Ford to Recall 887,000 1992-97 Aerostars

Ford Motor Co. said it is recalling about 887,000 1992-97 model-year Aerostar minivans because the accessory power circuit may short-circuit and cause smoke or fire. The No. 2 U.S. auto maker also said that 29,000 1994-95 Aerostars in the same group have problems with the electrical connection at the fuel pump that could cause the vehicle to lose power or cause smoke or fire in the passenger compartment or underbody. Dearborn, Mich.-based Ford said there are no reports of accidents or injuries attributed to the problem and that owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail to have the repairs made at no charge. There have been 168 reports of problems with the accessory power circuit, including 55 reports of fire, and 40 reports of problems with the electrical connection at the fuel pump, including six reports of fire, a Ford spokeswoman said. Ford shares rose 94 cents to close at $58.63 on the New York Stock Exchange.