What is the recall on the 2005 Ford Freestar?

The 2005 Ford Freestar has been subject to multiple recall campaigns, and which ones apply to a given vehicle depends on its VIN. To confirm the exact recalls for your Freestar, check the NHTSA recall lookup or Ford’s official recall notices.

This article explains how recall information for this model year is tracked, outlines common areas where campaigns have been issued for the Freestar, and shows how to verify the status for your own vehicle.

Overview of recalls for the 2005 Freestar

Public safety campaigns targeting the Freestar minivan have spanned several systems. The following list covers broad categories that have seen recall campaigns across the Freestar family (2004–2006 model years). Exact recalls and affected VINs depend on the individual vehicle.

• Airbag inflator and occupant-safety system recalls (front and side airbags may be involved in certain campaigns).


• Fuel system recalls (potential leaks or fuel-line issues).


• Powertrain and transmission-related recalls (issues that could affect shifting or driveability).


• Door latch and power sliding door recalls (risk of doors opening unexpectedly or not latching properly).


• Electrical system and wiring recalls (potential short circuits or component failures).


• Brake system-related recalls (brake pedal, master cylinder, or related components).

Because recall campaigns map to specific VINs, not every Freestar will be affected by all the categories above. If a recall exists for your vehicle, the remedy is typically performed at no cost to the owner and is completed by a dealership or authorized service center.

How to check recalls for your 2005 Freestar

To verify the exact recalls that apply to your specific Freestar, follow these steps using your vehicle identification number (VIN) and official recall databases.

• Locate your VIN. It is a 17-character code found on the driver's side dashboard near the windshield, on the driver’s door jamb, or on your vehicle's registration documents.


• Visit the NHTSA recall lookup (NHTSA.gov/recalls) and enter your VIN to see all open or completed campaigns that apply to your vehicle.


• Check Ford's official recall page or contact Ford Customer Service for model-year-specific notices and instructions.


• If a recall is listed, arrange an appointment with an authorized dealer. Recalls are repaired at no charge to the vehicle owner and are typically prioritized based on safety concerns.


• If you are buying a used Freestar, request the recall status and any service history related to campaigns before purchase.

Having a recall remedy completed can help prevent safety issues and might also be a prerequisite for certain insurance or resale conditions.

What to do if your Freestar has an open recall

If your vehicle is listed for a recall, contact your Ford dealer or a qualified service center to schedule the repair. Bring any relevant notices or your VIN so they can pull the exact campaign details and ensure the correct remedy is applied.

Open recalls should be addressed promptly; owners should verify that the remedy has been completed and obtain documentation of the service.

Summary

For the 2005 Ford Freestar, recall status is VIN-specific and can involve multiple campaigns across airbags, fuel systems, transmissions, doors, electrical systems, and brakes. Verify your vehicle’s exact recalls using the NHTSA VIN lookup or Ford’s recall resources, and have any identified recalls repaired at no cost at an authorized dealer. Staying current on recalls helps ensure safety and resale confidence.

What is the recall on the Ford Freestar?

Ford Freestar vehicles have been subject to several recalls, including a recall for corrosion that prevents the third-row seat from locking in certain models sold in salt-belt states. Another major recall affected 2004-2005 models due to a potential failure of the torque converter output shaft, which can cause a sudden loss of power. Owners can check for open recalls by using their vehicle identification number (VIN) on the Ford Recall Portal.
 
Key recalls

• Third-row seat corrosion:
  • Models affected: 2004-2007 Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans. 
  • Issue: Corrosion can prevent the third-row seats from locking into position. 
  • Affected vehicles: Only those sold or registered in certain states where salt is used on roads. 
• Torque converter output shaft failure:
  • Models affected: 2004-2005 Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans. 
  • Issue: The torque converter output shaft can fail, leading to a sudden loss of motive power. 
  • Repair: Ford dealers will replace the torque converter for free. 
• Other recalls:
  • Other recalls may exist for specific model years, such as a 2006 model year recall for fuel line quick connectors that might not fully seat. 

How to check for and get recalls fixed

• Visit the Ford Recall Portal and enter your VIN to check for any open recalls on your specific vehicle. 
• Contact an authorized Ford dealer to schedule a service appointment. 
• Recall repairs are completed at no cost to the owner. 
• The repairs can be done even if you bought the vehicle used. 

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). 

Can Ford recalls expire?

Can a Ford recall expire? Safety, Compliance, and Emissions Recalls do not expire. Affected vehicles remain eligible until the repair is completed. Other types of vehicle programs, called Customer Satisfaction Programs, typically have expiration dates and/or mileage limitations.

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.