Market Position:
The 2007 Ford Freestyle was positioned as a versatile crossover vehicle, offering a blend of minivan practicality and SUV-like styling, targeting families and individuals seeking a spacious and comfortable ride.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Chevrolet Equinox, Pontiac Torrent, Saturn Vue, and larger sedans and minivans, offering a unique three-row seating option in its class.
Key Features:
Available all-wheel drive (AWD), spacious interior with optional third-row seating, comfortable ride quality, and a focus on family utility.
Engine Systems:
3.0L Duratec V6 (RFC), Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, engine electrical, diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Systems:
CVT Automatic Transmission (CF110), Removal, installation, overhaul, torque converter, valve body, solenoids, fluid specifications, diagnostic procedures.
Chassis Systems:
Braking system (ABS, EBD, RWD), Steering system (power steering), Suspension system (front struts, rear independent suspension), Wheel alignment specifications, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Antilock Braking System (ABS) module, body electrical, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body Systems:
Body panels, doors, hood, liftgate, interior trim, seating, HVAC system, climate control, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), safety restraints (airbags, seat belts).
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, coolant flush and fill, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid service, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (alternator, starter, water pump, thermostat), brake pad and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (struts, control arms), steering rack replacement, exhaust system repair, sensor replacement, module testing and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms, interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system troubleshooting, mechanical system troubleshooting, intermittent fault diagnosis.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive; covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, component-level repair, and system overhauls. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, wiring diagrams, and service bulletins.
NHTSA Front Side Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Side Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5 Stars
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
Standard (On AWD models, often integrated with stability control)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional front side-impact airbags, optional side-curtain airbags for all rows.
Seatbelts:
3-point safety belts in all seating positions, front seat belt pretensioners, load limiters.
Infotainment System:
Ford's Audiophile or Shaker sound systems were optional, offering premium audio. Standard units featured AM/FM radio with CD player. Optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio available.
Driver Assistance Features:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). Optional Traction Control and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) were available, particularly on AWD models.
Connectivity Options:
Optional SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system was available on later production models, though more common in 2008+ Ford vehicles. Auxiliary input jack for audio devices was often standard.
Oil Change Interval:
5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) for normal driving; 7,500 miles or 12 months for severe driving conditions (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace at every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles; replace as needed. Typically recommended every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles; replace as needed. Typically recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (typically Iridium-tipped spark plugs).
Coolant Flush And Fill:
Every 100,000 miles or 5 years (using Ford-specified coolant).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Inspect every 30,000 miles; service typically recommended every 100,000 miles or as per severe duty schedule.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, meeting Ford WSS-M2C185-A specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Motorcraft® Gold Premium Engine Coolant (or equivalent meeting Ford WSS-M97B51-A1 specification).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Motorcraft® Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent meeting Ford specification).
Brake Fluid Type:
SAE J1703 or FMVSS 116 DOT 3.
Known Issues Common:
CVT transmission shudder or failure, premature wear of front suspension components (struts, control arms), potential for coolant leaks from intake manifold or heater hoses, occasional electrical issues related to body control modules or sensors.
Cvtf Replacement Cost:
CVT transmission replacements can be costly, emphasizing the importance of proper fluid maintenance.
Brand Heritage:
Ford Motor Company, founded in 1903, is one of the oldest and largest automakers in the world, known for innovation and mass production, including the Model T and popular truck lines.
Model Evolution:
The Ford Freestyle was introduced for the 2005 model year as a 2005 model, serving as Ford's initial entry into the modern crossover SUV segment with a unibody construction and car-like driving dynamics. It was built on Ford's P2 platform, shared with the Ford Five Hundred sedan and Mercury Montego. For 2008, it was replaced by the Ford Taurus X, which continued the concept with updated styling and powertrains.
Production Years:
2005-2007
Assembly Location:
Oakville, Ontario, Canada