My brakes failed after an extended downhill drive--although not an unusual circumstance. In taking apart the disk brakes, my mechanic discovered that the calipers had become brittle (over time from heat) and they crumbled in his hands. The pads had worn down but still were within an acceptable thickness (but at the low end). The rotor was normal. The mechanic believes that there is a design flaw in these brakes resulting from a rotor that is too thin (normally) and as a result does not absorb heat well from the pads. He has observed the same problem on other Aerostars and has concluded that the brakes need to be check earlier than normal pad wear would indicate. He said that we were lucky that we did not end up in an accident.

- San Leandro, CA, USA

While consumer was backing out vehicle hit a steel pole. Within second vehicle suddenly accelerated in a foward position, while driver's foot remained on brake, vehicle hit the wall of warehouse. Dealer / manufacturer were not contacted at this time.

- Sykeville, MD, USA

On April 19, 1999, quality of Napa located at 1823 soscol ave, Napa, 94559, performed our 30,000 mile service which in our Ford maintenance schedule book includes inspection of disc brake system and drum brake system. On April 19th, our mileage was 34,712.5 and quality signed off on the maintenance schedule for both the 30,000 & 35,000 mile service. On or about May 17th, 1999 our brakes failed at 35,597 miles, and caused us to take our van to Ford for troubleshooting. Ford charged us over $500 to replace the brakes. Our complaint is with quality, they signed our book recognizing part of servicing on 4/19 was brake inspection and didn't inform us of our brakes being in need of replacement at that time. Thus resulting in brake failure and further damage to the brake system causing us to pay in excess of $500 in repairs. Please contact me with regard to this complaint. I wish to further pursue this complaint as well. Thank-you, kathleen.

- Napa, CA, USA

Upon applying force to the brake pedal there is no response from the brakes, causing extended stopping distance, resulting in a minor collision. Consumer has contacted the dealer.

- Santa Clarita, CA, USA

In an accident at 40-45mph, 12:00 position, driver's side airbag did not deploy. ABS braking system had rear wheel lockup with 100 feet of skid marks.

- Albuquerque, NM, USA