The problem
Vehicle description: all wheel drive passenger minivans. These vehicles can develop powertrain bending resonance or transfer case output shaft bushing displacement. The powertrain bending resonance or the output shaft bushing displacement can result in structural failure of the transmission and/or transfer case. Fluid explusion, driveshaft separation or loss of vehicle drive can result.
The risk
This condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, and, if the expelled fluid contacts the exhaust system, a vehicle fire could occur.
The fix
Dealers will install a new transfer case rear output shaft bushing and an aluminum driveshaft will be installed.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 97V-204 (97V204000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Power train › Transfer case (4-wheel drive) |
| Report date | November 13, 1997 |
| Owners notified | February 16, 1998 |
| Vehicles affected | 75,000 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 97V-204 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a new transfer case rear output shaft bushing and an aluminum driveshaft will be installed.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 75,000 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.