Target Audience:
Families seeking comfortable, versatile, and spacious transportation
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica/Voyager, Kia Sedona, Hyundai Entourage
Design Philosophy:
Modernized styling (compared to previous Windstar), increased interior volume, improved safety features
Powertrain Emphasis:
Focus on V6 engine performance and smoothness
Interior Flexibility:
Versatile seating arrangements, ample cargo space
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive mechanical and electrical repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, structural components, interior trim, suspension, steering, wheels, tires
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust system, fuel system
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, comfort/convenience controls, entertainment system, power accessories, body control module (BCM)
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, parking brake
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common faults, fault code interpretation
Estimated Pages:
Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Powertrain Systems:
Engine mechanical (including timing, valve train, lubrication, cooling), fuel injection, ignition, emission controls, exhaust, torque converter, automatic transmission (e.g., AX4N/AX4S), final drive, half-shafts
Chassis Systems:
Front and rear suspension (independent front, multi-link rear), power steering, braking system (including ABS), wheel hub assemblies
Body And Interior:
Body structural analysis, exterior panels, doors, hood, liftgate, glass, seals, interior trim panels, seats, airbags, restraints
Electrical And Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic connectors, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Integrated Wheel Speed Sensor (IWSS), anti-theft, lighting (interior and exterior), power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, horn, wipers/washers, infotainment system, climate control module
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, coolant flush, battery testing and replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine component overhaul (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), transmission diagnosis and repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, brake system bleeding and component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, interior component repair, exterior panel repair/replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Systematic troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, use of scan tools (OBD-II), electrical circuit testing, mechanical component testing
Special Tools And Jigs:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repairs or adjustments
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Includes specifications, tolerances, diagnostic procedures, and repair sequences.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Overdrive
Transmission Codes:
AX4N, AX4S (depending on engine and year)
Optional Transmission:
None (All were automatic)
Transmission Features:
Electronic shift control, overdrive gear for fuel efficiency
Transmission Fluid Type:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Length:
200.2 - 201.1 inches
Height:
68.4 - 68.5 inches
Passenger Volume:
156.4 cubic feet (approx.)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
26.3 cubic feet (approx.)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
88.2 cubic feet (approx.)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
141.1 cubic feet (approx.)
Curb Weight:
4,300 - 4,600 lbs (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
5,740 - 6,000 lbs (approx.)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for FWD models)
IIHS Crash Test Ratings:
Varied by year and test; frontal impacts generally rated 'Good' or 'Acceptable'
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available on some models
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, available side-impact airbags
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions
Audio Systems:
Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems, rear-seat entertainment options (DVD player).
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Rear Parking Aid:
Available rear parking sensors on select models.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Standard or optional, depending on trim level.
Power Sliding Doors:
Available on many models for convenience.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations based on oil viscosity and synthetic vs. conventional.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually, depending on environment.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Vulcan:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Duratec:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Iridium)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 50,000 - 100,000 miles, depending on usage. Frequent towing or severe use requires more frequent changes.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 50,000 - 100,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-20 (preferred for fuel economy and performance), SAE 5W-30 acceptable.
Engine Oil Specification:
API Service SN or SP, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6
Engine Coolant Type:
Ford Gold Coolant (or equivalent HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology)
Powertrain Issues:
Some reports of transmission solenoid issues, potential for intake manifold gasket leaks on certain Duratec engines, oil pan gasket leaks.
Suspension Issues:
Premature wear of ball joints and tie rod ends in some cases, especially with higher mileage vehicles.
Electrical Issues:
Intermittent issues with power sliding doors, dashboard warning lights, and power accessory failures have been reported.
HVAC Issues:
Blend door actuator failures leading to improper temperature control are a known concern.
Brake Issues:
Rotor warping and premature brake pad wear can occur.
Ford Minivan History:
Ford has a long history in the minivan segment, notably with the Aerostar and Windstar models.
Freestar Predecessor:
Replaced the Ford Windstar
Platform Sharing:
Shared the Ford D3 platform with other Ford/Mercury products like the Five Hundred, Freestyle, and Monterey.
Facelift Updates:
Received minor styling updates and powertrain revisions during its production run.
Production Years:
2004-2007
Manufacturing Location:
Oakville Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Discontinuation:
Discontinued after the 2007 model year, with Ford exiting the minivan market in North America.
Common Awards:
While the Freestar itself did not garner significant individual awards, its platform shared underpinnings with vehicles that received positive reviews for comfort and utility. The manual is essential for maintaining these aspects.
Safety Ratings Context:
NHTSA ratings varied by drivetrain (FWD generally better for rollover than AWD). The manual provides detailed safety system maintenance and repair procedures.
Certification Context:
Not applicable for a service manual itself, but the manual's accuracy reflects Ford's OEM specifications and procedures.