What engine is in a Ford Freestar?
The Ford Freestar uses a 4.2-liter V6 engine, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission—the sole factory powertrain offered during its 2004–2007 production run.
The Freestar was Ford's family minivan introduced as a successor to the Windstar. It was produced from 2004 to 2007 in North America and shared its powertrain with closely related models such as the Mercury Monterey. This article explains the engine specifications and the context of that choice.
Engine specifications
The following summarizes the core specifications of the Freestar's engine and drivetrain setup.
- Displacement: 4.2 liters
- Configuration: V6
- Power output: roughly 200–210 horsepower (varies by year)
- Torque: around 260 lb-ft
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic
These figures reflect typical specifications for the Freestar's 4.2L V6; exact numbers can vary slightly by model year and trim.
Context and brief history
The Freestar's single-engine strategy matched its role as a practical family van focused on space, comfort, and reliability rather than multiple powertrain options. It was part of Ford's lineup from 2004 through 2007 and was replaced by newer models in later years.
Why the 4.2L V6 was chosen
Ford chose a mid-size V6 that balanced sufficient power for highway merging and towing with reasonable efficiency, while controlling manufacturing complexity and costs by offering one engine throughout the model's life.
Notes for owners and buyers: For a vehicle of this era, maintain the cooling system, timing components (where applicable), and the automatic transmission to keep the Freestar performing well. Engine reliability issues are typically related to age and wear rather than switching engine options.
Summary: The Ford Freestar's engine is a 4.2-liter V6 with a four-speed automatic transmission, and this was the only factory engine option offered during its 2004–2007 production run.
What Ford engine to stay away from?
Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, known for catastrophic failures like EGR and head gasket issues. Other problematic engines are the 5.4L Triton V8 for its spark plug and timing chain problems, the 3.8L and 4.2L SXV6 engines for head gasket failures and timing chain issues, and certain EcoBoost models (especially early 2.7L and some 1.0L, 1.5L, 1.6L) that have faced problems with oil consumption, turbochargers, and coolant leaks.
This video discusses problematic Ford engines including the 6.4L Power Stroke: 1mAutotrendsYouTube · Jun 29, 2025
Diesel engines
- 6.0L Power Stroke (2003-2007): Prone to injector, EGR cooler, and head gasket failures.
- 6.4L Power Stroke (2008-2010): Suffers from fuel dilution, clogged DPFs, and cracked pistons.
V8 engines
- 5.4L Triton (1997-2010): Has issues with spark plugs breaking during removal, cam phaser failures, and timing chain stretch.
This video explains why the 5.4L Triton engine is considered one of the worst: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
V6 engines
- 3.8L SXV6 (1982-2008): Often experiences head gasket failures.
- 4.2L SX V6 (1997-2008): Has a problematic timing chain system with plastic guides that can fail and lead to catastrophic engine damage.
EcoBoost engines
- Early 2.7L EcoBoost (circa 2016-2017): Some models had problems with defective valve guides, turbocharger failures, and leaking plastic oil pans.
- 1.0L, 1.5L, and 1.6L EcoBoost: Some versions of these engines have reported issues with coolant intrusion into the engine block, overheating, and turbocharger failures.
- 3.5L EcoBoost: Common complaints include carbon buildup on intake valves, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures.
This video explains some of the issues with the EcoBoost engine: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025
Other engines to be cautious about
- Certain 2.0L, 2.5L, and 3.6L boxer engines: Some model years are less reliable.
What are common Ford Freestar problems?
Top 5 problems of your Freestar:
- Transmission failure. Complete transmission failure in the Ford Freestar is often linked to torque converter or pump issues, causing the vehicle to lose drive power and shift erratically.
- Torque converter malfunction.
- Rear axle corrosion.
- Engine stalling.
- Water leaking into cabin.
What engine does a Ford Freestar have?
All Freestars came standard with an Essex V6 engine. The Essex V6 is a pushrod motor that has two overhead valves per cylinder.
Why did Ford discontinue the Freestar?
Following a decline in sales across the minivan segment in the mid-2000s, the Freestar and Monterey were discontinued after the 2007 model year with no direct replacement.
