2006 Ford Five Hundred
2006 Ford Five Hundred
Overview
The 2006 Ford Five Hundred, a mid-size sedan, aimed to offer a comfortable and spacious ride. It was powered by a standard 3.0L V6 engine paired with either a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or a 6-speed automatic transmission. While generally considered a competent vehicle for its time, like any model, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for prospective buyers or current owners.
Engine
3.0L V6 Duratec
Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, sweet smell from engine bay.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Variable Intake Manifold (VIM) Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Check Engine light, rough idle, loss of power, rattling noise from intake.
- Solution: Replacement of the VIM actuator or the entire intake manifold.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Transmission
ZF CFT30 CVT
Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Symptoms: Leaking fluid, slipping gears, delayed engagement, overheating.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of transmission seals and lines.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Valve Body Issues
- Symptoms: Harsh shifting, erratic behavior, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the transmission valve body.
- Cost: $800 - $2000
6-Speed Automatic (6F50)
Torque Converter Problems
- Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, delayed engagement, noise during acceleration.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Cost: $700 - $1800
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Strut Mount Bearing Failure
- Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
- Solution: Replacement of the strut mount bearings.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
Intermittent Electrical Failures
- Symptoms: Malfunctioning power windows, door locks, interior lights, or dashboard warning lights.
- Solution: Reprogramming or replacement of the Body Control Module.
- Cost: $500 - $1000
Alternator
Premature Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, difficulty starting, dead battery.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Interior Components
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2006 Ford Five Hundred presents a mixed reliability profile. The powertrain, particularly the CVT transmission, is a notable area for potential concern, with fluid leaks and valve body issues being the most common complaints. Engine-related issues like intake manifold gasket leaks and VIM actuator failures also require attention. The suspension can experience strut mount bearing issues, and electrical gremlins, often linked to the Body Control Module or premature alternator failure, are not uncommon. While exterior and interior components generally hold up well, potential buyers should be aware of these specific mechanical and electrical vulnerabilities and factor in potential repair costs.