Used 2005 Ford Freestar Minivan Consumer Reviews
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Built Ford Tough
flin1, 12/31/2015
2005 Ford Freestar S 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
37 of 37 people found this review helpful
I bought this van with 89K on it for my daughter. She was happy just to get some wheels and I wanted a lot of iron around her. It's about to turn over 200K and still going strong. It needed a head gasket a while back and some breaks a couple of times. The transmission seems fine and I had synthetic ATF put in it when I bought it. I like Ford vans.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Love it!
Randy, 10/30/2010
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
23 of 23 people found this review helpful
I love this van. It gets good gas mileage (23 mpg) and is very comfortable. I just drove it on a 1000 mile trip and had a blast!
Owner
charles gillespie, 10/11/2010
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
26 of 27 people found this review helpful
This has been a good experience for me. The only problem I've had was the transmission quit at about 82,000 miles and it cost me 1,800 to rebuild I have talked to other owners with the same problem. They should call a recall. I have saved my repair bill. I am a senior citizen and had to borrow money to have it fixed. But I love the van.
Still satisfied
Family Priorities, 09/23/2009
2005 Ford Freestar SES 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
We shopped around quite a bit with all brands of vans at the time, and Ford had the best safety at the time and historically. Safety of GM and Chrysler were unacceptable. Honda's was same as Chrysler, and had history of trans issues. Toyota had brought up their safety to match 5 star, but only more recently, and had history of engine sludge issues. Drives well, comfortable even on long trips, and plenty of room for kids and all associated junk. No major problems up to now. Good gas mileage and surprising performance for something of this weight, which is really what we needed for a double stroller, etc.
Transmission issue
tster1, 05/23/2013
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
39 of 45 people found this review helpful
there is a well documented transmission/cruise/torque converter/PCM relationship issue I have experienced. Tranny blew and dealer says not torque converter to blame. It was a sudden and catastrophic failure.
Van has been in dealer's repair shop 4x in 2 month
Bill Gould, 09/18/2015
updated 09/19/2016
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
I bought this van used with 150xxx miles on it and was very, very happy with it. It is comfortable to ride in. I buy and sell used furniture and I removed the second row seats so that I can carry a lot of "cargo". It handles very well. Put on full set of new tires and the ride was improved, very smooth and quiet. BUT....out of the blue one day I lost power without warning (later found that this was fairly common on this model). Dealer replaced torque converter because it was a recall item. It has been back into the repair shop three other times since them, each time I was told it was one sensor or another, which were replaced. It is currently in the repair shop for the fourth time, has been there five days already and no word on what will make it work the way it is supposed to. Thankfully I have a free loaner car to use while waiting to hear. Great car, ..........until it breaks down.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Nice people hauler
3kids&adog, 06/23/2010
2005 Ford Freestar SES 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
We bought this van used with about 17,000 miles. It has cloth bench seats and an optional factory overhead DVD player. Has been quite reliable so far. Now has 113,000 or so miles, and has developed a bit of a miss, maybe even transmission shudder, but the dealer says it just need a tune up. Good value, I'll post again after the tune-up.
Great van
1lap2go, 03/02/2009
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Have enjoyed this van as it's the 3rd Ford Windstar/Freestar van we have owned. I do get over 20mpg with this van if you don't use ethanol gas. Enjoy the "van" room but do not think I need that much room anymore, besides everyone thinks you should drive cuz you have so much room. This van has been troublefree like my previous vans. Haven't had to walk yet.
Freestar transmission failure
last_ford, 10/04/2007
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
We have an 05' Ford Freestar the rear brakes went bad after 22,000 miles and now at 37000 miles the transmission has had an "internal failure" of the fluid pump resulting in the need for a new transmission for $3500. The mechanic at Ford (with 22 years experience) has never seen this before, yet Ford will not cover the repair because it is 1200 miles over the bumper-to-bumper warranty. The main reason why Ford does not increase their warranty to 5years/60,000 miles is beacuse most of their vehicles would not make it that long without some type of failure. Ford Motor Co has refused to help and so has the dealer-very frustrated-WILL NEVER BUY FORD AGAIN and neither should anyone else.
Front end problems
truered, 07/31/2004
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
15 of 19 people found this review helpful
The van overall is nice and very roomy... But, there is a problem with the front ends with these vheicles... It is almost like they just trew them together....
Good Minivan for the Price
Sunburn, 10/26/2004
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Recently bought an 04 SEL after looking at used Grand Caravan SEs. The Freestar was only about $1K more after all the rebates and discounts. The Freestar has far more features for the price. The interior design is good, with lots of storage. The 1st and 2nd row seats are comfortable. The 3rd row is only suitable for adults for very short trips. The bottom cushion is too close to the floor. The powertrain is a mixed bag. The 4.2L has great torque, but can be a bit unrefined at times. The mileage could be better as well. The transmission is unobtrusive. The ride is comfortable and quiet. The handling is good. The build quality appears very good as well. Overall, a good, but not great minivan.
Works ok but so many little problems
IRISBRAMBLE, 03/11/2016
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
Bought this car after my brand new jeep was totaled in a car accident that was not my fault. I bought straight out from my mechanic it had 90,000 miles on it. Never of the electric sliding doors work right they get stuck, they don't open, or open again after closing. Power locks sometimes don't work, and the alarm sometimes goes off for no reason. The tire light is constantly on and it burns oil, I have had the fuel system and lines goes several times, and converter went as well. The most annoying thing is about 6 months ago I lost all radio reception and just a week ago my front windshield wipers stopped working. I have had this van almost 3 years and it still runs so I can't get rid of it but i wish I could.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
A capable people hauler
Steve May, 12/27/2009
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
10 of 13 people found this review helpful
No, this is not a Honda Odyssey or a Toyota Sienna - both of them IMO are overpriced and you might as well as go for the Korean vans then. The FORD is a capable, SAFE, comfortable and quiet people hauler. It has sufficient room and handles fine. It feels and drives built solid! The steering is good and the brakes are strong. The motor is quiet and is plenty of torque whether it's loaded or not - 4.2L will do that. And yes, it does not get 20 mpg in town but the engine barely works to get the job done.....that means a long life providing it's taken care of. We have a friends with an 4.0L AERO STAR with 190K on it...going strong! A good van and a good deal!
driver
Pete, 02/12/2005
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Enjoy driving it, it's a gas guzzler comparing it to other minivans and a has small gas tank. Averaging 300 miles to a tank or 12.3 miles to gallon of gas. Still don't know why they advertise it for 17 mpg city to 22 mpg for freeways.
What I Like About My Van
Ginger, 12/04/2007
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I love driving this vehicle. It is comfortable and easy to park. I find that my gas mileage is about 22 mpg. on the freeway and slightly less in town. Most of my driving is work related and I have more than enough cargo space. I have never had any problems mechanically, as I am very careful following the manufacturers service instructions.
more Ford Junk
Mark Danico, 07/10/2010
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 9 people found this review helpful
Loved the van until the problems started then it has been all down hill from there to the poit to where we are considering turning it in to a plant pot cause it don't move anymore.
Not recommended for families
b austin, 05/16/2006
2005 Ford Freestar SES 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The gas mileage is not good for the amount of comfort and conveniences that a van should provide. The rear seats are not very comfortable for adults. Seat belt reminders are annoying. Tire pressure gauges are very handy. The brakes are prone to glaze over. Maybe they are not equipped for the weight of The vehicle. This surprises me since this vehicle is designed for the "soccer mom". The expense of the vehicle, the cost of fuel, the constant brake repairs, and the cost of registration for the weight of this vehicle are not worth it for the amount of comfort or conveniences supposedly offered in a minivan. I would choose something else if I were looking to take a big loss on this and trade it in.
awesome
vicki, 04/13/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SES 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is a 2 year lease and I got it before a huge snow storm. The vehicle just cruised through the snow with little swerving and sliding. The only complaint I have is the aerodynamics; if you roll down the back window without the front being down your head will pound really bad; otherwise it is good in all conditions and great for carrying things I sell at flea markets and there is plenty of room. Would recommmend for reliability.
It's the best
Adam, 07/08/2005
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love my 2005 Ford Freestar; my kids love the DVD entertainment system and my wife likes how she can start the car with the keyless entry system and just go hop in to her heated seats. I like the 6 disk CD changer also. My kids like that they have some power in the back with the rear controls for the air condition and audio options; we also like the electronic 3 zone climate system. Wow there is just do much stuff about it, I like the message system where the car can check it self. But we mostly love the power sliding doors and liftgate; the power liftgate is the one feature we use the most because everytime we go to buy something we just open or close it with a touch of a button.
Great Family-Mobile
truckboy1, 08/29/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My family loves this van, and visitors and guests love the comfort of the ride compared to my previous BMW sedan. Plenty of room when relatives ride along, and it has not let us down yet when it comes to reliability. My visiting parents commented how impressed they were with the quality of this Ford. My father had previously sworn-off Fords after his earlier fiasco with his Mustang decades ago.
Solid
hams, 06/14/2007
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
We bought this van because we got a great deal on it and we were looking for a reliable vehicle for our daughter to drive with a good safety rating. We've had good luck with Fords in the past and currently own a '99 Windstar with 108K and a '95 Explorer with 118K. We fully expect this baby to give us another good 100K.
Don't Buy A Freestar Van
Found On Road Dead , 11/27/2009
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 10 people found this review helpful
Don't buy a Freestar van. Strict with Honda or Toyota vans. This is my last Ford. This van orginal cost was $30K. It cost me $3,000 to get this van fixed with only 40K miles and I still have problems.
From 1998 Windstar to 2005 Freestar
Brian , 06/08/2009
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
Since 2001, I had a 1998 Ford Windstar with 3.8Liter. after being fed up with 1998 Ford Windstar with blown head gasket which the coolant level keeps going down and I had transmission replaced prior in 2007 for 1998. Since January 2nd 2009, I had to trade in for a 2005 Ford Freestar which it was available at the dealer. The 2005 version is lot better and big improvements over the 1998 version. However, I noticed that the 2005 version is 1200 lbs heavier than the 1998. But it feels very stable ride, except the fuel mileage. I am getting around 19 - 20 mpg even though it stated for 24 mpg. I use the vehicle mainly for my work and carrying loads once in a while and also do some towing.
Freestar sets you free
Chip, 04/26/2005
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Freestar is perfect for a VMI conversion for handicapped drivers! The ride is smooth, especially on the highway. The is not much wind noise, either. My conversion adds A LOT of weight and modifies the aerodynamics to the van which hinders fuel economy slightly.
FREESTAR AFTER RETIREMENT
CARL, 12/19/2004
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
VERY ROOMY AND GOOD HANDLING. USE FOR CRAFT SHOWS HOLDS LARGE PIECES OF FURNITURE AND OTHER ITEMS. WENT FROM A FORD F 150 WITH HIGH FIBERGLASS CAP TO 98 WINDSTAR VAN THAN TO THE FREESTAR AND CAN LOAD AS MUCH OR MORE DUE TO NO WHEEL WELLS IN THE WAY AS IN PICK UP BED. WENT TO THE FREESTAR WHICH ELIMINATED REMOVING THE THIRD SEAT AS IN THE WINDSTAR. WHAT I NEED IS FOLD DOWN SECOND ROW SEATS AS THEY ARE HARD AND HEAVY TO REMOVE AND REPLACE.(NOT HANDY)FOR OLDER , SMALLER AND SHORT PEOPLE. I AM 6'1" BUT THEY ARE STILL NOT EASY TO HANDLE .
I love my minivan
ARH, 09/04/2006
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We bought this car as a replacement for a 2002 minivan and are still glad we did. It rides like a dream, seats 7 people very comfortably. I like sitting higher when I drive so this really fits the bill. My only problem I'm when I'm doing 65-70 mph I get a 'singing vibration' on the drivers side front. We tried moving the roof rack but that didn't help. So, we live with it & I slow down when I get the noise. Maybe that was the idea in the first place? We remove both seats (easy to do) occasionally & use it as a truck which is handy. We can also sleep back there when we take long trips. Just put down an air mattress & you're good to go.
On par with other vehicles I've owned
Dave, 06/11/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
If you want a solid minivan then you should consider this one. I looked at the other competitors and they're all great. I made the final decision on price and dealer experience. My second choice was the Nissan, third Honda, and last Toyota. I simply refuse to buy a Toyota because the dealers never budge on price. I've driven Ford and Nissan products and will stick with them in the future.
Great Van
Great Van, 08/27/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have only had my van for a couple of weeks, but so far the family loves it. The kids really like the DVD system and I like the peace and quiet I get when I'm in the car. It seems that this van has something for everyone. The captain chairs in the second row are great. It gives the kids plenty of room to spread out. I love all the storage and the deep space in the back ... no more having to chase the groceries around. Overall I think I made a smart purchase, especially with all the rebates and discount pricing I got a great deal and a great family vehicle.
Fab Freestar
Howard Groce, 05/23/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We bought our Freestar in September 2004 and have really enjoyed it. Styling is outstanding and reliability is unquestionable. Fuel economy is less than I had expected.
2005 Freestar
kevin walsh, 08/25/2006
2005 Ford Freestar SES 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Excellent vehicle, purchased from dealer certified with 12K miles & 1 retail owner. $15,600, can't beat that. We like the 2nd row captains seats. Drives as minivan should, solid & rattle free. Completely satisfied.
An excellent all around vehicle
Peter Leechh, 10/24/2005
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My previous vehicle was a late model Lexus LS, a very good car, but I am just as happy driving the Freestar & it is more practical. Highly recommend it!
Great Van for the Money
F.J. Rogers, 09/04/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Freestar is a very good value for the dollar. The 3.9 engine performs and offers good fuel mileage. The van's design offers good visibility and the controls and gauges are all in the right places. There is good driver and front passenger leg room. The third seat is a little cramped, a complaint that is common for most minivans. When equipped, the van will tow 3,500 lbs., allowing for a small family boat or utility trailer to be pulled. Once again a good value in the minivan market.
Rattles and noises
James Littlefield, 05/25/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SES 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Isn't it possible for Ford to build an auto that doesn't have rattles in it and doesn't sound like a cement mixer when idling? Friends of ours have a new Toyoda van and when idling, it is impossible to hear it running. My new Freestar sounds like a cement mixer compared to the Toyota. Also at times there is a noise from behind the dash that sounds 100% like a tuning fork. Have taken van back to garage, and of course it doesn't act up! Am I the only one that has had these problems?
Review
Louise, 06/13/2008
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
We have had our van a month and love it! It is actually fun to drive! We have plenty of room and there is a DVD player for our grandkids!! If you're looking for a sporty reliable van this is the one to get!
Please read before purchasing Freestar
Paul, 03/26/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This purchase unfortunately has been a disappointment. The Ford dealer was willing to give a good discount but we wound up with a very uncomfortable minivan. The second and third row of seats offer very poor leg room and on long trips it almost becomes unbearable. If I had to do it over again I would have definitely taken a closer look at the Sienna or Odyssey. Ford doesn't have its act together in this car at all.
don't buy this
bwmcc, 06/17/2005
2005 Ford Freestar S 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have had this minivan since Jan '05. This is a company vehicle so luckily i didn't have to buy this. Been in the shop twice for engine knock and check engine light. Had to replace the gas tank and the knock is better but still there at highway speeds. Was in the shop total of 9 days. If this was my personal vehicle I would be very annoyed. Give me my Caravan back!
Bad car
Me, 05/31/2018
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 7 people found this review helpful
Junk car.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Love It.
Big-mo., 09/16/2004
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have a Limited,every option,and our families first mini van,(3rd child on the way),We absolutely love this vehicle,great on long trips,new styling is very attractive,4.2 liter v-6,very good power,best torque in class,#1 safety ratings,no regrets!
Freestar
Trish, 04/12/2005
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love our Freestar. It has all the options, and is fun and completely practical for our family of seven! I would recommend this minivan to anyone looking for a safe, reliable, family friendly minivan.
great vehicle
kelialau, 10/12/2004
2005 Ford Freestar S 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I feel safe for my kids when they are in it. and the ride is great.
I give it a 10
Melissa Dobson, 10/12/2004
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love it. It's easy to get my daughter in and out of the van.
Freestar Perfromance
Joe, 04/13/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SES 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great basic van. Very practical. First minivan purchased. 3.9L engine is weak for the weight but delivers good mileage. Excellent safety record.
" The Best Minivan!
Peter Leech, 10/28/2004
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded my 3rd Lexus LS400 for this Freestar & enjoy driving it every bit as much!! A few years ago I owned my own Mercedes Dealership for a number of years & I do know & "Love Cars & Driving"! I consider this Freestar a FIRST CLASS VEHICLE. Contact me for any other details!
FreeStar Review
dorothy haynes, 11/11/2004
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
FreeStar has stablility more than I ever imagined and the side airbags that are available are a great added safety feature. The 4.2 engine gives pickup on interstates and town streets. I had a Windstar prior to this and with the FreeStar I actually found something that was even better. My elderly mother gets in easily and my dogs fit in perfectly. I love this van and I would buy it again.
Freestar SES
allisonw, 01/15/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SES 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only had this minivan for a few days but I like it very much. I have the optional 17 inch rims, so the ride is much smoother than on the 2005 Caravan that I rented last spring. I don't understand why this van received such low ratings from consumer magazines and online services, because I actually find it far superior to the Caravan that they love to rave about.
Overall, not a good car
Ian, 03/13/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SE 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I thought that the car ran nicly, but after about 3,000 miles we had to take the car in to get the entire electrical system replaced. That was not the problem; they found a problem that the dealer needed a specialist to fix. My children think that the rear seats are too low, and lastly the the interior is already ripping at the seams, literally. So over all this car is not a good car to buy and what I think anyone who is looking at this car to do is buy the competitive Mercury Monterey.
About the same as the Windstar
Family in MI, 03/18/2005
2005 Ford Freestar Limited 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded in my Windstar which was one big electrical problem. And it seems I just got a new version of the Windstar. Still electrical problems. I've had the electric door module fixed twice in 5 months. The door ajar light stays on with the dome lights when the module goes out. Had the same problem with my Windstar. The quality inside is worse than the Windstar and has cheaper plastic. But it looks nice inside. I just don't feel the quality is there. I don't like that you can't get cloth seats in the Limited. I don't like leather, it's too hard and uncomfortable. I like the van, but it isn't my best choice. I should have shopped better.
Freestar
aperry, 03/19/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SES 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This van, while very safe feeling, handles more like a small truck.
Best value
John, 03/23/2005
2005 Ford Freestar SEL 4dr Minivan (4.2L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
With the marginal press reviews this van gets, discounts are plentiful. Very quiet and comfortable. Zero problems so far.
Reliable, Comfortable, and Family Van
madmax-ooohhh, 08/14/2005
2005 Ford Freestar S 4dr Minivan (3.9L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Test drove the New Toyota, Chrysler, and Honda Minivans, but did not feel the additional 4000-8000 premium over a similarly equipped Freestar was worth it. I was pleasantly surprised with the overall fit and finish of the van, and build quality. Only thing it lacks is a AWD option.
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