2007 Ford Freestyle

The 2007 Ford Freestyle is a crossover SUV that aimed to combine the space of a minivan with the styling of an SUV. It was only available with a 3.0L Duratec V6 engine producing 203 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Many owners appreciated the Freestyle’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively good fuel economy for its size. However, common complaints included the lackluster performance of the engine, the unreliability of the CVT transmission, and some electrical issues.

Engine

3.0L Duratec V6

• Camshaft Synchronizer Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A squealing or chirping noise coming from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds. Can also cause a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft synchronizer and possibly the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• PCV Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, vacuum leaks, check engine light, and potential oil leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the PCV valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$150
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• CVT Failure/Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation upon acceleration, slipping, shuddering, erratic shifting, inability to accelerate, and eventual complete transmission failure. The CVT is known to be a weak point in this vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the CVT fluid may offer temporary relief in some cases. However, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement is often required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, especially when lightly accelerating. Can also manifest as general poor shifting performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A humming or roaring noise coming from the rear of the vehicle that increases with speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected wheel bearing(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per wheel
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when driving over bumps, especially at slower speeds. Can also cause poor handling and premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents, or inconsistent temperature between driver and passenger sides. Clicking sound behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power window operates slowly, erratically, or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not reading correctly, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles can break, especially in cold weather, making it difficult to open the doors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin around the sunroof area, especially during heavy rain. This can lead to mold and mildew growth.
  • Solution: Cleaning the sunroof drain tubes or replacing the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Ford Freestyle, while offering a spacious interior and comfortable ride, is plagued by several common issues. The most significant and costly of these is the potential for CVT transmission failure. Other issues, such as electrical problems and suspension wear, are also common and contribute to the overall ownership cost. While individual repair costs for the non-transmission issues may seem manageable, the frequency with which they occur can make the Freestyle a potentially expensive vehicle to maintain, especially given its age.