Ford Freestyle problems
The Ford Freestyle is a crossover utility vehicle that was sold by Ford from 2005 to 2009. Largely marketed as the successor to the Ford Taurus station wagon, the Freestyle was the CUV counterpart of the Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego four-door sedans. Sharing the Ford D3 platform with the Five Hundred and Montego, the Freestyle was produced with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations and six- or seven-passenger seating.
Following the return of the Ford Taurus for the 2008 model year, the Freestyle underwent a mid-cycle revision and was renamed the Ford Taurus X, marketed in the United States and Canada, as well as South Korea and the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam. Following the 2009 model year, the Taurus X was withdrawn. From the 2009 model year, the larger Ford Flex has served as the three-row Ford CUV/wagon.
From 2005 to 2009, the Freestyle/Taurus X was assembled at Chicago Assembly (Chicago, Illinois); the final vehicle was produced on February 27, 2009.
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Ford Freestyle model years
Common Ford Freestyle problems
The Ford Freestyle has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to its transmission, brakes, and engine.
- Rear Brakes Wear Out Prematurely
Another common problem reported by Ford Freestyle owners is that the rear brakes wear out prematurely. This issue is most prevalent in the 2005 model year, with 38 complaints. The average cost to fix this problem is $4,600, and it typically occurs at an average mileage of 105,000 miles. This issue can lead to a decrease in braking performance and safety, requiring frequent and expensive repairs.
- Lurching and Surging
The 2005 Ford Freestyle has also been reported to have issues with lurching and surging, with 27 complaints. This issue can make the car feel unstable and unpredictable, which can be dangerous, especially at high speeds. It can also lead to increased fuel consumption and decreased overall performance.
- Engine Problems
The Ford Freestyle has also been reported to have engine problems, with a total of 103 complaints across different model years. These issues can result in decreased performance, increased fuel consumption, and costly repairs. Some common engine problems reported by Ford Freestyle owners include engine stalling, misfiring, and difficulty starting.
- HVAC Problems
The Ford Freestyle has also been reported to have issues with its heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, with a total of 36 complaints across different model years. These issues can result in decreased comfort and increased fuel consumption, as the HVAC system can affect the car's overall performance.
- Electrical Problems
The Ford Freestyle has also been reported to have electrical problems, with a total of 25 complaints across different model years. These issues can result in decreased performance, increased fuel consumption, and costly repairs. Some common electrical problems reported by Ford Freestyle owners include malfunctioning lights, faulty sensors, and difficulty starting the car.
In conclusion, the Ford Freestyle has several common problems, primarily related to its transmission, brakes, and engine. These issues can result in decreased performance, increased fuel consumption, and costly repairs. It is essential for Ford Freestyle owners to be aware of these common problems and take preventative measures to avoid them. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address these issues before they become severe and costly.
How reliable is a Ford Freestyle?
As mentioned previously, the Ford Freestyle is an incredibly reliable vehicle that's built to withstand collisions. Despite this, it's not invincible, and its parts are just as susceptible to damage and degradation as any other vehicle's.
What is the life expectancy of a Ford Freestyle?
With careful driving and good care you may get to 350,000 miles, but be prepared for that transmission crapping out unexpectedly. If you are thinking that by trading it in you are cutting your losses, I think at 200K miles you are too late. IF the car drives fine, just drive it until something major brakes.
What problems does the 2007 Ford Freestyle have?
Top 2007 Ford Freestyle Problems
- Wrench Light, Service Engine Soon Light, Possible Poor Throttle Response. ...
- Rear Brakes Wear Out Abnormally Fast. ...
- Transmission Shifter is Hard To Move. ...
- Blower Motor Only Works on High. ...
- Coolant Leakage from Heater Core, Possible Leakage onto Passenger Side Foot Well.
Is the 2006 Ford Freestyle a good vehicle?
The 2006 Ford Freestyle earned a perfect five stars in all frontal- and side-impact crash tests conducted by the NHTSA. In IIHS frontal offset testing, the Freestyle got a rating of "Good," the highest possible.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Freestyle years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Freestyle cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Freestyle model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Freestyle model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Freestyle years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Freestyle car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Freestyle , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Engine problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Freestyle vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Freestyle model years
A total of 101 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Freestyle model years
There were a total of 14 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Freestyle model years
There were a total of 37 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 3657 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Freestyle . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Freestyle vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Freestyle 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 1FMDK02195G
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestyle. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for routine maintenance however, the contact was informed that the motor mount torque strap needed to be replaced. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the motor mounts had been replaced four times. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
Ford Freestyle 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-02
- VIN: 1FMDK04125G
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestyle. The contact stated that while at a stop, the vehicle lunged forward. While starting the vehicle, the vehicle revved high. While driving at high speeds, the vehicle decelerated. The contact stated that several times, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who cleaned and replaced the throttle body. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Ford Freestyle 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-21
- VIN: 1FMZK05127G
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Under carriage is completely rotten floor boards ,shock mounts, rear frame. Garage on lunenburg st.in Fitchburg,MA said that it was so rotten that he couldn't find a safe spot to put the car on the lift to do exhaust work. Put in a complaint in Sept 2023 with NHTSA ID number 11544728. I explained to them that I had contacted Ford Motor Co. and Ford didn't want to hear it. This car is problematic.Transmission does not shift properly. This vehicle never had a recall. There is dozens of consumer complaints. This vehicle is a hazard on the road and is very expensive to repair. Under carriage is unrepairable making this vehicle junk.
Ford Freestyle 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-27
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-27
- VIN: 1FMZK01105G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Doors will not close in cold weather. This is a safety issue that was not resolved with prior recall.
Ford Freestyle 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-15
- VIN: 1FMZK05127G
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Ford Freestyle. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the transmission failed to shift properly. The contact stated that the transmission warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the floorboard, undercarriage, and shock mounts were rusted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was unknown.
Ford Freestyle 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-24
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-24
- VIN: 1FMDK02135G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY
- Summary: Driving my 2005 Ford Freestyle today when I suddenly heard a loud explosion or crash sound overhead. At first I thought something had fallen from the sky and crashed into the top of our vehicle. I immediately slowed down and pulled the car off the side of the road. My husband was a passenger in the vehicle. He carefully got out of the vehicle and looked on top of and around the vehicle. That is when we discovered that the glass in the sunroof had literally exploded and blown out of the vehicle. The track was still in place and operating normally. The glass was completely blown out of the vehicle. Because the Ford Freestyle was only in production for 3 years (I believe), there probably are not many still in use. Thus, there are probably not many Ford Freestyle owners having or reporting this problem. Besides being scared, the potential for being hit by the exploding glass and suffering substantial injuries to our heads, eyes, face, shoulders, bodies, could have been tremendous, if not deadly. I reported the incident to Ford Motor Company. The vehicle has not been inspected yet by manufacturer, police, insurance, or others. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the sunroof glass failure.
Ford Freestyle 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-02
- VIN: 1FMZK04146G
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Car struggles to change gears. ABS, ENGINE, and THROTTLE warning lights on. Rough idle, car does not accelerate when shifted into drive.
Ford Freestyle 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-13
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-27
- VIN: 1FMDK02187G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I had an oil change for vehicle. Service technician listed on report of vehicle that the subframe has several holes in it and a long crack along the seam . It was serviced by the facility that does my servicing so I believe that qualifies as a dealer. I transport four children back and forth to school and am very concerned about the vehicle “ falling apart!” I understand that the Taurus and the Freestar have the same subframe and those have been recalled. I would think that the Freestyle should be recalled also. There were no warning lights or messages related to this problem. I have now reported this and am asking you to take action to repair this problem. Thank you!
Ford Freestyle 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-08
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-08
- VIN: 1FMZK02115G
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Says transmission data error check engine and trac control all display and only allow me to drive 20-35 MPH some time I can turn the car off and back on and the codes will shut off but they come back on in the middle of the highway what usually takes me 30 minutes takes me an hour and a half to get to some times 2 hours I can't run my AC cuz that over does my alternator and heats my car I've only had it a year and it's been giving me problems 5 months after getting it I have kids and it gets rough going slow in the heat and hoping if I press to much on the gas please help I am broke and have nothing but this car left and I've spent $2000 for people to tell me nothing is wrong with it
Ford Freestyle 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-17
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-27
- VIN: 1fmzk02136g
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Took the vehicle in to local Ford for 120000 mile service and was informed the subframe was rusted and starting to separate. The part is no longer available and maybe they could find a used one as they have had to do in other cases. Not sure why just the front subframe is bad and no other part of the frame structure also the car has had rustproofing done on it. Reading on the internet this seems to be a common problem with these subframes.
Ford Freestyle 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-27
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-27
- VIN: 1FMDK06166G
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving down the road and my car just stopped like it went into Neutral but it was in drive the car starts up but when I’m Drive doesn’t go anywhere
Ford Freestyle 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-23
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-24
- VIN: 1fmdk03147g
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Front crossmember/subframe that supports the motor and transmission as well as connects controls arms for both front wheels rusted out almost causing an accident due to loss of vehicle control.
Ford Freestyle 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-28
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-03
- VIN: 1FMDK05156G
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Ford Freestyle. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the rear driver’s and passenger’s side doors would not close securely. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer to be inspected however, the local dealer was contacted by phone and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in a recall. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 06V383000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Ford Freestyle 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-17
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-21
- VIN: 1FMZK01116G
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Ford Freestyle. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently stalled with the battery, oil pressure, and check engine warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer but was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was informed of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 210,000.
Ford Freestyle 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-28
- Date Complaint: 2021-12-28
- VIN: 1fmzk06147g
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Ford Freestyle. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH or above, the vehicle would suddenly go into limp mode and fail to accelerate. There was a warning light that displayed a wrench however, the contact did not know what was indicated specifically. The contact had not taken the vehicle to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact stated that after researching the cause of the failure he became aware that the transmission was faulty. Additionally, that type of transmission was discontinued by the manufacturer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.
Recalls Ford Freestyle
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the Ford Freestyle.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Freestyle 2005
- Report Received Date: 2006-10-05
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE FOLLOWING STATES: ALASKA, COLORADO, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IDAHO, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, MONTANA, NEBRASKA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, NORTH DAKOTA, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, SOUTH DAKOTA, UTAH, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND WYOMING. THE SIDE DOOR LATCH MECHANISMS MAY EXPERIENCE WATER INTRUSION ALLOWING THE LATCH MECHANISM TO FREEZE IN COLD WEATHER.
- Consequence: AS A RESULT, THE DOOR LATCH PAWL MAY NOT RETURN TO THE LATCH POSITION WHEN THE DOOR IS CLOSED, AND THE DOOR COULD OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS MOVING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SHIELD OVER THE FRONT LATCHES; SEAL A DRAIN HOLE IN THE REAR WINDOW TRIM MOLDING ON THE FREESTYLE REAR SIDE DOORS; AND APPLY GREASE TO ALL FRONT AND REAR SIDE-DOOR LATCH MECHANISMS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 8, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- Model: Ford Freestyle 2006
- Report Received Date: 2006-10-05
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE FOLLOWING STATES: ALASKA, COLORADO, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IDAHO, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, MONTANA, NEBRASKA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, NORTH DAKOTA, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, SOUTH DAKOTA, UTAH, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND WYOMING. THE SIDE DOOR LATCH MECHANISMS MAY EXPERIENCE WATER INTRUSION ALLOWING THE LATCH MECHANISM TO FREEZE IN COLD WEATHER.
- Consequence: AS A RESULT, THE DOOR LATCH PAWL MAY NOT RETURN TO THE LATCH POSITION WHEN THE DOOR IS CLOSED, AND THE DOOR COULD OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS MOVING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SHIELD OVER THE FRONT LATCHES; SEAL A DRAIN HOLE IN THE REAR WINDOW TRIM MOLDING ON THE FREESTYLE REAR SIDE DOORS; AND APPLY GREASE TO ALL FRONT AND REAR SIDE-DOOR LATCH MECHANISMS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 8, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- Model: Ford Freestyle 2005
- Report Received Date: 2005-11-09
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE STRAPS THAT SECURE THE FUEL TANK TO THE VEHICLE BODY MAY BREAK, CAUSING THE FUEL TANK AND FUEL TANK HEAT SHIELD TO DROP ON THE DRIVESHAFT (ALL WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES) OR EXHAUST SYSTEM (FRONT WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES).
- Consequence: IF THIS HAPPENS, DRIVERS MAY NOTICE A NOISE OR A FUEL LEAK. A FUEL LEAK IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH FUEL TANK STRAPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 1, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Latest negative Ford Freestyle car reviews
Latest positive Ford Freestyle car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2006
Hi there! I'm one of those people who usually go for Honda cars, but I recently discovered a LOADED Freestyle that had everything I was looking for at a great price. It has 3rd row seating, a DVD player, leather seats, and more, without having to buy a large SUV or minivan. We absolutely love this vehicle! The only downside is that the roof rails are not designed to hold anything, they are just there for looks. Unfortunately, this means that we can't use a roof luggage/cargo carrier. Overall, we're really happy with our purchase!
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Vehicle year: 2005
This car has been one of the best purchases I have ever made. I have taken many trips with it and have never been stranded. I purchased the car brand new and only had to replace a $230 part when the gear shifter began getting stiff and did not want to engage in gears. Last summer (2019), the A/C compressor needed to be replaced, but overall, we have only spent $3,300 on mechanical issues in the 15 years we've owned the car. I really wish Ford had not cut this model. Update: As of 2020, the car continues to run strong with no mechanical issues. It is very comfortable to drive and ride in. This has been another A++ purchase from Ford.
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Vehicle year: 2005
Hello! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're sorry to hear that you've had some issues with your recently purchased Freestyle. We understand that it can be frustrating to have to take your car to the shop multiple times, especially right after buying it. However, we're glad to hear that you're still enjoying the style and comfort of the Freestyle. We hope that the current issue with the torque converter gets resolved soon and that you can get back to enjoying your car. Thank you again for sharing your feedback with us!
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Vehicle year: 2007
After 4 years, I am still very satisfied with my Freestyle. It has been a reliable car with no major repairs needed except for the brakes, which were very reasonable. It's roomy enough for my family of 6 and great for road trips. I don't mind the 'low power' issues, and it actually performs better than most when accelerating uphill. The only things that bother me are the road noise and the fact that the rear lift gate doesn't close automatically.
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Vehicle year: 2007
I'm so glad you're considering a minivan! This one is a great choice if you're looking for something that's both affordable and stylish. Plus, it gets fantastic gas mileage - up to 18 mpg in the city! If you want a vehicle that combines the best features of a minivan and an SUV, this is definitely the one for you.
Are you having problems with your Ford Freestyle?
Javon Jaskolski 2025-11-11
Vehicle year: 2007
In the past 1 1/2 years of owning this car, it has undergone major repairs including a transmission overhaul, replacement of all brakes, traction, water pump, all 4 tires, seat heaters, seat latches, and two lines replaced for leaks. The car has spent over 40 days in the shop. Despite these challenges, I am confident in the car's ability to perform well on the road.
Anastacio Considine 2025-11-02
Vehicle year: 2006
Our 2006 Freestyle had 65,000 miles on it when the transmission unexpectedly failed. We contacted the dealer and were informed that the transmission was no longer in production, and a rebuilt one would cost over $7,000. After researching other options, we found that other places were charging similar prices or were unwilling to attempt the repair. We then reached out to Ford, who offered to cover $3,000 of the repair cost. Although the repair was still costly for a car with low mileage, we appreciated Ford's assistance and the transmission was warrantied for another 50,000 miles. Ultimately, we decided to sell the car a few months later due to personal concerns.
Willy Wisozk 2025-10-21
Vehicle year: 2005
I purchased this car from an auction 6 months ago. While the Freestyle has a smooth ride, I have found that it is not very kid-friendly and can get dirty easily. Unfortunately, I have experienced some transmission problems since then. I took it to a transmission mechanic who informed me that he had just replaced one 6 months earlier and the lowest transmission he found was 3k used, while a new one is 6k. I reached out to Ford regarding this issue, as I am driving a Ford and not a Lexus. While I would have preferred not to have to spend 3 or 6k on a new transmission, I understand that these things can happen with any car. I received a response from Dan at Ford who expressed his regret for my troubles and wished me good luck. While I am disappointed with the situation, I appreciate Ford's response and hope to find a solution soon. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Karley Huels 2025-10-20
Vehicle year: 2007
The Freestyle might be suitable for places like Southern California where the weather is mostly between 65-75 degrees and there is no extreme weather. However, in rain, it hydroplanes badly and in snow, it is not reliable. I have driven several 2WD Fords and they were all good, if not great, in snow. Unfortunately, this one spent an awful lot of time in the ditch. Despite this, it was not purchased as a pulling vehicle and was rarely asked to do so. The acceleration sounds impressive when you hit the gas, but then when you look at the speedometer, it is not so impressive. The pulling power was non-existent. We tried pulling a medium-sized trailer and it really struggled. The braking was not good either, it took longer to stop and the ABS was not like any other I have experienced before or since. We went through tires like crazy despite buying a mid-range tire. We tried different brands, but the result was always the same - flats and bulges at a rate of more than 4x our Ranger or our F150, both of which were more than 10 years older than the Freestyle and all driving the same conditions. We eventually had to buy high-end tires and then at least when they went, they were pro-rated. A lot of the instrumentation was fairly consistent with other Fords except for the hazards. They were down in the middle of the center column just in front of the gear shifter and they were forever becoming engaged. We do at least one trip annually of 10+ hours one way and I felt the seats were uncomfortable after only a couple of hours driving. I know this is largely a part of having leather seats, but in summer they would burn you and in winter you'd freeze your butt off. I spent about 10 months of the year having to sit on 'something' because the seats were unbearable.The flat being inside under the cargo area was a major inconvenience, especially when we needed to change a tire, which was not an uncommon occurrence. This was particularly problematic since we often travel with our large dogs and gear for dog shows. Unfortunately, we had a number of major repairs on it in a short period of time, including the heat going out over a year ago and a blown head gasket about 6 months ago. While it had fairly high miles on it, the last 30 or 40K were a struggle and our other Fords have performed much better. However, the car did have some redeeming qualities, such as the impressive amount of passenger and cargo room, the rear A/C, and the fuel economy. Additionally, the car was very safe to drive due to the lack of blind spots. The door keypad was also very convenient, and the seats folded down flat, making it easy to haul gear to dog shows or make quick runs to the home improvement store. We have since replaced it with our second Explorer, which we are very happy with.
Okey Blanda 2025-10-18
Vehicle year: 2006
I purchased the car used from the original owner who had taken great care of it. Unfortunately, after about 5 months, it started to lunge in reverse and eventually made a horrid sound, making it difficult to drive. The required part is no longer available and the mechanic is hesitant to purchase a used or reconditioned transmission due to the chronic issues with these cars. As a result, Ford and their service department will be replacing the transmission for $6000, which is more than half of what we still owe on the car. It's been a frustrating experience, but I'm hopeful that the new transmission will solve the issue.