One problem related to front suspension lower ball joint has been reported for the 1996 Ford Aerostar. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While driving 35 mph the vehicle made a popping sound and the sound went away. Driving at 55 to 60 mph the vehicle was shaking and the consumer pulled over due to the wheels virbating. When the consumer pulled over, she noticed smoke coming from the wheel, and discovered the problem within the lower control arm. Took vehicle to the dealer and they determined that the consumer ran something over, and the the right lower control was bent.