2005 Ford Freestar
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Ford › Freestar › 2005
These records cover every 2005 Ford Freestar. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
4 recalls name the 2005 Ford Freestar. Newest first.
Ford is recalling certain model year 2004-2007 Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles manufactured from March 24, 2003, through November 7, 2006, equipped with a third row seat and originally sold in, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event that the vehicle is crashed into from the rear, an unlatched seat may increase the risk of personal injury.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install new third row seat latch striker mounting brackets, free of charge. The recall began on March 28, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.
Ford IS recalling certain model year 2004 and 2005 ford freestar and mercury monterey vehicles. the torque converter output shaft may fail.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition results in a sudden loss of motive power with no warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the torque converter free of charge. the safety recall began on august 9, 2012. owners may contact the ford motor company customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.
Certain aftermarket fuel filters sold under the purolator brand name, p/n f65277, shipped from january 16 through june 2, 2006, for use on the above listed passenger vehicles. due to incorrect design, the quick connectors may not fully seat with the tube interface, even though the person making the connection may believe that the quick connector IS fully…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Failure of this connection could lead to fuel spillage and, in the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Remedy
Ufi will notify owners and replace the filters free of charge. the recall began on august 4, 2006. owners may contact ufi filters USA at 800-230-5876.
On certain vans equipped with the power liftgate option, the power liftgate motor automatically disengages after the liftgate IS powered open.
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a liftgate strut malfunction, the liftgate can fall freely with no prior warning. Anyone standing beneath the liftgate may be injured if the liftgate falls.
Remedy
Dealers will reprogram the power liftgate module to reduce the likelihood that the liftgate could fall free of charge. the recall began on march 15, 2006. owners may contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Owner complaints
886 complaints8 involved a crash2 involved a fire18 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Power train
When I was driving my van was loosing power even when I was pushing the gas I had to pull over before a car was about to hit me. I look it up online it had a recall in 2013 but I bought van from someone last year and I called the ford place about the recall and they said couldn’t do it Mac hik in Jackson
- Seats
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated that the third-row seat attachments were rusted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V081000 (Seats); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was not…
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated that the third-row seat attachments were rusted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V081000 (Seats); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 317,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission seized and remained in neutral. The vehicle jerked and shortly returned to normal functionality; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the gear shifter light was…
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission seized and remained in neutral. The vehicle jerked and shortly returned to normal functionality; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the gear shifter light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure became a recurring failure, and the contact parked the vehicle, and the vehicle was no longer driven. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V006000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the vehicle stopped in the middle of the street, however the engine was still on.…
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the vehicle stopped in the middle of the street, however the engine was still on. The contact stated that the gear shifter did not function as intended. The contact stated that the gear shifter did not shift. The contact was able to coast the vehicle to the shoulder of the road. The contact and her son pushed the vehicle to the nearest parking lot. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Power train
I was driving and my transmission stopped working left me stranded
- Power train
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH and releasing the accelerator pedal, the contact noticed an abnormal clucking sound. The contact stated that upon depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact pulled to the side of the…
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH and releasing the accelerator pedal, the contact noticed an abnormal clucking sound. The contact stated that upon depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact pulled to the side of the road. The contact stated he was able to continue driving; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that upon depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle only responded when the RPMs were high, and the vehicle failed to exceed 30 MPH. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the torque converter output shaft had failed. The mechanic determined that the torque converter and the output shaft needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V006000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist because the vehicle was previously repaired under the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 350,000.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated that upon selling the vehicle, she allowed another individual to test drive the vehicle; however, as the contact was driving on an incline, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the flex shaft…
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated that upon selling the vehicle, she allowed another individual to test drive the vehicle; however, as the contact was driving on an incline, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the flex shaft had failed. The contact then stated that upon research, she became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V00600 (Power Train). The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that she received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V081000 (Seats). The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the contact was informed that due to the condition of the vehicle the recall repair could not be performed. The contact was concerned that when the vehicle was taken to the dealer, the VIN was entered and displayed a different color. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
- Electrical system · Seats · Structure › Body
The rear wheel well has rusted on both sides and completely rusted out a large hole (approx. 1 ft diameter area visibly effected) in the the body of the van. The rusted out section is where the back seat is anchored to the frame, so the rust has cause the seat to no longer be securely anchored to…
The rear wheel well has rusted on both sides and completely rusted out a large hole (approx. 1 ft diameter area visibly effected) in the the body of the van. The rusted out section is where the back seat is anchored to the frame, so the rust has cause the seat to no longer be securely anchored to the car. The hole has also caused electrical wires to get wet when water gets into the van and intermittently and unpredictably causing failure of electrical features, including headlights and blinkers, while driving.
- Power train
Driving down highway at 60 mph lost all power basically coasted to side of road. Looks like torque converter and pump shaft splines stripped out. Shows there was a recall but none listed for this vin number. This is a huge safety concern and Ford should have to repair.
- Power train
I was having issues with my car not able to really move so I had a mechanic to come to me to inspect it and he stated it was my torque converter someone on it in it near it.. That my issue.. So I was calling about the recall on it and it stated that it was already fixed in 2012 on recall. And I'm a…
I was having issues with my car not able to really move so I had a mechanic to come to me to inspect it and he stated it was my torque converter someone on it in it near it.. That my issue.. So I was calling about the recall on it and it stated that it was already fixed in 2012 on recall. And I'm a new owner purchased in 2018.. I'm a Ford girl.. So from the Taurus 500 and freestar never had of it needed a van have grandkids and now out my four year with it no problem with til now and by it has been replaced before I'm not able to get help with fixing it .. That my only car now I'm now disabled on fixed income and can't afford to buy a new transmission.. I'm asking if u could assist me with the same issue happening twice with vehicle with two different owner.. Thanks for your assistance and help
- Power train
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate properly without warning. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to her residence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the mechanic stated that the vehicle had…
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate properly without warning. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to her residence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the mechanic stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V006000 (Power Train). The dealer was contacted and stated that the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 238,000.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, he noted that a "sprocket" warning symbol had illuminated. The contact exited the freeway and stopped at a traffic light. As he depressed the accelerator to go forward the vehicle would not move however…
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, he noted that a "sprocket" warning symbol had illuminated. The contact exited the freeway and stopped at a traffic light. As he depressed the accelerator to go forward the vehicle would not move however, the engine was running. The contact stated that he placed the shift lever in neutral then drive and reverse and the vehicle would not move in any direction. The contact had the vehicle towed an independent mechanic who diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired and towed back to the contact's residence. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V006000 (Power Train). The VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 139,000.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated while driving at 40 MPH, the vehicle hesitated upon depression of the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. Despite multiple attempts to accelerate the vehicle, the vehicle failed to operate as intended. The vehicle was…
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated while driving at 40 MPH, the vehicle hesitated upon depression of the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. Despite multiple attempts to accelerate the vehicle, the vehicle failed to operate as intended. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed or repaired. The local dealer was not notified of the failure. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V006000 (Power Train) that she associated with the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to NHTSA for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would shut off upon depression of the accelerator pedal without warning. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after the failure had occurred. Upon investigation, the contact discovered…
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would shut off upon depression of the accelerator pedal without warning. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after the failure had occurred. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V006000 (Power Train) which he linked to the failure; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V006000 (Power Train). The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue but informed the contact that…
The contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestar. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V006000 (Power Train). The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue but informed the contact that they would not perform the recall repair until there was a failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Power train
Ford is recalling about 206,000 2004 and 2005 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles, because the torque converter output shaft may fail. If the torque converter output shaft were to fail, the result would be a sudden loss of motive power with no warning, increasing the risk of a crash. Ford…
Ford is recalling about 206,000 2004 and 2005 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles, because the torque converter output shaft may fail. If the torque converter output shaft were to fail, the result would be a sudden loss of motive power with no warning, increasing the risk of a crash. Ford will notify owners and dealers will replace the torque converter for free. The safety recall is expected to begin in the second calendar quarter of 2012. The recall campaign number is 11S25. 2012 recall was done at dealership, was the work actually done? With low miles it hard to believe that this has failed!
- Power train › Automatic transmission › Torque converter
The torque converter output shaft fail, sudden loss of motive power with no warning. Takes too long for the shifts, stay on one shift for too long and wont change shift unless the driver stop accelerating. My vehicle seems to have the torque malfunction.
- Power train › Automatic transmission › Torque converter
After stopping at a traffic light in my 2005 Ford Freestar the vehicle would not go forward. I had to be pushed to the side of the road until a tow truck arrived. However, after the vehicle was towed to my home I discovered that it would go in Reverse with no problem, but when put into Drive would…
After stopping at a traffic light in my 2005 Ford Freestar the vehicle would not go forward. I had to be pushed to the side of the road until a tow truck arrived. However, after the vehicle was towed to my home I discovered that it would go in Reverse with no problem, but when put into Drive would slowly pull forward if on level ground. After speaking with a transmission repair shop I was informed that I had a faulty torque converter and that the 2004-2005 Ford Freestars with this problem were being recalled. Also, my third row seat will not properly latch.
- Engine · Power train
After having the torque converter replaced as the recall says I noticed that the transmission was doing good but right outside the warrenty mileage I noticed that it started acting kinda like before after several months guess what as I was climbing up a hill on my driveway the transmission stopped…
After having the torque converter replaced as the recall says I noticed that the transmission was doing good but right outside the warrenty mileage I noticed that it started acting kinda like before after several months guess what as I was climbing up a hill on my driveway the transmission stopped pulling starting to roll backwards and making a grinding noise as for it to recall the torque converter then why has it once again almost like me with loss of all gears yet no new recall had been added why did it do this again?
- Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2005 ford freestar. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was towed to the residence and examined by an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the torque converter was faulty and needed to be replaced.…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 ford freestar. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was towed to the residence and examined by an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the torque converter was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer honolulu ford located at 1370 n king st, honolulu, hi 96817 were notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 12v006000 (power train). The failure mileage was 73,000.
- Power train
TL* the contact called on behalf of his grandmother who owns a 2005 ford freestar. The contact stated that while driving 65 mph, the transmission temperature warning light illuminated as the vehicle lost motive power and began to jerk. The contact attempted to depress the accelerator pedal however…
TL* the contact called on behalf of his grandmother who owns a 2005 ford freestar. The contact stated that while driving 65 mph, the transmission temperature warning light illuminated as the vehicle lost motive power and began to jerk. The contact attempted to depress the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle failed to accelerate. A police officer assisted with pushing the vehicle to the shoulder of the roadway. The vehicle was turned off, restarted, and operated as intended. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign number: 12v006000 (power train) as a possible solution however, the vin was not included. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer were made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
- Engine · Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2005 ford freestar. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle would not move. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle and took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where the pcv valve was replaced. The failure recurred with the vehicle…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 ford freestar. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle would not move. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle and took the vehicle to an independent mechanic where the pcv valve was replaced. The failure recurred with the vehicle not accelerating from a stopped position. The vehicle was taken to bell ford (1200 NJ-27, colonia, nj 07067 (732) 388-6900) and repaired under nhtsa campaign numbers: 12v006000 (power train) and 13v081000 (seats). The contact stated that while performing the recall repairs, the lug nuts were damaged. The driver's and passenger's side axles were fractured, the oil pan was damaged, and power steering lines were also damaged. The contact was informed that the vehicle was repaired. While driving home, the failure recurred. The dealer declined to service the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact stated that the manufacturer contacted the same dealer and was informed that the vehicle had not been repaired under the recalls. The contact was offered no additional assistance. The failure mileage was 130,000.
- Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2005 ford freestar. The contact stated that while driving and accelerating, a knocking noise occurred coming from the flex plate and torque converter. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to park ford (400 west ave, tallmadge, oh 44278), and…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 ford freestar. The contact stated that while driving and accelerating, a knocking noise occurred coming from the flex plate and torque converter. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to park ford (400 west ave, tallmadge, oh 44278), and was diagnosed. The contact was informed that the torque converter and flex plate needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 128,310.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Unknown or other
3 weeks ago my family and I was almost killed by a semi-truck on the highway our vehicle just gave out in the middle of the highway I then started doing research on my vehicle I then reported the vehicle to the safety vehicle complaint and was contacted by a staffing took my vehicle to the said…
3 weeks ago my family and I was almost killed by a semi-truck on the highway our vehicle just gave out in the middle of the highway I then started doing research on my vehicle I then reported the vehicle to the safety vehicle complaint and was contacted by a staffing took my vehicle to the said place in el paso tx case ford my vehicle has been detained for over 2weeks the gentle men [xxx] a worker of casa ford has been very rude and reluctant to actually service my vehicle he said the vehicle wouldn't fail at some point it finally failed I also just purchased a new battery I just bought a week prior to the accident and [xxx] said the battery I had was no good which IS not true and charged me 200 for a new battery I feel that casa ford IS not trying to resolve the issue with my vehicle I'm disabled and my children as well the said he doesn't know what IS wrong that it may be the transmission but something IS broken and not showing up what can our family legally do we have no vehicle 7000 down the drain pl information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr
- Power train
Driving down road and with no warning lost power pulled over and stopped started car fine but wouldn't go either forward or reverse when I checked fluid it was overfilled but I had not added or replaced any fluid spoke with ford dealership and was told there was recall on this issue but when…
Driving down road and with no warning lost power pulled over and stopped started car fine but wouldn't go either forward or reverse when I checked fluid it was overfilled but I had not added or replaced any fluid spoke with ford dealership and was told there was recall on this issue but when I enter vin# into computer says 0 recall eligible vehicle has 115000 miles torque converter recall judgment 2012 for lifetime of vehicle I was driving at 55 mph on a busy highway creating very unsafe situation. *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Stabilus Rear Liftgate Struts Failing
Please see the attached closing resume summary.It has been attached to this document as a PDF.
- Corrosion of Third-Row Seat Attachment
Ford is conducting a safety recall to repair the third-row seat's latch mechanisms in approximately 196,667 model year (MY) 2004 through 2007 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles (see NHTSA recall 13V-081 for more details).The recall covers vehicles originally sold, or currently registered, in the salt belt…
Ford is conducting a safety recall to repair the third-row seat's latch mechanisms in approximately 196,667 model year (MY) 2004 through 2007 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles (see NHTSA recall 13V-081 for more details).The recall covers vehicles originally sold, or currently registered, in the salt belt states or high corrosion areas of the United States: Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.Approximately 100,000 remaining MY 2004-2007 Freestar and Monterey vehicles--those vehicles that were not originally sold, or are not currently registered, in salt belt states--are not included in the recall action. Although these vehicles are the same as the ones described above, they experience significantly lower failure rates because of reduced road salt exposure.ODI is currently aware of only one complaint on vehicle outside of the recall scope.ODI will monitor complaints and take further action if warranted by the circumstances.For owners of vehicles that are outside of the recall scope but exhibit the defect condition, owners (and affected Ford dealers) can contact Ford to request the recall repair.This Engineering Analysis is closed.See attached report and associated recall file for additional information.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10399896, 10410491, 10420028, 10424850, 10433928, 10436592, 10438529, 10440616, 10441489, 10441641, 10442809, 10446564, 10450295, 10450559, 10450587, 10452933, 10453826, 10454977, 10455545, 10456985, 10457423, 10457910, 10458738, 10459042, 10460511, 10461074, 10462910, 10463126, 10463262, 10463366, 10463600, 10464243, 10467003, 10467680, 10468429, 10469188, 10469200, 10470216, 10470510, 10471280, 10471520, 10471813, 10471978, 10472514, 10473087, 10473159, 10477025, 10477387, 10477954, 10478449, 10479247, 10479758, 10480611, 10480665, 10481054, 10481412, 10482213, 10482236, 10482613, 10482620, 10487872, 10489445, 10490515, 10490641, 10490663, 10490744, 10491495, 10492220, 10493470, 10493572, 10496348, 10497631, 10497976, 10498310, 10498433, 10499681, 10499861, 10500495.
- Service Jack Failure
The subject vehicles (SV) are all automatic transmission, front wheel drive vehicles with hand actuated mechanical park brakes. The investigation focused on allegations that the service jack failed and caused the vehicles to fall. The subject scissors-type jack appears to fail at the slotted hinge joints where the…
The subject vehicles (SV) are all automatic transmission, front wheel drive vehicles with hand actuated mechanical park brakes. The investigation focused on allegations that the service jack failed and caused the vehicles to fall. The subject scissors-type jack appears to fail at the slotted hinge joints where the jack screw is located (bends at mid-point). The failures occur while the jack is in use, and vehicle movement (forward or backward) is typically reported coincident with the failure. Ford reported that most MY 2003 Windstar and all MY 2006-2007 Freestar/Monterey also use the subject jack, an additional 223,246 vehicles.NHTSA has received six consumer complaints (VOQs) involving three injury incidents and a fatality.Ford reported 26 complaints for the SVs involving an additional 4 injuries. In the fatal incident, the van fell on a person working on the engine under the otherwise unsupported vehicle; ODI was unable to determine whether the vehicle was adequately chocked or the park brake was properly set. Reported injuries include a broken arm, head and hand injuries, arm and rib bruises, and muscle strains. NHTSA has received just one new report since opening this investigation. The complaint trend in ODI and Ford data is flat if not declining.Ford provides instructions and warnings in the owner's manual, on a placard placed with the jack, and on the jack itself. These instruct consumers to put the vehicle gear selector in Park, properly set the parking brake, chock the opposite wheel, use the jack only for changing a tire, loosen the lug nuts prior to jacking, and to not get under a vehicle supported by the jack only (NHTSA also recommends that jacks only be used for tire changing).In the VOQs, roughly half the consumers were using the jack for something other than tire changing, half had not chocked a wheel, and half had not properly set the parking brake. ODI notes that since the front wheels are drive wheels (with an open center differential) the Park gear cannot provide vehicle stability (longitudinally) when a front wheel is raised. All NHTSA complaints and most of the complaints to Ford involved failures while a front wheel was raised.In response to ODI's inquiry, Ford conducted testing on a 2004 Freestar. Ford's tests showed that when a front tire was raised the service jack held without failing under various scenarios except when a rocking force was applied and the parking brake was not properly set. Based on its testing and its analysis of field data, Ford concluded that the type of jack failure evidenced in this investigation (bending at mid-point) was likely caused by vehicle movement due to an improperly secured vehicle, or other misuse of the jack. Ford notes that rates in this investigation were similar to those in another investigation (EA91-049) which ODI closed. ODI also analyzed jack data for MY 2003 and newer vehicles to compare to the SV population. To assist with this analysis, ODI requested data from the jack manufacturer (actually its successor company) who provided limited data but did identify other models using the same design jack. ODI was unable to identify a significant difference in the incidence of jack failures (including those involving bending failures) between the SVs, other vehicles which used the same jack, or other vehicles where the jack type was unknown or different.A safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.Accordingly, investigation PE11-033 is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist and ODI reserves
- Engine Stalling
The subject vehicles suffered from a design issue whereby water could run down onto the cowling under the hood and located in the area of the windshield wipers and then drip onto a computer module, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which could be manifested in a variety of symptoms depending on which part of the…
The subject vehicles suffered from a design issue whereby water could run down onto the cowling under the hood and located in the area of the windshield wipers and then drip onto a computer module, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which could be manifested in a variety of symptoms depending on which part of the circuit board became wet or which of the connector pins shorted out.In addition to causing an engine to stall, which may or may not then restart, the water intrusion could also cause the transmission to shift poorly, the vehicle to have erratic power, a malfunction indicator light to come on, or result in an inability to start the vehicle, an inability to shift the vehicle into either forward or reverse. Also the problem could cause a higher than normal idle RPM in Park, or for the radio to malfunction, or the interior lights to stay on.During this investigation ODI was concerned with the effect of the engine stalling or a drastic and sudden loss of power either of which may create a safety risk.In reviewing the actual number of these types of incidents, collectively referred to here as engine stalls, the number was found to be below what would be considered a defect trend.For example, the number of engine stalls identified in Ford's warranty claims for the model year (MY) 2004 subject vehicles, the MY with the most failures, was 200 out of population of 125,865, for a failure rate of 0.16%.The one crash recorded by a complainant to NHTSA, VOQ 10311522, alleged that the engine stalled, due to water intrusion into the PCM, while the road was turning causing her to go off the road and according to the police report the vehicle then hit an embankment and a tree stump. Ford reported in their response that there were three alleged crashes but none of these were validated as being caused by a problem with water intrusion into the PCM causing a stall.Accordingly this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist.The agency will continue to monitor complaints and other information relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles and take further action in the future if warranted.
- Transmission Torque Converter Failure
On January 4, 2012 Ford Motor Company submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA Recall No. 12V-006) to NHTSA regarding a defect in the performance of the transmission torque converter for approximately 205,896 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles.The supplier of the torque converter manufactured converters…
On January 4, 2012 Ford Motor Company submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA Recall No. 12V-006) to NHTSA regarding a defect in the performance of the transmission torque converter for approximately 205,896 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles.The supplier of the torque converter manufactured converters containing a pump shaft spline that did not consistently meet the specified heat treatment requirements.In normal use, the spline may wear excessively and eventually fails without warning.If a torque converter malfunctions due to a sheared pump drive spline, the vehicle will abruptly lose motive power.This problem affected model year 2004 and 2005 Freestar and Monterey minivans.During the investigation NHTSA identified 532 complaints alleging incidents of vehicle stall while driving due to torque converter failure.These failures were sudden and without any prior warning.Of the 490 complaints that reported the speed at the time of the failure:218 (44%) occurred at or above 55 mph; and 344 (70%) occurred at or above 40 mph.Of the 382 complaints that reported the position of the vehicle relative to traffic after it came to a stop following the loss of motive power: 122 (32%) alleged that the vehicle came to a stop in the flow of traffic and remained in the flow of traffic until pushed or towed out of the way; 225 (59%) reported that the vehicle was maneuvered to the side of the roadway and remained there until towed; and 35 (9%) reported that they were able to maneuver to a location away from the flow of traffic, such as a parking lot.Two crashes were allegedly caused by torque converter failure, including an incident in which a Freestar suddenly lost power in 65 mph traffic in an area where there was no shoulder available.As a result, the Freestar stopped in a travel lane and when trailing traffic maneuvered to avoid the stalled vehicle, a four vehicle collision occurred.In these types of circumstances NHTSA believes the defect presents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety and so advised Ford.In its Defect Information Report, Ford refers to its response to NHTSA's Preliminary Evaluation information request, which stated that a vehicle that loses motive power due to torque converter malfunction remains readily controllable; the vehicle will coast during which it can be safely maneuvered and stopped because the engine continues to run.Because the engine continues to run, steering and braking are unaffected, and the vehicle's electrical system and directional signals remain functional.In view of the foregoing, NHTSA does not agree with this statement.This investigation is closed based on Ford's recall.
- Torque converter output shaft failure
Odi has received 227 owner complaints alleging a sudden and unexpected loss of motive power due to an internal transmission failure in the subject vehicles.of those complaints, 124 can be attributed to the torque converter output shaft splines stripping causing a sudden loss of power to the drivetrain.the remaining…
Odi has received 227 owner complaints alleging a sudden and unexpected loss of motive power due to an internal transmission failure in the subject vehicles.of those complaints, 124 can be attributed to the torque converter output shaft splines stripping causing a sudden loss of power to the drivetrain.the remaining 103 complaints experienced a loss of motive power but the specific internal failure cause within the transmission IS not known.odi has upgraded the investigation to an engineering analysis (ea09-016) to continue its assessment of the scope, frequency and safety-related consequences of the alleged defect.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10205034Safety recall 13S01 - Corrosion on sheet metal that supports 3rd row seat latch strikeers - requests for recall service action
- 10183770For 2004-2007 Freestar or Monterey vehicles Safety Recall 13S01 has been issued for vehicles that are operated in high corrosion areas for an extended period, where the sheet metal that supports the folding 3rd row seat latch strikers could experience corrosion and may compromise the mounting point for the forward portion of the 3rd row seat. Initially, this condition may result in seat movement when passengers sit on or put weight on the seat, or difficulty latching the front of the seat when in its seating position. If corrosion is severe, the seat latch strikers may become detached from the vehicle. The seat belts and the permanent mounting attachment at the rear of the seat are unaffected.
- 10109070The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic throttle bodies (ETBs). The ETC_ACT and ETC_DSD PIDs should not used to diagnose possible ETB concerns. The IDS has a limited refresh rate when reading these PIDs and cannot display quickly enough to validate a concern. The PCM automatically monitors these inputs more accurately and will set diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) when appropriate. Using these PIDs for diagnostics will lead to inaccurate results and improper ETB replacements. If a concern is intermittent and no DTCs are present, refer to historical DTCs and the PC/ED, Section 3 No DTCs Present Index chart for further information.
- 10058103Ford/mercury: safety recall regarding sheet metal support for folding 3RD row seat latch strikers can experience corrosion and will compromise mounting point causing seat to move. Model 2004-07 freestar, monterey.
- 10021907Advanced traction control system - short duration activation.
- 10021217Power steering hose leak near cooler extreme cold climate areas only -4 degrees and cooler.
- 10020701Advanced traction control system - duration activation.
- 10019067Rear climate control noises - service tip.
- 10019009ABS light on and dtcs c1175/c1236, c1165/c1235 - rear wheel speed sensor.
- 10018071Restraint control module diagnostic trouble code b2296 - service tip.
- 10017923Service wiring harness replacement guidelines - service tips.
- 10017893Traction control lamp - ABS lamp - ABS self activation with dtc c1288. Updated 11/8/07.
- 10017862Vehicles with a cvt transaxle, may exhibit a fluid leak from the transaxle oil pan area.
- 10017552A broken outer c/v joint on vehicles built before 5/1/2005.
- 10016816Steering wheel and or vehicle vibration-vehicles equipped with goodyear intergrity 16 inch tires only.
- 10016808Erratic fluid level reading on transaxle dipstick-leaks-4f50n, AX4N, AX4S transaxle.
- 10016806Dtcs p0760 and p0763-4f50n transaxle-vehicles built before 3/15/2005. This may be due to a shorted transaxle internal harness, caused by a sharp edge on the inside of the side cover casting.
- 10014704Steering wheel.
- 10014636Inability to play home made cd on single cd audio system without MP3 capability.
- 10014607Instrument cluster dtc u1262 and or u1135.
- 10014604Instrument cluster dtc u1130.
- 10014310Weld bonding procedure.
- 10014279Rear brake lining accelerated wear.
- 10014261Power sliding doors and power liftgate inoperative when using the overhead console and/or remote keyless entry transmitter open/close buttons - diagnostic trouble code (dtc) c1999.
- 10014138Safety belt retraction speed.
- 10014086General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures.
- 10014062Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair.
- 10013417Traction control ABS and park brake lamp. Flicker flash illuminate.
- 10013405Traction control ABS and park brake lamp flicker flash illuminate.
- 10013404Access door wraped or breaking off from the underside of the steering wheel shrod.
- 100133903RD row seat strap breaking.
- 10013369General power train control module (pcm) programming procedures.
- 10012954Safety belt web stop button service.
- 10012947Maf diagnostic service tip - vehicles equipped with egr system module (esm).
- 100113363RD row seat strap breaking (strap used for stowing or accessing the rear seat).
- 10011159Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair.
- 100111574F50n transaxle no 1-2 upshift and diagnositc trouble code p0732.
- 10010741Accelerated rear brake wear. Oasis.
- 10009328Front blower motor whistle noise.
- 10009321Inoperative electric rear window defroster (heated backlite) grid lines, integral antenna concerns.
Every Ford Freestar model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.