What is the gas mileage on a 2005 Ford Freestar?
The 2005 Freestar with the 4.2-liter V6 typically achieves about 17 mpg in the city, 23 mpg on the highway, and around 19 mpg combined, according to EPA estimates.
The Ford Freestar was a family-friendly minivan produced from 2004 to 2006 as Ford’s answer to crowded daily routines and long road trips. Equipped with a 4.2L V6 and a 4-speed automatic, it offered a straightforward powertrain and standard front-wheel drive. Fuel economy for this model year is a useful baseline for prospective buyers and current owners comparing efficiency to rival minivans, and it varies with driving conditions, load, and maintenance.
Fuel economy by the numbers
EPA estimates for the 2005 Freestar reflect the typical configuration used across most trim levels (4.2L V6 with automatic transmission). The following figures are commonly cited for planning and comparison purposes.
- 17 mpg city
- 23 mpg highway
- 19 mpg combined
Note that real-world results can differ from these numbers due to driving style, cargo, climate, and tire condition. The figures above represent the baseline EPA estimates for the standard drivetrain option.
What influences real-world performance
Actual fuel economy is shaped by several factors beyond the engine itself. Frequent acceleration from a stop, heavy loads (passengers, gear, or towing), and city driving with lots of starts can significantly lower mileage. Conversely, steady highway cruising, proper tire inflation, regular maintenance, and keeping the engine in good tune can help approach or exceed the combined EPA estimate.
Context within the era
During its brief run, the Freestar competed with other mid-2000s minivans like the Dodge Grand Caravan and Honda Odyssey. The 2005 model year saw consistency in powertrain and efficiency across most trims, making the EPA numbers a practical guide for buyers weighing cost of ownership and fuel expenses.
Summary
The 2005 Ford Freestar’s gas mileage centers on the 4.2L V6 with a 4-speed automatic, delivering roughly 17 mpg in the city, 23 mpg on the highway, and about 19 mpg combined. Real-world results depend on driving habits and conditions, but these EPA estimates provide a solid reference point for evaluating fuel costs and efficiency.
How much is a 2005 Ford Freestar worth?
The value of a 2005 Ford Freestar typically ranges from approximately $800 to $3,500, with the final price depending on its condition, mileage, and specific trim level. Factors like a vehicle's overall condition, mileage, and options are the primary determinants of its used car value. For a more precise appraisal, use online valuation tools from sites like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book and provide specific details about the vehicle.
- Range: The value generally falls between approximately $800 and $3,500, depending on various factors.
- Key factors: The final price is heavily influenced by the vehicle's condition, mileage, and specific options.
- Trim level: The original MSRP varied significantly by trim level, with the 'Limited' being the highest and the 'Cargo' being the lowest. This also impacts the used value.
- How to get an exact value: To get a precise valuation, use online tools from sources like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book by entering the vehicle's specific details.
How many miles per gallon does a Ford Freestar get?
The Ford Freestar's gas mileage varies by year and trim, but generally ranges from 17 to 18 MPG combined. For example, the 2007 model has an EPA combined rating of 17 MPG (15 city/21 highway) for most trims, while the 2005 and 2006 models are rated at 18 MPG combined for the base engine.
MPG by year and trim
- 2007 Ford Freestar:
- Combined: 17 MPG (15 city/21 highway) for most trims (SE, SEL, Cargo, Limited).
- 2006 Ford Freestar:
- SE and Cargo: 18 MPG combined (16 city/22 highway).
- SEL and Limited: 17 MPG combined (15 city/21 highway).
- 2005 Ford Freestar:
- Combined: 18 MPG (16 city/22 highway) for the SEL model with the base V6 engine.
What are common problems with a 2005 Ford Freestyle?
Common problems with the 2005 Ford Freestyle include transmission issues, such as slipping, hard shifting, and premature failure, along with electrical problems like alternator overcharging, ignition switch failure, and dashboard warning lights. Other frequent issues include abnormally fast rear brake wear, heater core coolant leaks, and the blower motor only working on high.
This video explains common problems with the 2005 Ford Freestyle transmission and what to do about them: 54sCrazy Bill's GarageYouTube · Nov 6, 2022
Powertrain and drivetrain
- Transmission failure: Some owners report complete transmission failure, with symptoms like slipping, erratic shifts, and the check engine light illuminating.
- Rear brake wear: The rear brakes may wear out much faster than normal, sometimes linked to defective brake pads or warped rotors.
- Whining noise: A whining sound, especially when slowing down or turning, can be due to worn rear brake components or wheel bearings.
Electrical and lighting
- Alternator overcharging: The alternator can overcharge due to a faulty voltage regulator or a problem with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
- Electrical shutdowns: Intermittent electrical shutdowns can be caused by a failing ignition switch or loose battery terminals.
- Dashboard issues: Some owners report a problematic gauge cluster, where some instruments only work if the dashboard is working correctly.
- Blower motor: The HVAC blower motor may only function on the highest speed setting.
Other common problems
- Coolant leaks: Coolant can leak from the heater core, potentially leading to a wet passenger-side floorboard.
- Hard-to-move shifter: The transmission shifter can become difficult to move.
- Check Engine light: The "Wrench Light" or "Service Engine Soon" light frequently comes on, sometimes linked to a defective electronic throttle body (ETB).
How big is the gas tank on a 2005 Ford Freestar?
26 gal
Fuel & MPG
416/546 mi. 26 gal.
