What is the mpg on a 2006 Ford 500 SEL?
The 2006 Ford Five Hundred SEL, typically equipped with the 3.0-liter Duratec V6 and front-wheel drive, commonly achieves about 18–19 mpg in city driving and 26–28 mpg on the highway, with a combined figure around 21–23 mpg. Real-world mileage varies based on driving conditions, maintenance, and specific equipment.
In this article, we break down the official estimates, what affects real-world fuel economy, and practical expectations for owners of the 2006 Five Hundred SEL. The SEL is a higher-trim version of Ford’s full-size sedan that shares its underpinnings with the Five Hundred lineup, and mpg can vary slightly by configuration and wear.
EPA fuel economy for the 2006 Five Hundred SEL
Typical configuration and sources
The most common setup for the 2006 Five Hundred SEL is the 3.0L Duratec V6 paired with a traditional automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The following EPA-style figures are representative for that configuration, based on historical fueleconomy.gov data and contemporary reviews:
- City: ~18–19 miles per gallon (mpg)
- Highway: ~26–28 mpg
- Combined: ~21–23 mpg
Note: If a vehicle is equipped with all-wheel drive (rare for this model), or if it has significantly larger tires or other drivetrain changes, the mpg numbers may be modestly lower. For the exact rating of a specific car, check the EPA window sticker or fueleconomy.gov.
What affects mpg on the Five Hundred SEL?
Fuel economy on the 2006 Five Hundred SEL is influenced by several factors beyond the basic engine and drivetrain configuration. Understanding these can help set realistic expectations for mileage.
- Maintenance and condition: Regular tune-ups, clean air filters, proper ignition, aligned wheels, and correct tire pressure help maximize efficiency.
- Driving style and terrain: Gentle acceleration, steady speeds on highways, and minimizing idling improve mpg; stop-and-go city driving or steep hills reduces it.
- Tire size and type: Non-standard or oversized tires, and tires with higher rolling resistance, can lower fuel economy.
- Vehicle age and wear: Aging components can lead to reduced efficiency if not properly maintained.
In practice, many owners report real-world mileage in the low-to-mid 20s mpg, with highway trips often yielding the best efficiency when driving calmly and maintaining proper maintenance.
Summary
The 2006 Ford Five Hundred SEL typically delivers about 18–19 mpg city and 26–28 mpg highway, with a combined range around 21–23 mpg. Actual mileage varies with driving habits, maintenance, and the specific drivetrain configuration. For precise figures, consult the vehicle’s window sticker or fueleconomy.gov.
