Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families seeking versatile, comfortable, and capable transportation
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Equinox, Pontiac Torrent, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Nissan Murano
Unique Selling Proposition:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, available All-Wheel Drive, distinctive styling
Design Philosophy:
Focus on practicality and passenger comfort, bridging the gap between traditional SUVs and minivans
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical and Electrical Systems, Bodywork, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures
Additional Coverage:
Component identification, wiring diagrams, specifications, torque values, exploded views
Estimated Pages:
Thousands (Software-based, comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (CD-ROM or Downloadable Digital Format)
Powertrain:
Engine (3.0L Duratec V6), Transmission (CVT - Continuously Variable Transmission), Drivetrain (AWD - All-Wheel Drive, FWD - Front-Wheel Drive)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front McPherson Strut, Rear Multi-Link), Steering (Hydraulic Power Steering), Brakes (Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, ABS, EBD)
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instruments, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, SRS (Airbag) System, Keyless Entry, Security System
Body And Interior:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, liftgate, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, body sealing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspection/replacement
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine component removal/installation/rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
OBD-II diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), circuit testing, system performance analysis, common fault identification and rectification
Special Procedures:
Wheel alignment, tire balancing, HVAC system evacuation and recharge, SRS system calibration, diagnostic tool usage
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures)
Engine Code:
MTX-75 (shared with other Ford models)
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2967cc)
Configuration:
V6 (90-degree bank angle)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 24 Valves (4 valves per cylinder)
Horsepower:
203 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
207 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Induction:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 (Octane Rating)
ECU Type:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Type:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon® V (or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C195-A)
Drive Modes:
Simulated gear shifts (in some configurations), Variable ratio for optimal efficiency
Configuration:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Five Stars (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
Five Stars (Front and Rear Seat Occupants)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, available side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, pretensioners, load limiters
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (subscription required).
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack for portable media players.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning standard, optional automatic climate control.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors standard.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions); severe conditions may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed, based on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (if equipped with iridium spark plugs).
Coolant Flush:
First at 105,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (using Ford Gold Coolant or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Consult owner's manual for specific intervals, typically around 100,000 miles for CVT fluid, or under severe conditions. This is a critical item for CVT longevity.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-20
Engine Oil Spec:
API Certified, ILSAC GF-4
Engine Coolant Type:
Ford Gold Coolant (or equivalent meeting WSS-M97B51-A1)
Cvt Reliability:
Early CVTs, including those in the Freestyle, were prone to issues if not maintained meticulously. Fluid changes are critical. Shuddering or loss of power can indicate problems.
Suspension Components:
Wear on struts, ball joints, and bushings can lead to noise and handling issues, especially on higher mileage vehicles.
Interior Rattles:
Some owners report various interior rattles and squeaks due to trim pieces and assembly.
Power Steering Pump:
Premature failure of the power steering pump has been reported by some owners.
