Owners have filed 1,093 complaints
about the 2005 Ford Freestar with NHTSA between 2004 and 2026.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 4 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 68
Against the median year of the Ford Freestar. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 15
2.9% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 13
8% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Automatic Transmission
37683.6%
Torque Converter
368.0%
Body
132.9%
Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
71.6%
Hatchback/Liftgate
61.3%
Door
51.1%
Driveline
40.9%
Caliper
30.7%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
141.4%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
101.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
222.2%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
10811.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
25526.1%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
20821.3%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
25726.3%
150,000+ miles
10410.6%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Dec 2004peak 25Jun 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2005 Ford Freestar
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EQ12010Opened 28 Sep 2012Closed 31 Dec 2012STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:SUPPORT DEVICE/STRUT
Stabilus Rear Liftgate Struts Failing
Please see the attached closing resume summary.It has been attached to this document as a PDF.
EA12003Opened 23 Apr 2012Closed 2 May 2013SEATS
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 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,...
PE11033Opened 13 Sep 2011Closed 7 Dec 2012EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT
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 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...
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 t...
EA09016Opened 10 Nov 2009Closed 2 Feb 2012POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
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 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 abrupt...
PE09033Opened 15 Jul 2009Closed 17 Nov 2009POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
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 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...
Recalls on the 2005 Ford Freestar
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
13V081000
SEATS
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 Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. The third row stowable seat can experience corrosion and structural degradation at the seat anchor mechanism mounted to the rear wheel wells. As a result of the corrosion, the third row seat may not fully latch into its seating position.
Risk: In the event that the vehicle is crashed into from the rear, an unlatched seat may increase the risk of personal injury.
12V006000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 AND 2005 FORD FREESTAR AND MERCURY MONTEREY VEHICLES. THE TORQUE CONVERTER OUTPUT SHAFT MAY FAIL.
Risk: THIS CONDITION RESULTS IN A SUDDEN LOSS OF MOTIVE POWER WITH NO WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
06E056000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
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 ATTACHED.
Risk: FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
06V069000
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
ON CERTAIN VANS EQUIPPED WITH THE POWER LIFTGATE OPTION, THE POWER LIFTGATE MOTOR AUTOMATICALLY DISENGAGES AFTER THE LIFTGATE IS POWERED OPEN.
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.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 201307438,181 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles originally sold or currently registered in areas of heavy road salt usage during winter months (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador), corrosion can occur at the latch for the forward portion of the third row seat. Continued corrosion in this area may result in the inability to fully latch the forward portion of the seat into its seating position, which could increase the risk of injury in a crash. Note: Seat belt anchorages and permanent seat anchorages, which are at the rear of the seat, are unaffected. Correction: Dealers will install new third row seat latch striker mounting brackets which relocate the seat latch strikers from the potentially corroded area. In addition, dealers will install overlay panels on the exterior of the wheel wells to prevent entry of water and corrosive elements.
Recall 201200436,421 units in Canada
Powertrain
On certain vehicles, the torque converter could fail. This would result in a loss of vehicle propulsion which, in conjunction with traffic and road conditions, and the driver's reactions, could increase the risk of a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the torque converter assembly.
Recall 2007297251 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Certain vehicles fail to comply with requirements of CMVSS 108 - Lighting System and Retroreflective Devices. The Daytime Running Light (DRL) system is inoperable, and therefore, the vehicle may be less visible to other motorists and pedestrians during daylight hours. Normal headlamp function is not affected. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the electronic module to activate the DRL function.
Recall 20060553,229 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles equipped with Power Liftgate option, in the event of a liftgate strut malfunction, the liftgate may fall freely without warning after the liftgate is powered open. If the vehicle operator or passenger is standing beneath the liftgate when it falls, an injury may result. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the power liftgate module. The latest software version allows the motor to sense a falling liftgate and activate an un-commanded power close mode to control lowering of the liftgate in the event that a strut failure occurs.
Recall 200513019 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
Certain Ford Freestar vehicles modified for wheelchair accessibility by Liberty Motor Company Inc. do not comply with the requirements of CMVSS 210. The second row bench seat only has one set of lower universal anchors (UAS) instead of the required two sets. Also, certain vehicles do not have tether anchor brackets for the bench's two outboard seating positions. This non-compliance would prevent proper installation of a child seat to an outboard seating position. Correction: Owners should contact Liberty Motor Company and then bring their vehicles to a trusted service shop or Ford dealership to have two tether anchors and two UAS brackets installed.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 108,000 milesRapid City, SD1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
REAR HATCH DOOR WHEN OPENED IMMEDIATELY CLOSES, WIFE WAS TRAPPED IN THE DOOR AND HAD TO BE HELPED TO REOPEN THE DOOR BY A PASSING MAN. STATIONARY IN A PARKING LOT
NHTSA complaint #11071613 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 122,000 milesLawnside, NJFire
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 FORD FREESTAR. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE WITHOUT WARNING. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES SUSTAINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 122,000.
NHTSA complaint #10949821 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 58,000 milesBrooklyn, NYCrash
POWER TRAIN
MY TRANS IS NOT WORKING I ONLY HAVE 58000 MILE WANT TO BE REPLACE THANKS [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).'
NHTSA complaint #10759501 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Akwesasne, NYFire1 injured
WHEELS
I HAD RECEIVED A LETTER OF RECALL OF MY BACK ROW SEAT LATCH DO TO CORROSION. I HAD TAKEN MY VAN IN TO BE REPAIRED THEY INFORMED ME THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO ORDER THE PARTS WHICH TOOK 2 WEEKS UPON RETURNING THEY INFORMED ME THEY NEED ANOTHER PART THEY FORGOT TO ORDER SO I WAITED FOR MY CALL BACK AGAIN.. WITHIN 2 MONTHS TIME I RETURNED TO HAVE IT WORKED ON THAT IS WHEN THEY HAD TOLD ME IT HAD BEGUN TO CORRODE N THAT THEY COULDN'T INSTALL THE PARTS I ASKED THEM ABOUT THE SITUATION FURTHER & IF IT WAS SAFE TO DRIVE THEY HAD SAID YES & HANDED ME MY KEYS SO UPON LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP I HAD STOPPED FOR FOOD ON MY WAY HOME I SMELT BURNT RUBBER THEN A THUDDING NOISE I HAD PULLED OVER TO CHECK IT OUT LUCKILY I WAS TO CLOSE TO A FAMILY MEMBERS HOUSE A PIECE HAD FALLEN OFF N WAS RUBBING ON MY TIRE MY TIRES HAD ALMOST CAUGHT FIRE WHEN LUCKILY I HAD GOTTEN THE BABY OUT BEFORE ANYTHING HAD HAPPENED THE NEXT DAY A MECHANIC HAD INFORMED ME A HOLE WAS BURNT THREW THE FLOOR WHERE THE WHEEL WELLS WERE N THE TIRES ALMOST CAUGHT FIRE HE SAID HE COULD WELD THE PARTS SO FRENCHIES FORD COULD FIX WHAT THEY HAD TO FIX .. THE NEXT DAY HE INFORMED ME HE HAD LOOKED UP THE PARTS N CAME ACROSS THIS WEBSITE STATING IT HAD BEEN RECALLED I HAD TOLD HIM WHAT HAPPENED & INFORMED ME TO TAKE LEGAL MATTERS DUE TO FAULTY PARTS . PLEASE DON'T ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN TO ANYONE ELTS THE THOUGHT OF MY BABY BEING IN THE BACK SEAT WHILE IT COULD HAVE CAUGHT FIRE IS TERRIFYING I WOULDN'T WANT TO HEAR OF IT HAPPENING TO ANOTHER UNDER THE SAME CIRCUMSTANCES ESPECIALLY A CHILD . & NOW THAT THERE'S A HOLE IN THE FLOOR I'M UNCERTAIN WHAT TO DO I HAVEN'T DROVE IT SINCE & QUITE HONESTLY I'M AFRAID TO .. P.S IS THIS COVERED? WHOSE @ FAULT? WHAT CAN BE DONE?
NHTSA complaint #10734670 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Akwesasne, NYFire1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
I HAD RECEIVED A LETTER OF RECALL OF MY BACK ROW SEAT LATCH DO TO CORROSION. I HAD TAKEN MY VAN IN TO BE REPAIRED THEY INFORMED ME THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO ORDER THE PARTS WHICH TOOK 2 WEEKS UPON RETURNING THEY INFORMED ME THEY NEED ANOTHER PART THEY FORGOT TO ORDER SO I WAITED FOR MY CALL BACK AGAIN.. WITHIN 2 MONTHS TIME I RETURNED TO HAVE IT WORKED ON THAT IS WHEN THEY HAD TOLD ME IT HAD BEGUN TO CORRODE N THAT THEY COULDN'T INSTALL THE PARTS I ASKED THEM ABOUT THE SITUATION FURTHER & IF IT WAS SAFE TO DRIVE THEY HAD SAID YES & HANDED ME MY KEYS SO UPON LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP I HAD STOPPED FOR FOOD ON MY WAY HOME I SMELT BURNT RUBBER THEN A THUDDING NOISE I HAD PULLED OVER TO CHECK IT OUT LUCKILY I WAS TO CLOSE TO A FAMILY MEMBERS HOUSE A PIECE HAD FALLEN OFF N WAS RUBBING ON MY TIRE MY TIRES HAD ALMOST CAUGHT FIRE WHEN LUCKILY I HAD GOTTEN THE BABY OUT BEFORE ANYTHING HAD HAPPENED THE NEXT DAY A MECHANIC HAD INFORMED ME A HOLE WAS BURNT THREW THE FLOOR WHERE THE WHEEL WELLS WERE N THE TIRES ALMOST CAUGHT FIRE HE SAID HE COULD WELD THE PARTS SO FRENCHIES FORD COULD FIX WHAT THEY HAD TO FIX .. THE NEXT DAY HE INFORMED ME HE HAD LOOKED UP THE PARTS N CAME ACROSS THIS WEBSITE STATING IT HAD BEEN RECALLED I HAD TOLD HIM WHAT HAPPENED & INFORMED ME TO TAKE LEGAL MATTERS DUE TO FAULTY PARTS . PLEASE DON'T ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN TO ANYONE ELTS THE THOUGHT OF MY BABY BEING IN THE BACK SEAT WHILE IT COULD HAVE CAUGHT FIRE IS TERRIFYING I WOULDN'T WANT TO HEAR OF IT HAPPENING TO ANOTHER UNDER THE SAME CIRCUMSTANCES ESPECIALLY A CHILD . & NOW THAT THERE'S A HOLE IN THE FLOOR I'M UNCERTAIN WHAT TO DO I HAVEN'T DROVE IT SINCE & QUITE HONESTLY I'M AFRAID TO .. P.S IS THIS COVERED? WHOSE @ FAULT? WHAT CAN BE DONE?
NHTSA complaint #10734670 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Akwesasne, NYFire1 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
I HAD RECEIVED A LETTER OF RECALL OF MY BACK ROW SEAT LATCH DO TO CORROSION. I HAD TAKEN MY VAN IN TO BE REPAIRED THEY INFORMED ME THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO ORDER THE PARTS WHICH TOOK 2 WEEKS UPON RETURNING THEY INFORMED ME THEY NEED ANOTHER PART THEY FORGOT TO ORDER SO I WAITED FOR MY CALL BACK AGAIN.. WITHIN 2 MONTHS TIME I RETURNED TO HAVE IT WORKED ON THAT IS WHEN THEY HAD TOLD ME IT HAD BEGUN TO CORRODE N THAT THEY COULDN'T INSTALL THE PARTS I ASKED THEM ABOUT THE SITUATION FURTHER & IF IT WAS SAFE TO DRIVE THEY HAD SAID YES & HANDED ME MY KEYS SO UPON LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP I HAD STOPPED FOR FOOD ON MY WAY HOME I SMELT BURNT RUBBER THEN A THUDDING NOISE I HAD PULLED OVER TO CHECK IT OUT LUCKILY I WAS TO CLOSE TO A FAMILY MEMBERS HOUSE A PIECE HAD FALLEN OFF N WAS RUBBING ON MY TIRE MY TIRES HAD ALMOST CAUGHT FIRE WHEN LUCKILY I HAD GOTTEN THE BABY OUT BEFORE ANYTHING HAD HAPPENED THE NEXT DAY A MECHANIC HAD INFORMED ME A HOLE WAS BURNT THREW THE FLOOR WHERE THE WHEEL WELLS WERE N THE TIRES ALMOST CAUGHT FIRE HE SAID HE COULD WELD THE PARTS SO FRENCHIES FORD COULD FIX WHAT THEY HAD TO FIX .. THE NEXT DAY HE INFORMED ME HE HAD LOOKED UP THE PARTS N CAME ACROSS THIS WEBSITE STATING IT HAD BEEN RECALLED I HAD TOLD HIM WHAT HAPPENED & INFORMED ME TO TAKE LEGAL MATTERS DUE TO FAULTY PARTS . PLEASE DON'T ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN TO ANYONE ELTS THE THOUGHT OF MY BABY BEING IN THE BACK SEAT WHILE IT COULD HAVE CAUGHT FIRE IS TERRIFYING I WOULDN'T WANT TO HEAR OF IT HAPPENING TO ANOTHER UNDER THE SAME CIRCUMSTANCES ESPECIALLY A CHILD . & NOW THAT THERE'S A HOLE IN THE FLOOR I'M UNCERTAIN WHAT TO DO I HAVEN'T DROVE IT SINCE & QUITE HONESTLY I'M AFRAID TO .. P.S IS THIS COVERED? WHOSE @ FAULT? WHAT CAN BE DONE?
NHTSA complaint #10734670 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Jackson, MS
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
NHTSA complaint #11742615 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 317,000 milesRochester, MN
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11674191 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Eveleth, MN
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11660471 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Nashoba, OK
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11620383 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Beverly Hills, FL
POWER TRAIN
I was driving and my transmission stopped working left me stranded
NHTSA complaint #11597284 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 350,000 milesWaverly, TN
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11595095 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 180,000 milesIronwood, MI
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11532243 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawrence, KS
SEATS
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.
NHTSA complaint #11511200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawrence, KS
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11511200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawrence, KS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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.
NHTSA complaint #11511200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Marshfield, MO
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.
NHTSA complaint #11507917 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Riverdale, GA
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 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
NHTSA complaint #11506002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 238,000 milesWaynesfield, OH
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11493761 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 139,000 milesSacramento, CA
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11482688 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 200,000 milesEast Saint Louis, IL
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11478981 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lawton, OK
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11456821 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sacramento, CA
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11448350 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Spokane, WA
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 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!
NHTSA complaint #11446072 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Church Hill, TN
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11438204 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Windermere, FL
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.
NHTSA complaint #11438299 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 389,000 milesCleveland, GA
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 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?
NHTSA complaint #11397067 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 389,000 milesCleveland, GA
ENGINE
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?
NHTSA complaint #11397067 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 73,000 milesHonolulu, HI
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. 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.
NHTSA complaint #11385481 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesRaleigh, NC
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, 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.
NHTSA complaint #11366514 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesFords, NJ
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 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.
NHTSA complaint #11359845 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.