Faults:
Initially received van with inner tie rod, front shocks, and rotors bad. Replaced myself at about $175 for parts. A/C was not working when I took ownership. Decided to not repair A/C.
Alternator seized around 200,000 miles (alternators are expensive when broken down on road).
Front passenger side upper control arm bushing disintegrated (and was really noticed) around 205,000 miles. Ford wanted about $800 to replace control arm and perform an alignment. I went to local part store, bought bushings (about $4 X 2) and paid a guy to press the bushings after I removed the control arm. Repair required alignment.
Around 228,000 miles, the transmission started slipping, probably due to failure on my part to maintain fluid quality. This repair cost about $1,600.
General Comments:
I am very upset that Ford discontinued the manufacturing of this model. I would definitely replace this (if mine ever dies to the point that repair is outrageously expensive) with a newer model if they were still produced.
The interior is simplistic in my model. Very easy to locate all controls.
Wish the model had a rear ventilation system. With van fully loaded (7 passengers), the climate in the back can get rather warm.
Seats are not easy to remove without two people. Have used it to move my family and another friend's family and the van holds quite a bit of cargo with the seats out. Just really hate the effort for removing the seats.
The engine compartment is cramped, so I'm very happy that I've not had to do any major engine work.
Parts for this vehicle are readily available (both OE and after market).