline of the previous-generation Windstar, in a shift away from New Edge design language, the Freestar adopted styling elements from several Ford vehicles, including the Ford Explorer , Ford Freestyle , and Ford Five Hundred . Shifting from the trademark curved dashboard of the previous Ford Windstar, the Ford Freestar adopted
7049-582: The Ford Taurus/Mercury Sable. For its 1995 launch, the 3.8L V6 was the sole engine in GL and LX Models, producing 155 hp; a 150 hp 3.0L V6 was introduced as the standard engine in October 1995 for base and lower GL models. For 1996, the 3.8L V6 saw its output increased to 200 hp. To compete more closely with the Chrysler minivans, Ford designers shifted from a "one-box" design to
7182-453: The Ford truck line). Many features standard on the XLT were available as extra-cost options on the XL, such as power windows, mirrors, and locks; air conditioning; and privacy glass. XLT-trim Wagons also included the following features as extra-cost options: Introduced during the 1988 model year, the Aerostar was one of the first Ford vehicles to feature the outdoors-themed Eddie Bauer brand as
7315-614: The Freestar saw the addition of heavier-duty drive axles, larger wheel bearings, and the standardization of four-wheel disc brakes. The 3.0L and 3.8L V6 engines were both retired, in favor of two new engines. In the United States (only), the Freestar was powered by a 193 hp 3.9L V6 (shared with the Ford Mustang) while an optional 201 hp 4.2L V6 (the base engine of the Ford E-150) was standard for Canada and export vans. The 3.9L and 4.2L V6 engines were both enlarged versions of
7448-474: The IIHS for fair structural performance, moderate injuries to the left foot, and fair dummy control. Although most redesigned vehicles outperform their predecessors to cut down insurance costs and possible injuries to the driver, this generation Windstar did not perform as well as its first generation predecessor. The NHTSA graded the minivan an overall rating of 5 stars in both the frontal and side impact tests. For
7581-497: The LX as standard. The 1995–1998 Ford Windstar, which was tested as a 1995 model received a "Excellent" (5-stars) rating from the IIHS in all marks, in which the driver survives the accident without any injuries. It was marketed as the "Safest minivan on the market." During and after its production, this generation of the Windstar would become known for several notable reliability issues. The 3.8 L V6 Essex engine in 1995 models
7714-400: The Monterey fell far under projections, driven primarily by an overall decline of the minivan segment in North America. In total, 32,195 examples were sold over its three-year production run. After selling far under sales projections, Ford discontinued the Freestar and Monterey after the 2007 model year. The final Monterey was produced by Oakville Assembly on August 25, 2006; the final Freestar
7847-540: The Mustang) was standard with a 115 hp 2.8 L V6 (from Ford of Europe) offered as an option; as a running change during 1986, the 2.8 L engine was replaced by a 145 hp 3.0 L V6 (shared with the Ford Taurus/Mercury Sable). Initially intended as an option, the four-cylinder turbodiesel of the 1984 concept vehicle was dropped after prototype testing. For 1988, the 2.3 L engine
7980-527: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Ford announced another Ford Windstar recall over corrosion concerns. 425,288 of the model year 1999–2003 Windstar vans originally sold or currently registered in some cold weather states are part of the recall. The problem involves rusting of the subframe. Most of the corrosion occurs on the passenger side of the subframe. If the subframe collapses while driving,
8113-476: The Pinto engine was introduced in 1989, remaining in use through 2001. In 1990, the 4.0L Cologne V6 was introduced; in modified form, the engine was used through the 2012 model-year discontinuation of the Ranger in North America. A four-speed manual transmission was standard on all engines for 1983 and 1984, with a five-speed manual as an option; a three-speed automatic was offered on 2.3L and 2.8L engines. For 1985,
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#17327795367998246-476: The Ranger GT option package from 1987 to 1989. Marketed as a "sport pickup," the Ranger GT was offered only for regular-cab two-wheel drive Rangers. Powered by a 140 hp 2.9L V6 (paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission), the Ranger GT was equipped with front and rear anti-roll bars , a limited-slip differential, and performance tires. Initially offered for short-bed Rangers,
8379-401: The Ranger GT package became available for long-bed two-wheel drive Rangers. The Ranger GT was available in either red, white, or blue paint colors; chrome trim was painted body color. In 1988, the exterior was modified, with a ground effects package, including a redesigned body-color front bumper, allowing for integrated fog lamps. For 1990, the Ranger GT was discontinued; a one-off prototype
8512-401: The Ranger in North America, although its high productivity spared it from The Way Forward . Twin Cities Assembly (built in 1925) was the oldest Ford factory in the world. Ford later extended the closure date of the factory to 2011, but in June 2011, a final closure date was announced. As Twin Cities was the sole production location of the Ranger in North America (from 1982), its closure brought
8645-506: The Ranger was given the capability to transport a four-foot-wide sheet of material (considered an industry measure of space in pickup truck bed design) through the use of recesses to insert supports across the bed, allowing such material to be placed above the wheel wells. The 1979 fuel crisis nearly doomed the Yuma/Ranger project, as it occurred between launch of the 1979 Ford LTD and 1980 Ford F-Series . After selling nearly one million F-Series trucks in 1978, in 1980, Ford had yet to gain
8778-399: The Ranger would be used for several compact Ford trucks and sport-utility vehicles . During the 1990s and 2000s, Mazda adopted a badge-engineered version of the Ranger, for their B-Series nameplate (the reverse of the Ford Courier produced by Mazda). In 2015, as part of contract negotiations with the United Auto Workers, leaked reports over the future of the Michigan Assembly Plant included
8911-404: The Ranger/Bronco II, the Aerostar was available with a five-speed manual until 1995 (nearly exclusively in cargo vans and XL trim); in contrast to Chrysler minivans, all automatic transmissions were 4-speed overdrive units. For 1997, a 5-speed overdrive automatic transmission was introduced for the 4.0 L V6 (a first in the minivan segment). 4-speed automatic 5-speed automatic The Vulcan V6
9044-461: The Twin I-Beams were constructed of stamped high-strength steel (rather than forged steel). Rear-wheel drive was standard, with part-time four-wheel drive as an option (never offered in the Courier). Dependent on configuration, the Ranger was produced in three wheelbases: 107.9 inches (6-foot bed), 113.9 inches (7-foot bed), and 125 inches (SuperCab, introduced in 1986). For 1989, rear-wheel anti-lock brakes became standard. From 1983 to 1992,
9177-460: The United States. In total, the entire development of the model line would cost Ford over $ 300 million; though lower in cost than the development of the Chrysler minivans, the Ford Aerostar was developed at the same time as the Ford Taurus (costing Ford $ 3.5 billion) The Ford Aerostar (developed under Ford model code VN1, the first Ford chassis given an alphanumeric designation) uses a rear-wheel drive chassis configuration. Developed specifically for
9310-446: The Windstar adopted the front-wheel drive configuration of the Chrysler minivans . From the 1995 to 2007 model years, three generations of the model line were sold, with the final generation renamed as the Ford Freestar. Unrelated to the Nissan-developed Mercury Villager , the Windstar was marketed without a Lincoln-Mercury counterpart. As part of the 2004 launch of the Ford Freestar, Mercury introduced its first Ford-produced minivan in
9443-477: The Windstar's by several hundred dollars, and top-of-the-line Villager Nautica models were priced some $ 6,000 USD higher. In what would later become a design faux pas, this generation of the model line was marketed without a driver-side sliding door , a feature popularized by the introduction of third-generation Chrysler minivans. During its development, Ford claimed its focus groups did not identify it as an important feature ; previously, vans (of all sizes) with
9576-493: The automotive industry, including the 1971–1996 Chevrolet Van and 1984–2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ . In a break from Ford light-truck precedent, the Aerostar did not use Twin I-Beam front suspension, instead using unequal-length A-arms and coil springs for the front suspension. The rear suspension was a coil-sprung live rear axle fitted with a three-link configuration (similar to the Ford Panther-platform chassis of
9709-424: The configuration over rear and mid-engine vehicles (used by German/Japanese imported vans). The rear-wheel drive platform was engineered with class-leading payload and towing capacity over front-wheel drive minivans, with a 2000-pound payload and 5000-pound tow rating (2½ times the capacity of the Chrysler minivans). In the change from concept to production, very little of the exterior design would change, except for
9842-477: The controls were improved (many shared with the redesigned 1992 Econoline), introducing a column-shift automatic transmission. For 1993, integrated child safety seats were introduced as an option. Along with a cargo van (distinguished by its available double rear doors and lack of side windows), the Aerostar passenger van (called the Wagon) came in two trim levels: base-trim XL and deluxe-trim XLT (in keeping with
9975-546: The design of the rear axle beam, an inverted "U" channel design, appeared to provide a collection point for road slurry. In states which used much road salt, corrosion progressively weakened the axle until it fractured. The states covered by the recall were Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin, as well as Washington D.C. In May 2012, 27,000 of
10108-498: The development of the Fox platform , Panther platform , and 1980 Ford F-Series . Along with it not replacing an existing Ford model line, the Carousel did not compete against an existing GM or Chrysler vehicle. Developed during the 1973 energy crisis, the Carousel was fitted with a 460 V8, shared with full-size Ford vehicles and one-ton Ford trucks. In 1978, Lee Iacocca and Hal Sperlich both departed Ford and were hired by Chrysler. At
10241-513: The final 2012 Ranger was the final vehicle produced at the St. Paul facility. The current fourth-generation Ranger is manufactured by Ford at Wayne Stamping & Assembly ( Wayne, Michigan ). Ford of Argentina produced the Ranger in its General Pacheco plant from 1998 to 2011; it replaced the North American–designed version of the Ranger with the current Ranger T6 for 2012 production. For
10374-433: The first-generation Ranger was offered with several seating configurations. A three-passenger bench seat was standard, with various types of bucket seats offered (dependent on trim level). As part of the 1989 mid-cycle update, a 40/60 split-bench seat was introduced. The SuperCab was offered with a pair of center-facing jump seats, expanding capacity to five. From 1983 to 1988, the interior saw few major revisions. In 1986,
10507-429: The first-generation Ranger was powered by 2.0L and 2.3L versions of the Ford " Lima " inline-4; the 2.8L, 2.9L, and 4.0L Ford Cologne V6 ; the 3.0L Ford Vulcan V6 ; and four-cylinder diesel engines sourced from Mazda (Perkins) and Mitsubishi. Two long-running engines associated with the Ford light trucks made their debut in the first-generation Ranger; the twin spark-plug version (with distributorless ignition) of
10640-539: The five-speed manual became the standard transmission, with a four-speed automatic offered on non-diesel Rangers. For 1989, the Mazda M5OD-R1 transmission became the standard transmission. 1985–1992 (EFI) 1989–1992: 100 hp 177 cu in (2.9 L) OHV V6 244 cu in (4.0 L) OHV V6 1986–1992 (2.9L) 1990–1992 (4.0L) 2.9L: 4.0L: 160 hp (Perkins 4.135) naturally aspirated, IDI turbocharged, IDI Slightly larger than
10773-463: The heft of the overall vehicle, the tierod ends required constant replacement. The front springs were prone to breaking (Covered under safety recall) in specific markets where extreme cold and heavy salt use in winter months occurred. Released in the summer of 1998 as an early 1999 model, the Ford Windstar was given a complete redesign. As one of the first Ford vehicles in North America to adopt
10906-554: The highest trim levels, respectively. Although all versions of the Windstar wagon were sold with 7-passenger seating, LX-trim Windstars are equipped with 2nd-row bench seats; SE and SEL-trim examples are equipped with 2nd-row bucket seats. In August 2010, Ford issued a voluntary recall of 575,000 Windstar minivans for rear axle problems. This recall followed an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration which had begun in May 2010. The NHTSA preliminary evaluation stated
11039-536: The instrument cluster was revised, allowing the fitment of a tachometer. To streamline production, the Ranger shared interior components with other Ford vehicles, sharing the steering column, door handles, and window controls from the Ford Escort, Ford F-Series, and Ford Bronco; nearly the entire driver's compartment of the Ford Bronco II was directly sourced from the Ranger. For 1989, the Ranger underwent
11172-457: The later Ford Windstar/Freestar. The Carousel also received a more steeply raked windshield, a new, longer, front fascia, and a wagon-style roofline, with wraparound window glass. In a key indication of its future as a family-oriented vehicle, the Carousel had a rear tailgate with a drop-down rear window; like the LTD station wagon, it was fitted with simulated exterior woodgrain trim. The interior of
11305-533: The later Mariner, Milan, and Montego, three trim levels were offered for the Monterey: Convenience, Luxury, and Premier. Features such as power-sliding doors and a rear-seat DVD player were available on Luxury and Premier trim lines. Unique to the Premier was the option of heated and cooled front seats, a class exclusive at the time. The Monterey was offered solely with the 4.2 L V6 engine. Sales of
11438-411: The long-running 3.8L V6. As part of the initiative to improve driveline reliability, the 4-speed automatic transmission saw upgrades for improved shifting and reliability. Despite that, transmission failures were still common. NHTSA launched an investigation into the 2004 and 2005 Freestar and Monterey due to numerous complaints with regard to the equipped 4F50N transmission. Although the investigation
11571-406: The minivans from Virginia were added to the axle recall, bringing the overall total to more than 600,000 vehicles between the U.S. and Canada. A class action lawsuit was filed against Ford Motor Company in May 2010 proceeding Ford's recall. This lawsuit was filed by Plaintiff Aaron Martin against Defendant Ford Motor Company. In this lawsuit, documents were introduced which showed Ford's testing of
11704-476: The model line has been sold across the Americas; Ford of Argentina began production of the Ranger for South America in 1998. Through its production, the model line has served as a close rival to the Chevrolet S-10 and its Chevrolet Colorado successor (and their GMC counterparts), with the Ranger as the best-selling compact truck in the United States from 1987 to 2004. From 2012 to 2018, the Ranger model line
11837-546: The model line, the chassis combines unibody chassis construction with full-length frame rails. While using unibody chassis construction to reduce weight, the hybrid frame design provided the Aerostar with a 5,000-pound tow rating ( 2 + 1 ⁄ 2 times the Caravan/Voyager, and matching that of the Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari . The design has been utilized by other widely produced designs in
11970-619: The model nomenclature used by the majority of the Ford car lineup. For retail sales, the base trim Windstar was the GL, with the Windstar LX as the flagship model. For 1998, the Limited trim was introduced, distinguished by its monochromatic exterior and five-spoke 16-inch chrome wheels; wood interior trim was added. Slotted above both the LX and the Mercury Villager LS, the Windstar was offered with all optional features from
12103-440: The offset frontal crash test from the IIHS and outperformed the 1999–2003 Ford Windstar, but resulted in moderate injuries only on the head and neck. In the side-impact tests, it received a "Poor" rating without the optional side airbags for poor structural performance, potential head and neck injuries, and high forces on the driver's torso, but fared better with the side airbags, earning an overall "Acceptable" rating, but resulted in
12236-405: The option of Quad Command Bucket Seats which was coupled with alloy wheels and a premium audio system. Most dealers marketed it as a "GLX" model. The Quad Command Seating changed the seats from the high back buckets in the front to the low back bucket seats. Traction control was also available on upper end GL Models. The first-generation Windstar underwent few revisions during its production. After
12369-487: The optional fog lamps were moved out of the lower intake of the grille. The rear saw mild revisions, with revised tailgate badging, with larger model script and the centering of the Ford Blue Oval over the license plate). On all trim levels, new wheel covers and alloy wheel designs were introduced; the body side moldings were restyled, the GL and LX/Limited models featured specific bodyside moldings. The interior saw
12502-464: The optional second-row bucket seats/captain's chairs. Following the introduction of the extended-length wagon in 1989, the Eddie Bauer trim was available in both body configurations. After 1989, the option package came with the 4.0L V6 standard, though buyers could choose between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive powertrains. After the 1994 model year, the Eddie Bauer trim was discontinued as
12635-566: The potential decision of replacing Ford Focus and Ford C-Max production with an American-market version of the global Ranger. Along with the revival of the Ranger nameplate, the UAW negotiations also included a potential revival of the Ford Bronco SUV. At the 2017 North American International Auto Show , Ford confirmed the return of the Ranger and Ford Bronco, with the Ford Ranger as a 2019 model-year vehicle. The first Ranger rolled off
12768-454: The previous generation: 107.9 inches (short bed), 113.9 inches (long bed), with the SuperCab lengthened to 125.2 inches (0.2 inches longer). Rear-wheel drive remained standard, with four-wheel drive as an option; a Dana 35 TTB front axle was used. With four-wheel drive Rangers, a manually-shifted transfer case was standard; a "Touch Drive" electronically shifted transfer case was an option, using automatic-locking front-wheel hubs. For 1995,
12901-557: The production model line, the 1984 Ford Aerostar was one of the most aerodynamic vehicles designed by Ford (at the time); with a drag coefficient of C d =0.37, the Aerostar was sleeker than the Ford Mustang SVO and the Lincoln Continental Mark VII . The front-engine configuration of the Aerostar was chosen for multiple reasons. In its research, Ford found that potential buyers preferred
13034-405: The production of the Ranger to an end after 29 model years. The 2011 model year was the final model year for retail sales, with a shortened 2012 model year for fleet sales; the final North American market Ranger (a white SuperCab Sport produced for pest-control company Orkin ) was produced just before 10 a.m. local time on December 16, 2011. Over its production life, the chassis and suspension of
13167-490: The prototype was fitted two rear bench seats trimmed similar to the Ford Country Squire and Mercury Colony Park . While the prototype would receive a positive response from many Ford executives, for a potential 1976 introduction, the Carousel did not reach production under any model name. At the time of its development, financial constraints forced the company to divert funds towards critical projects, such as
13300-526: The rear door (unless with the family security package, the rear button was omitted.) and a wide-angle mirror in the overhead console allowing a view of the rear passenger compartment. In line with the Aerostar and the Econoline/Club Wagon, the Windstar was sold as both a passenger van and as a cargo van. In place of using the XL/XLT nomenclature used by Ford trucks and vans, the Windstar adopted
13433-450: The rear suspension was a beam axle using coil springs; air suspension was an option. Front brakes were discs, with rear drum brakes; anti-lock braking was standard. In 1996, four-wheel disc brakes were introduced as an option (when ordered with traction control or the towing package). In contrast to the Aerostar, 15-inch wheels were fitted to the first-generation Windstar (except the 1998 Limited). The Windstar shared its powertrains with
13566-527: The rear, an LCD display was installed for the use of displaying 12 pre-programmed warning messages. Link to HFX Aerostar Ghia images . The Aerostar was named Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 1990. Ford Windstar The Ford Windstar (later the Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey ) is a minivan that was produced and sold by Ford . The replacement for the Ford Aerostar ,
13699-487: The rear-wheel drive configuration allowed shared mechanical components with multiple Ford light trucks. While Chrysler and GM small vans shared chassis commonality with other model lines (to varying degrees), the Ford small van received a model-distinct chassis (with model-specific front and rear suspension). The design of the Aerostar carried over two primary design features of the 1972 Carousel prototype, including its approximate 6-foot "garageable" height and long wheelbase;
13832-474: The risk for Ford of developing a vehicle in an unfamiliar market segment, the partnership provided Mazda with critically needed funds. While sharing the cab and chassis with its Mazda counterpart, to increase its sales potential in North America, the Courier adapted design elements of the Ford F-Series , with twin round headlamps, silver grille, and "FORD" lettering on the hood above the grille. In 1977,
13965-408: The sealed-beam headlights with replaceable-bulb composite units (and clear-lens turn-signal lenses). While remaining 14 inches in size, nearly all versions of the Aerostar received restyled wheels. In anticipation of withdrawing the model line after 1994, few changes were made to the Aerostar after 1992. To comply with federal regulations, the body received a center brake light for 1994. For 1997,
14098-496: The segment as the Ford Transit Connect compact MPV gained 7-passenger seating in North America. During its production the Ford Windstar/Freestar and the Mercury Monterey were sourced from Oakville Assembly ( Oakville, Ontario ). In total, 1,984,232 were produced (1,704,786 Windstars, 246,493 Freestars, and 32,953 Montereys). In 1985, Ford launched the Aerostar minivan with some degree of success; while it outsold
14231-437: The sloped-nose front fascia of both the Aerostar and the larger 1986 Ford Transit. While designed by its European-owned styling firm, the design of the Aerovan received a positive response from the public, leading Ford to progress with a highly advanced design for the exterior. Though the company would ultimately trail the Chrysler minivans by nearly two years in its introduction, Ford considered innovative design and features as
14364-521: The stock 3.0L Vulcan V6 and A4LD automatic transmission. The HFX concept borrowed some features used in other Ford vehicles, such as four-wheel air suspension and electronic climate control. From there, some of the technologies showcased in the HFX had never before been seen in a minivan; this included run-flat tires, adjustable pedals, power-sliding side doors, electric power steering, ABS, traction control, seatbelt pretensioners, and movable grille shutters. On
14497-679: The successor to the 1970s " Free Wheeling " trims) while the XLT was offered with two-tone exteriors, chrome exterior trim, and upgraded interior trim. The Ranger STX was introduced in 1985 for Ranger 4x4s on the West Coast of the United States, becoming fully available for 1986. Offering a "sport" suspension and larger tires, the STX was denoted by the offering of a bucket-seat interior and model-specific two-tone paint scheme. Following an initial late-1986 introduction in California, Ford marketed
14630-603: The taillamps were revised for the first time (with the deletion of the amber turn signal lenses); XLT-trim vehicles received newly designed 14×6" seven-hole alloy wheels. In contrast to its contemporary one-box exterior design, the Ford Aerostar adopted many industry-standard features in its interior design. Sharing the same 2-2-3 seven-passenger layout of its Chrysler and GM competitors, XLT and Eddie Bauer-trim vehicles were offered with optional second-row bucket seats (a feature popularized from full-size conversion vans). Another option allowed both rear bench seats to fold down (making
14763-450: The third-row seats (and a later console on the engine cover), the vehicle could be specified with up to two cigarette lighters and six ashtrays. For 1992, the interior underwent a revision alongside the exterior. Coinciding with the addition of a driver-side airbag (and three-point seatbelts for all six outboard seats), the dashboard underwent a complete redesign. Both analog and digital instrument panels were replaced by more legible units;
14896-446: The time, the company had worked on its own "garageable van" project for a year, leading to its approval for development for 1979. While Chrysler would adopt the basic concept of the Ford Carousel prototype, in terms of its height and seat configuration, the resulting 1984 Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager would be very different vehicles from the Carousel in terms of layout and engineering. In 1974, Ford management ended development of
15029-410: The time, though not sharing commonality). During its production, the Aerostar was the only minivan sold in North America with coil springs at all four wheels. Through its production, the model line was fitted with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. For its 1986 launch, the Aerostar was introduced with two engines shared with the Ranger/Bronco II. A 100 hp 2.3 L inline-4 (also shared with
15162-408: The use of high-strength steel and other lightweight materials, including a magnesium clutch housing, aluminum transfer case (for four-wheel drive), and a magnesium clutch/brake pedal bracket. To further save weight, the design of the front suspension was computer-optimized, rendering the front stabilizer bar optional. Though narrower than the F-Series and other full-size competitors, the cargo bed of
15295-476: The vehicle could potentially lose all steering control and end up in an accident. According to the NHTSA action #PE10026, some Ford Windstar owners had their drive axle detach from the transmission. Ford is offering alternative transportation to owners if their vehicle is unsafe to drive. If the minivan can't be repaired, Ford will repurchase the vehicle. The 1999–2003 Ford Windstar received an "Acceptable" rating by
15428-409: The window glass, headlights, and grille. In a notable change, the turbodiesel engine option (projected to provide up to 40mpg), was dropped from the engine lineup before production. Introduced at the 1987 Frankfurt Auto Show , the HFX (High Feature Experimental) Aerostar Ghia was a prototype of future minivan design. Two running prototypes were built from the collaboration of Ford and Ghia; both used
15561-431: Was a completely different engine design. The Windstar was paired with an AX4S transaxle, which was prone to internal failure. The transmission suffered from cracked forward and reverse clutch pistons. These transmission failures were most susceptible with the 3.8L engine, as the transmission could not handle the extra torque and the extra vehicle weight. The Windstar was also plagued with various suspension woes. Due to
15694-488: Was constructed in 1989 by the Ford Truck Public Affairs office, using a V6 from a Ford Taurus SHO and a 5-speed transmission from a Mustang GT . After a ten-year production run, Ford introduced the second generation of the Ranger for the 1993 model year with much of its chassis carried over from the previous generation. Sharing no body panels with its predecessor, the redesigned Ranger shifted from
15827-454: Was discontinued, with the 3.0 L V6 becoming the sole engine offering (with the Aerostar becoming the first minivan offering only V6 engines). For 1990, coinciding with the introduction of the E-4WD option, a 160 hp 4.0 L V6 was introduced; the engine was paired with the all-wheel drive system and was an option on higher-trim rear-wheel drive vehicles. Sharing its transmissions with
15960-490: Was marketed in five trim levels: S , Ranger , XL , XLS , and XLT . Intended largely for fleet sales, the Ranger S (introduced in 1984 ) was offered with virtually no available options. While still largely a work truck, the Ranger XL offered color-keyed trim, floor mats, and chrome bumpers. The XLS was marketed as the sportiest version of the Ranger, offering bucket seats, blackout trim, and tape stripe packages (essentially
16093-542: Was not sold in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and other left-hand rule of road countries. The first generation Ford Windstar is codenamed WIN88, sharing the front-wheel drive DN5 platform with the first-generation Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable. Using a 120.7-inch wheelbase (nearly 15 inches longer than the Taurus), the Windstar replaced the integrated frame-rail design of the Aerostar with full unibody construction. The front suspension used MacPherson struts, while
16226-434: Was offered for the GL and LX, offering leather (LX) or cloth/vinyl (GL) seats, gold-trimmed wheels, and luggage rack, and a unique two-tone exterior and bodyside moldings. While adopting the front-wheel drive form factor similar to the Chrysler minivans, the Windstar adopted several design features from the Ford Aerostar and Mercury Villager, including rear-seat audio controls, rear air conditioning and middle-row bucket seats;
16359-502: Was produced on December 29, 2006. Ford Ranger (Americas) The Ford Ranger is a range of pickup trucks manufactured and marketed by Ford Motor Company in North and South America under the Ford Ranger nameplate. Introduced in early 1982 for the 1983 model year, the Ranger is currently in its fourth generation. Developed as a replacement for the Mazda -sourced Ford Courier ,
16492-447: Was provided, the system provided increased traction in adverse weather conditions without driver input. The E-4WD system used a Dana TC28 transfer case with a center differential (regulated by an electronically controlled electro-magnetic clutch); all four wheels received traction at all times. To accommodate the added weight and friction losses, the system was paired with the higher-torque 4.0L V6 and automatic transmission. Following
16625-452: Was released in March 1994 as a 1995 model, preceding the launch of the third-generation Chrysler minivans by over a year, enabling Ford to cut into Chrysler minivan sales significantly. While the competing model lines roughly benchmarked each other, the Windstar was sold only as an equivalent to the long-wheelbase "Grand" Chrysler vans, with Lincoln-Mercury selling the smaller, unrelated Mercury Villager (jointly developed with Nissan). From
16758-572: 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
16891-657: Was retired in North America as Ford concentrated on its full-size F-Series pickup trucks. For the 2019 model year, Ford introduced a fourth generation of the Ranger (after a seven-year hiatus). The first mid-size Ranger in North America, the model line is derived from the globally-marketed Ford Ranger (revised to fulfill North American design requirements). The first three generations of the Ranger were produced by Ford at its Louisville Assembly ( Louisville, Kentucky ), Edison Assembly ( Edison, New Jersey ), and Twin Cities Assembly ( Saint Paul, Minnesota ) facilities;
17024-606: Was sourced from Edison Assembly in Edison, New Jersey . For its entire production run until 2011, the Ranger was produced at the Twin Cities Assembly Plant in St Paul, Minnesota . The final 2012 Ranger produced on December 16, 2011, ended 86 years of production at Twin Cities Assembly as well as the production of all compact pickups in the United States. In 2008, Ford made its first plans to end production of
17157-495: Was susceptible to head gasket failure, as it was in its Taurus and Sable stablemates. However, the Windstar's problem was a cast iron block with aluminum heads, coupled with higher loads than the Taurus, the van being 700 pounds heavier. In response, Ford extended the warranty on the head gasket to 100,000 miles on most Windstars with this engine. The 3.0 L V6 Vulcan engine was not susceptible to head gasket failure, as it
17290-441: Was switched for a blue oval. The interior was given a redesign, including new door panels, new seats, and an all-new dashboard (introducing a glovebox). To improve ergonomics, the instrument panel was redesigned for improved legibility, with automatic transmission Rangers receiving a column-mounted gearshift; manual-transmission versions saw the removal of the key-release button from the steering column . The first-generation Ranger
17423-655: Was the most dependable minivan on the market in the JD Powers dependability survey at three years in service in the 2005 survey. The Windstar beat out the Toyota Sienna and the Honda Odyssey for these honors. In 1999, Ford began a shift in trim levels that would be seen in many of its American-market sedans through the 2000s. In place of the GL, the LX was the new base model, with the SE and SEL making their debut as
17556-466: Was the only engine for the 1988-1989 Aerostar. During the 1990 model year, Ford introduced an all-wheel drive system for the Aerostar, called E-4WD ( E lectronic 4-W heel D rive). Developed specifically for the model line, the E-4WD system was offered from 1990 to 1997 on XLT and Eddie Bauer trims. In contrast to the four-wheel drive systems in other Ford light trucks, E-4WD was not configured nor intended for off-road driving. While no low-range gearing
17689-488: Was updated for the first time, with the chrome grille replaced by a black-trim grille; bracketed towing mirrors were replaced by power-operated mirrors. For 1992, the Aerostar received its second (and most substantial) exterior update. The grille was changed slightly in color from 1989 to 1991, with the Ford Blue Oval relocated from the center to the top slot of the grille (similar to the Ford Explorer); Ford replaced
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