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Ford issues Aerostar recall
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March 18, 1999: 4:35 p.m. ET
Potential electrical problem prompts auto maker to check 887,000 minivans
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NEW YORK (CNNfn) - Ford Motor Co. announced a recall Thursday of nearly 900,000 Aerostar minivans to correct a possible power circuit default that may cause the vehicles to catch fire.
The Dearborn, Mich.-based auto maker said a small number of Aerostar vehicles contain a faulty accessory power circuit, which could short circuit and create the potential for engine overheating, smoke and fire.
In the same vehicle population, some owners will also be notified of the potential for their fuel pump electrical connection to short-circuit. The company said that condition could lead to loss of power, smoke and fire in the passenger compartment or vehicle underbody.
The recall comes just three days after the company agreed to pay federal regulators a record fine of $425,000 for failing to recall vehicles with problem ignition systems soon enough and not providing government investigators with complete information.
Although Ford (F) said no accidents or injuries have been attributed to either Aerostar condition thus far, company spokeswoman Karen Shaughnessy said there have been "reports that could be related to this condition that have involved fire."
Approximately 887,000 1992- to 1997-model year Aerostars are being recalled, the company said. Shaughnessy said only a small number ultimately would require repairs, which will be completed at no charge to the customer.
Ford's stock was up 1/2 to 57 7/8 in trading late Thursday afternoon.
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