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2006
Ford Freestar

Starts at:
$23,655
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New 2006 Ford Freestar
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Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Not rated
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr SE
    Starts at
    $23,655
    18 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr SEL
    Starts at
    $26,615
    17 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Limited
    Starts at
    $29,575
    17 City / 23 Hwy
    MPG
    7
    Seat capacity
    Gas V6
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar 2006 Ford Freestar

Notable features

Choice of two V-6s
Fold-away third-row seat
Optional Safety Canopy system
Optional power liftgate
Three trim levels

The good & the bad

The good

Passenger space
Automatic-transmission operation
Performance
Visibility
Frontal crash-test ratings

The bad

Interior ergonomics
Fuel economy in city
Ride comfort in city
Engine noise
Trucklike characteristics

Expert 2006 Ford Freestar review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
Ford introduced the Freestar in 2004, which replaced the company’s Windstar minivan. Mercury’s Monterey is closely related, and both are manufactured in Canada.

The 2006 lineup includes three models: SE, SEL and Limited. The Limited now uses chrome on the 16-inch wheels, door handles and roof rack, but 17-inch polished alloy wheels are optional.

An SE Appearance Package is available for 2006, and the SEL gets bright, machined, 16-inch wheels. The front door panels have been redesigned. New standard equipment includes cruise control, a CD player, roof rails and a tire-pressure-monitoring system.

Ford has indicated that it may stop making minivans after the 2006 model year.

Exterior
The Freestar’s appearance is similar to the Windstar’s. Distinctive front-end styling themes differentiate Freestar trims. The SE model has a body-colored grille, whereas a chrome grille and five-spoke aluminum wheels go on the SEL. Limited models have exclusive exterior trim and power sliding doors, as well as heated signal mirrors with puddle lamps.

Large upright headlights and an eggcrate grille integrate with the hood and front fenders. Contoured rear bumpers promise a low liftover height.

Standard wheels measure 16 inches in diameter, but 17-inch tires on aluminum wheels are optional. Measuring 201 inches long overall, the Freestar rides a 120.8-inch wheelbase. Self-sealing tires and a power liftgate are optional.

Interior
Freestars can seat up to seven occupants. Second-row bucket seats in upper-end models include a fold-and-tumble feature. The third-row seat can be positioned to face the rear for tailgate parties, and it can fold flat into the floor. Cargo space behind the third row totals 27.4 cubic feet. A covered compartment atop the dashboard holds small items.

Overhead consoles on the SEL and Limited contain readouts for outside temperature, a compass and auxiliary buttons for the power sliding doors, if installed. Front-door cupholders can hold 20-ounce beverages. Ford’s Conversation Mirror lets drivers watch children in the rear. Power-adjustable pedals, a DVD entertainment system and Ford’s Reverse Sensing System are optional.

Under the Hood
A 193-horsepower, 3.9-liter V-6 is standard in the SE model. A 4.2-liter V-6 in the SEL and Limited generates 201 hp and 263 pounds-feet of torque. Both engines team with a four-speed-automatic transmission.

Safety
All-disc antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution are standard. On Freestars equipped with Ford’s AdvanceTrac electronic stability system, panic brake assist — which applies added pressure in an emergency — is included. A Safety Canopy side curtain-type airbag system is available.

Driving Impressions
Like its Windstar predecessor, the Freestar seems a little more trucklike than most minivans. When parking, this minivan seems unusually wide.

Performance with the 4.2-liter V-6 is energetic, and the automatic transmission yields prompt, smooth shifts. Moderate engine noise during acceleration is present. The Freestar is fairly easy to drive and maneuvers with acceptable agility. The ride is sufficiently smooth on good surfaces.

The seat bottoms are short but offer good support. Front headroom is abundant, and elbowroom is adequate. Second-row occupants get plenty of space when bucket seats are installed. Squeezing into the third row isn’t too difficult.

2006 Ford Freestar review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
Ford introduced the Freestar in 2004, which replaced the company’s Windstar minivan. Mercury’s Monterey is closely related, and both are manufactured in Canada.

The 2006 lineup includes three models: SE, SEL and Limited. The Limited now uses chrome on the 16-inch wheels, door handles and roof rack, but 17-inch polished alloy wheels are optional.

An SE Appearance Package is available for 2006, and the SEL gets bright, machined, 16-inch wheels. The front door panels have been redesigned. New standard equipment includes cruise control, a CD player, roof rails and a tire-pressure-monitoring system.

Ford has indicated that it may stop making minivans after the 2006 model year.

Exterior
The Freestar’s appearance is similar to the Windstar’s. Distinctive front-end styling themes differentiate Freestar trims. The SE model has a body-colored grille, whereas a chrome grille and five-spoke aluminum wheels go on the SEL. Limited models have exclusive exterior trim and power sliding doors, as well as heated signal mirrors with puddle lamps.

Large upright headlights and an eggcrate grille integrate with the hood and front fenders. Contoured rear bumpers promise a low liftover height.

Standard wheels measure 16 inches in diameter, but 17-inch tires on aluminum wheels are optional. Measuring 201 inches long overall, the Freestar rides a 120.8-inch wheelbase. Self-sealing tires and a power liftgate are optional.

Interior
Freestars can seat up to seven occupants. Second-row bucket seats in upper-end models include a fold-and-tumble feature. The third-row seat can be positioned to face the rear for tailgate parties, and it can fold flat into the floor. Cargo space behind the third row totals 27.4 cubic feet. A covered compartment atop the dashboard holds small items.

Overhead consoles on the SEL and Limited contain readouts for outside temperature, a compass and auxiliary buttons for the power sliding doors, if installed. Front-door cupholders can hold 20-ounce beverages. Ford’s Conversation Mirror lets drivers watch children in the rear. Power-adjustable pedals, a DVD entertainment system and Ford’s Reverse Sensing System are optional.

Under the Hood
A 193-horsepower, 3.9-liter V-6 is standard in the SE model. A 4.2-liter V-6 in the SEL and Limited generates 201 hp and 263 pounds-feet of torque. Both engines team with a four-speed-automatic transmission.

Safety
All-disc antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution are standard. On Freestars equipped with Ford’s AdvanceTrac electronic stability system, panic brake assist — which applies added pressure in an emergency — is included. A Safety Canopy side curtain-type airbag system is available.

Driving Impressions
Like its Windstar predecessor, the Freestar seems a little more trucklike than most minivans. When parking, this minivan seems unusually wide.

Performance with the 4.2-liter V-6 is energetic, and the automatic transmission yields prompt, smooth shifts. Moderate engine noise during acceleration is present. The Freestar is fairly easy to drive and maneuvers with acceptable agility. The ride is sufficiently smooth on good surfaces.

The seat bottoms are short but offer good support. Front headroom is abundant, and elbowroom is adequate. Second-row occupants get plenty of space when bucket seats are installed. Squeezing into the third row isn’t too difficult.

Available cars near you

Safety review

Based on the 2006 Ford Freestar base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Frontal driver
5/5
Frontal passenger
5/5
Nhtsa rollover rating
4/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years
Powertrain
3 years / 36,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Fords and many non-Ford vehicles up to 10 years old with less than 150,000 miles
Basic
90-Day / 4,000-Mile (whichever comes first) Comprehensive Limited Warranty
Dealer certification
139-point inspection

Consumer reviews

4.6 / 5
Based on 31 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.7
Interior 4.4
Performance 4.2
Value 4.6
Exterior 4.5
Reliability 4.3

Most recent

  • One of the best towing minivans

    Compared to other front drive minivans, it's a gas guzzler and stops slowly. Not a great choice for soccer moms, but maybe the best choice for bigger families towing camper or boat often. Nice cargo van for people looking to take all seats out but maybe better mpg 3L in another make for the traveling crowd.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Towing
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    6 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I love my freestar

    I bought my 2006 used 4 years back from a couple who had bought it brand new and taken very good care of it. It has lots of power as comfortable ride and a very dependable machine. I couldn't be happier with it.I've only had to put around $500 in it since I've owned it. Ford vans are indeed built Ford tough. Almost at 200k miles and she still runs like a baby.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    5 people out of 6 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Dependable vehicle without a lot of frills

    This is the second one of these vehicles we have owned and they are reliable and roomy. Not a lot of frills, but everything works as designed. Last one had 160,000 plus and we gave to our daughter. this one has 56,000 and hope to run it for years to come.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great family vehicle lots of room

    Meets all my needs plenty of room front and back great room for energetic kids to roam the car rides smooth great gas mileage drives smoothly
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Problematic

    A great minivan but it has its major issues. Fuel economy from this robust 4.2 L gives it plenty of power both in city and highway. The suspension is awesome and the creature comforts is amazing. Now the bad the transmissions on these are very problematic and one must maintain the vehicle to exact specifications.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 2.0
    3 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great van

    I have owned my 2006 ford for 7 years just replaced brakes and tune up 2600 in repairs Over all i love the van it now has 214000 kms and still has lots of life
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Gas mileage is great!

    So I just bought this van for my family, I love it. For the specs and comfort. I'm usually against ford but this van delivers. Silent engine, cheap on gas, compared to dodge 2006 and up I'm saving on gas 100%. I have the sports 4.2l very spacious dvd player ac everything works great and only 157000km and the transmission is great on the 2006...although I plan to take it easy on the tranny. Accelerate accordingly, shift gently...drive carefully and this will last longer than any caravan. Less bulky as well....almost got the odyssey but they rust faster and honestly the interior of odyssey isnt as comfortable. So ya I love it hope you do too! 2006 its a good deal...and if you have winters this baby heats up quick unlike dodge, honda, Kia...I could go on. So efficient I dont know why I didn't get a ford van before. I think they changed a lot after 2004 because the explorer xlt was nice too but not as efficient.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Good van

    Great but transmission is out and won't go in gear no recalls but only on 2004 and 2005 they need to look at the 2006s too mine went out on the highway
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 1.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • It has been very reliabily

    This car burns no oil very easy on gas drives great , rides good ,all in all very comfortable. why should it have too be 100 or more when a few words can say it all !!!!!!!!!!!!!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great for builders/carpenters as well as families

    I am a landlord/repairman and this vehicle holds 4 by 8 sheets of drywall or plywood and can haul most pieces of furniture due to a high ceiling. Two seat holders, that stick out, have been somewhat bothersome and should be made so that they can be flipped inwards. The middle seats are removable and back seat folds into the floor so that there is a large flat interior. The back is long enough that the van can be used as a camping van and a person can lie flat. When all seats are in place, the van can seat 7 adults comfortably. The back seats are easily accessed. Mechanical: My vehicle has almost 96,000 miles and I have not had a transmission issue. Most of my driving is on the highway so this may put less wear and tear on the transmission. My biggest problem has been with the air conditioner and I have put thousands of dollars in repairs to find the leak. My current plan is to replace the whole thing. The vehicle is supposed to get about 18 miles/gal.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • R. Proce

    Other than the transmission, great vehicle. It is a very useful mini-van. It has a large gas tank and doesn't use a lot of fuel.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Stay Away

    Wish this van was better due to it being roomy and nice inside. However..had only 60,000 miles and had to replace transmission and soon after that computer module. Stayed in garage for two months couldn't figure out why it wouldn't start until tech finally found out it was computer module. Now again had to replace it and it's still quitting on me for the fourth trip back to "re program reset codes"....I'm getting rid of it soon.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 1.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 1.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Ford dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2006 Ford Freestar?

The 2006 Ford Freestar is available in 3 trim levels:

  • Limited (1 style)
  • SE (1 style)
  • SEL (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2006 Ford Freestar?

The 2006 Ford Freestar offers up to 18 MPG in city driving and 24 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

Is the 2006 Ford Freestar reliable?

The 2006 Ford Freestar has an average reliability rating of 4.3 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2006 Ford Freestar owners.

Is the 2006 Ford Freestar a good Minivan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2006 Ford Freestar. 87.1% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.6 / 5
Based on 31 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.7
  • Interior: 4.4
  • Performance: 4.2
  • Value: 4.6
  • Exterior: 4.5
  • Reliability: 4.3
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