Vehicle Segment:
Full-size minivan
Target Audience:
Families requiring spacious and versatile transportation.
Key Competitors:
Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Kia Sedona.
Vehicle Highlights:
Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, optional all-wheel drive, available V6 engines.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the knowledge to perform accurate diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance, potentially saving time and money.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive workshop service and repair
Systems Included:
Engine, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD/AWD), Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body & Trim, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Emissions Control, Safety Systems (Airbags, ABS), Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 3000+ pages (depending on specific engine/drivetrain configurations)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Searchability:
Fully searchable PDF with hyperlinked table of contents for quick navigation.
Printability:
Printable pages for on-site workshop use.
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnosis and repair for Powertrain Control Module (PCM), ignition system, fuel injection system, sensors (MAF, O2, TPS, Crankshaft/Camshaft Position), actuators, and emission controls.
Transmission Repair:
Complete overhaul procedures for the 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 4F50N), including valve body diagnosis, clutch pack replacement, torque converter service, and electronic controls.
Drivetrain Service:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) system servicing, including CV axles, differential, transfer case (for AWD models), and driveshafts.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, sway bars), power steering system diagnosis and repair (pump, rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers), hydraulic system bleeding, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) component testing and diagnosis.
Electrical And Lighting:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse and relay identification, power distribution, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors).
HVAC System:
Air conditioning (AC) system service (refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser), heating system operation, climate control module diagnosis, blower motor and fan replacement.
Body And Interior:
Door panel removal, seat adjustment/replacement, dashboard disassembly, exterior trim replacement, glass replacement procedures.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, transmission fluid changes, belt inspections/replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, braking concerns, and HVAC malfunctions.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major components such as engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, radiators, A/C compressors, and power steering pumps.
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) code interpretation, live data analysis, actuator testing, sensor testing using multimeters and oscilloscopes.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls, including specifications for clearances, tolerances, and torque values.
Depth Of Information:
Extensive, covering from basic maintenance and routine servicing to complex diagnostics, component overhauls, and complete vehicle teardowns.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including wiring diagrams, component locations, and specific testing methods for electrical and mechanical systems.
Length:
Approx. 201.2 inches (5110 mm)
Width:
Approx. 78.5 inches (1994 mm)
Height:
Approx. 68.4 inches (1737 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 123.5 inches (3137 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 22.6 cubic feet (0.64 cubic meters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 92.4 cubic feet (2.62 cubic meters)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 142.1 cubic feet (4.02 cubic meters)
Curb Weight FWD:
Approx. 4400 - 4600 lbs (1996 - 2087 kg)
Curb Weight AWD:
Approx. 4500 - 4700 lbs (2041 - 2132 kg)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4-star (Driver), 4-star (Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
4-star (Front), 5-star (Rear)
IIHS Rollover Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models.
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Airbags:
Standard front-seat airbags. Optional side-curtain airbags for all three rows.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all seating positions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
3.9L V6: 100,000 miles (160,000 km); 4.2L V6: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (if equipped with Iridium plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months for normal service; 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months for severe service.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial fill: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years. Subsequent fills: Every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG, SH, SJ, SL rated, SAE 5W-20 (preferred) or 5W-30.
Engine Coolant Specification:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent meeting specification WSS-M97B44-D2.
Power Steering Fluid:
Ford Power Steering Fluid or an equivalent meeting specification ESW-M2C195-A.
Common Problems:
Transmission shudder or failure (especially 4F50N), front suspension wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), AC system leaks, rear shock absorber leaks, power sliding door malfunctions, catalytic converter failure.
Diagnostic Tips:
Transmission fluid level and condition are critical. Check for DTCs related to transmission solenoids or pressure sensors. Listen for clunks/rattles from suspension components.
Ford Minivan History:
Ford's entry into the minivan segment evolved from the Aerostar, with the Freestar being a significant redesign and rebranding.
Freestar Debut:
Introduced for the 2004 model year, replacing the Ford Windstar.
Design Basis:
Based on the updated W platform, sharing components with other Ford SUVs and minivans of the era.
Manufacturing Location:
Oakville Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.
Production End Year:
2007, succeeded by the Ford Taurus X (station wagon/crossover).