2006 Ford Five Hundred

The 2006 Ford Five Hundred was designed as a full-size sedan offering a comfortable ride and spacious interior. The sole engine option was a 3.0L Duratec V6 engine producing 203 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 6-speed Aisin F21 automatic transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners generally appreciated the Five Hundred’s roomy cabin, comfortable ride, and large trunk. Common complaints included the underwhelming engine performance for its size, the styling which some found bland, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.0L Duratec V6

• Timing Chain Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can wear prematurely, leading to engine noise (rattling, especially on startup), poor performance, and potentially engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, decreased fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (depending on how many coils need to be replaced).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin F21 6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds; harsh shifting; and eventual loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the torque converter. In some cases, the entire transmission may need replacement if the failure is severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Premature Failure/Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping, hesitation during acceleration, unusual noises, and eventual failure of the transmission. CVTs, in general, are known for having a limited lifespan, and the one in the Five Hundred is no exception.
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT unit. Rebuilding is sometimes possible, but often not recommended due to the complexity and specialized parts required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearings Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A humming or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle that increases with speed. Play in the rear wheels can be felt when the vehicle is lifted.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per wheel.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and steering response.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator may fail, causing the door not to lock or unlock electronically. Manual operation may still be possible.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument cluster, including the speedometer, tachometer, and other gauges.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster. Repair options may be limited.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sun Visor Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The sun visors tend to lose their ability to stay in the up position and will droop down, obstructing the driver’s view.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per visor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Lid Hinge Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The hinge on the center console lid is prone to breaking, causing the lid to detach or not stay closed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the center console lid or repair of the hinge (if possible).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Ford Five Hundred, while offering a spacious interior and comfortable ride, suffers from several potential issues. Engine issues like timing chain wear and coil pack failures can be costly to address. The transmissions, especially the CVT, are prone to problems, which can lead to significant repair bills. Suspension and electrical gremlins add to the potential ownership costs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to major component failures. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchasing decision, and budget accordingly for potential repairs, especially if considering a model with the CVT.