I bought a used 1996 Ford Aerostar AWD van from a used car dealer about 10 months ago. I had some problems with the van immediately but the dealer declined responsibility. Today I have learned that the transfer case in the van needs, minimally, repair or total replacement. I have already replaced a ball joint for $320, which the used car dealer said he had checked and there was no problem. We are retirees without a huge income and so we decided to investigate whether Ford was in some way responsible. We learned that a recall for transfer cases was issued in 1998 so my wife called Ford, where she was, of course, told that our vehicle was not involved in the recall. I want to know how I can learn if this is true or whether I can make Ford responsible for this major malfunction. They say they are not in any way responsible!!!! over the years, I have owned many, many vehicles and have never had a transmission problem before. Because of the transfer case, my front tires are bald and I need two tie rod ends after the transfer case repair. My vehicle will not pass inspection and I do not know how I will pay for all of these repairs. I also still have two years' car payments left!!!

- Courtdale, PA, USA