1996 Ford Aerostar Owner's Manual - Page 105

Liftgate closing procedure 1. To make the liftgate swing downward, reach up and pull the lower edge of the liftgate (or the loop handle on the inner trim panel of vehicles with this option) and pull downward. When you have pulled down the liftgate enough so that you can reach the license plate light shield, push the shield down and forward to close the latch and liftgate. At this point, the latch is not locked. You can lock the liftgate latch by pushing down the lock button before you pull down and close the liftgate. You can also lock the liftgate latch by inserting your vehicle's door key and turning it clockwise after you have closed the liftgate, or by using the power door locks (if equipped). 2. 3. The liftgate area is only intended for cargo, not passengers. You can open and close the liftgate from outside the vehicle. It cannot be opened from inside the cargo area. 124