1986-1995 Ford Aerostar Tail Light: Solving the Rear Wiper Puzzle

Symptoms of a Failing Aerostar Tail Light

Failures in the tail light assembly can range from simple bulb issues to problems with the housing itself. Knowing the signs can help you pinpoint the problem quickly.

• Dim or Flickering Lights: If a light appears dimmer than the one on the other side or flickers intermittently, it often points to a failing bulb, a loose electrical connection, or corrosion in the bulb socket. On older vehicles like the Aerostar, grounding issues or a faulty headlight switch can also cause flickering.
• One or More Bulbs Are Out: The most common issue is a simple burned-out bulb. If a brake light, turn signal, or running light doesn't illuminate at all, the bulb is the first thing to check.
• Condensation or Water Inside the Lens: Seeing fog, water droplets, or a small puddle inside the tail light means the seal on the housing has failed. This moisture will quickly corrode the reflective surfaces and bulb sockets, leading to permanent damage and electrical shorts.
• Cracked or Hazy Lens: The plastic lens can become brittle with age, leading to cracks from minor impacts or stress. A hazy, clouded, or yellowed lens reduces the light output, making your van harder to see at night.
• Rapid Blinking Turn Signal (Hyperflash): If your turn signal blinks much faster than usual, it's typically an indicator that one of the turn signal bulbs (either front or rear) has burned out.

The Critical Compatibility Check: With or Without Rear Wiper

Before buying a replacement tail light for your Aerostar, you must determine if your van is equipped with a rear window wiper and washer. The tail light assemblies are different for models with and without this option.

The key difference is on the passenger (right) side. On models equipped with the rear wiper, the washer fluid reservoir is located in the body cavity directly behind the passenger-side tail light. This requires a tail light housing with a different shape and mounting configuration to accommodate the reservoir. While the driver's side may be the same across all models, they are typically sold in pairs or specified for a particular configuration.

Buying a Used 1986-1995 Aerostar Tail Light

A used OEM tail light is often a great choice, offering original factory fit and quality at a lower price than new parts. However, given the age of these vehicles, careful inspection is key.

What to Inspect on a Used Part:

• Lens Condition: Look for deep cracks, chips, or fractures that could let water in. Minor surface scratches are normal, but avoid anything that goes through the plastic.
• Check for Crazing: Inspect the lens closely for a network of fine, spiderweb-like cracks. This is a sign of aging plastic and, while it may not leak yet, it indicates the part is becoming brittle.
• Seal Integrity: Look for any signs of previous water intrusion, like a discolored or water-stained line on the inside of the housing.
• Mounting Points: The Aerostar tail light is held on by screws. Ensure all mounting tabs and the plastic bosses they screw into are intact and not cracked or broken.
• Bulb Sockets and Wiring: If the assembly includes bulb sockets, inspect them for any green or white corrosion, rust, or melted plastic. A clean socket is a good sign that the housing did not leak.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not issued any recalls specifically for the tail light assemblies on the 1986-1995 Ford Aerostar. However, this model series has been subject to numerous recalls for other issues, including some related to electrical systems that could cause a fire. While not directly related to the tail lights, it highlights the importance of maintaining the vehicle's overall electrical system in good condition.

Replacement Guide (DIY Difficulty: 1/5)

Replacing a tail light on a Ford Aerostar is one of the easiest repairs you can perform. It requires basic tools and can be done in about 15 minutes.

Tools Needed:

• Phillips Head Screwdriver

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove the Screws: Open the rear hatch. On the outside edge of the tail light lens, you will see the screws that hold the assembly to the body. Remove these screws.
2. Remove the Assembly: Gently pull the tail light assembly straight back, away from the vehicle. It may be slightly stuck due to its weather seal, so a gentle wiggle may be needed.
3. Disconnect Bulb Sockets: With the assembly in your hand, twist each bulb socket about a quarter-turn counter-clockwise and pull it out of the housing.
4. Install in Reverse: Transfer the bulbs and sockets to the new housing. Insert the sockets and twist them clockwise to lock them in. Position the new assembly against the body and reinstall the mounting screws. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the plastic.
5. Test All Functions: Before finishing, have a helper confirm that the running lights, brake lights, and turn signals all work correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)