2007 Ford Freestyle Problems: 5 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2007 Ford Freestyle Problems: 5 Issues Every Owner Should Know | Au7o

All 5 Known Issues

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When Issues Typically Appear

Alternator Failure and Battery Drain

30K-100K

Fuel System Issues and Stalling

40K-60K

Power Steering Pump Whine and Leak

60K-90K

CVT Transmission Failure and Poor Acceleration

80K-120K

038K75K113K150K mi

Community Reported

350 owners

On the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle, the Ford Freestyle is subject to a significant safety issue where the vehicle surges or lunges forward unexpectedly at low speeds when in gear, even without the accelerator pedal being applied. The NHTSA investigated 238 complaints about this behavior, finding that a programming error in the engine computer causes the electronic throttle body to malfunction, particularly when the engine is under load from A/C operation, steering at full lock, or carrying heavy loads. In 18 reported cases, the surge caused accidents. Ford eventually issued a recall in December 2012 to reprogram the throttle body or replace it and reimburse owners who had already paid for the repair.

This issue also affects: Ford Explorer, Ford Transit, Ford Transit Connect

Common Symptoms

Vehicle lurches or surges forward at low speed without pressing the gas
Sudden unexpected acceleration while in a parking lot or at a stop
Surging is worse when the A/C is running
Surging occurs when the steering wheel is turned to full lock
Engine idles erratically or races when in gear
Check engine light with throttle position sensor codes

How to Fix

Contact your Ford dealer to verify the throttle body recall has been completed on your vehicle. If not, Ford will reprogram the throttle body control module or replace the throttle body assembly free of charge. If you already paid for a throttle body repair before the recall, contact Ford for reimbursement. Until the recall is completed, be especially cautious when the A/C is running and the steering wheel is turned sharply — these are the most common conditions that trigger the surge.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 350+ owners who fixed this issue

TipThe throttle body problem and the CVT transmission issues are often interrelated on the Freestyle. If your vehicle surges and also has hesitant acceleration, the throttle body reprogramming may improve both symptoms. Get the throttle body recall done first before pursuing transmission repairs.
UpgradeThrottle body cleaner can resolve hesitation and idle issues (CRC Throttle Body Cleaner)
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UpgradeReplacement throttle body for units with failed motors or sensors (Dorman Throttle Body Assembly)
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Typical repair cost:$0 - $500

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Community Reported

High Confidence350 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

Community Reported

320 owners

On the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle, the Ford Freestyle shares the same problematic ZF CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) as the Ford Five Hundred, and suffers from similar failure modes. The transmission develops poor acceleration, hesitation, stalling, and eventually complete failure, often around 80,000-120,000 miles. The CVT check engine light frequently illuminates as the transmission deteriorates. The manufacturer of the CVT no longer produces new units, making only rebuilt transmissions available at high cost. The Freestyle's heavier weight compared to the Five Hundred (due to its crossover body) puts even more stress on the CVT.

This issue also affects: Acura TL, Infiniti QX60, Acura ILX

Common Symptoms

Poor acceleration — vehicle feels sluggish and underpowered
Transmission hesitates or stumbles during acceleration
Check engine light illuminates with transmission codes
Vehicle stalls at low speed or when slowing down
Whining or droning noise from the transmission
Complete loss of drive — engine revs but vehicle does not move

How to Fix

Change CVT fluid every 30,000 miles with the correct CVT-specific fluid. If the transmission begins slipping or stalling, have speed sensors and solenoids tested first ($100-$300 for sensor replacement). For complete CVT failure, rebuilt units are available from specialty shops for $3,500-$5,500 installed. Some owners have opted to sell or trade the vehicle rather than invest in a CVT replacement, as the repair cost often exceeds the vehicle's value.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 320+ owners who fixed this issue

TipThe CVT in the Freestyle is the same problematic unit from the Five Hundred. Regular fluid changes every 30,000 miles are critical — use only CVT-specific fluid, never standard ATF. If you are quoted more than $4,000 for a CVT replacement, get quotes from dedicated transmission shops rather than the dealer.
TipIf the Freestyle has the AWD option, it came with a conventional Aisin 6-speed automatic instead of the CVT. AWD models are significantly more reliable. If shopping for a used Freestyle, only buy the AWD version.
UpgradeCVT fluid specifically formulated for continuous variable transmissions (Valvoline CVT Transmission Fluid)
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UpgradeReplacement CVT transmission filter to maintain fluid cleanliness (ATP CVT Transmission Filter Kit)
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Typical repair cost:$200 - $5,500

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320+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence320 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

Community Reported

230 owners

On the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle 3.0L Duratec V6, the Ford Freestyle is prone to fuel system problems that cause stalling, rough running, and loss of power. Issues include failing fuel pumps, contaminated fuel injectors, and fuel pressure regulator failures. The 3.0L Duratec V6 can experience stalling during deceleration or while idling, particularly in hot weather. The fuel pump relay in the fuse box can also fail intermittently, cutting fuel delivery without warning. These problems often overlap with the throttle body and CVT issues, making diagnosis challenging.

This issue also affects: Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Lexus IS, Audi A8

Common Symptoms

Engine stalls while decelerating or at idle
Difficulty starting the engine, especially when warm
Loss of power during acceleration
Rough idle with engine surging up and down
Fuel smell from the engine compartment

How to Fix

Have the fuel pressure tested under load — a weak fuel pump is the most common cause of stalling and should be replaced ($400-$700 including labor). Clean the fuel injectors with a professional cleaning service every 50,000 miles ($100-$200). Check the fuel pump relay in the fuse box if the vehicle stalls intermittently and restarts after sitting — a $10 relay swap can fix this. If the fuel pressure regulator is leaking (fuel smell from the engine bay), replace it ($150-$300).

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 230+ owners who fixed this issue

TipIf the Freestyle stalls randomly and restarts fine after a few minutes, try swapping the fuel pump relay in the fuse box first. It is a $10 part and takes 30 seconds. Many owners have spent hundreds on diagnosis when a simple relay swap fixed the intermittent stalling.
UpgradeDelphi fuel pump module — OE-quality direct replacement (Delphi Fuel Pump Module)
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UpgradeBosch fuel pump — reliable OEM alternative (Bosch Fuel Pump)
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UpgradeBosch fuel injector set — OEM replacement for precise fuel delivery (Bosch Fuel Injector)
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UpgradeChevron Techron fuel injector cleaner — restores injector flow (Chevron Techron Fuel Injector Cleaner)
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Typical repair cost:$100 - $700

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence230 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle, the power steering pump develops a loud whine and leaks fluid from the shaft seal or reservoir. Low fluid from the leak makes the whine worse and can lead to pump failure. Common after 60,000 miles.

Common Symptoms

Whining noise when turning
Power steering fluid leak
Heavy steering
Groaning at full lock

How to Fix

Replace the power steering pump and flush the system. Inspect all hoses and the steering rack for leaks. Use Mercon V as the power steering fluid per Ford spec.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeCardone remanufactured power steering pump — OE-spec (Cardone Power Steering Pump)
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UpgradePrestone power steering fluid — compatible with most systems (Prestone Power Steering Fluid)
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Typical repair cost:$200 - $500

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Medium Confidence0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle, the alternator fails prematurely on the 3.0L Duratec engine, often before 100,000 miles. The internal diode pack fails, which can also cause parasitic battery drain even when the vehicle is off.

Common Symptoms

Battery light on dashboard
Dead battery overnight
Dim headlights
Electrical accessories resetting

How to Fix

Replace the alternator. Test for parasitic draw after replacement to ensure the issue is fully resolved. Replace the serpentine belt if worn.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue

UpgradeHigh-performance AGM battery with excellent cold cranking amps and deep cycle capability (Optima RedTop AGM Battery)
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UpgradeOEM-quality replacement battery with reliable performance (ACDelco Professional AGM Battery)
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UpgradeAutomatic battery maintainer to prevent parasitic drain issues during storage (Battery Tender Junior 12V Battery Charger Maintainer)
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UpgradeOEM-quality remanufactured alternator with high output for reliable charging (Denso Remanufactured Alternator)
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UpgradePremium rebuilt alternator backed by extensive warranty coverage (Remy Premium Remanufactured Alternator)
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Typical repair cost:$250 - $500

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Community Reported

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Ford Freestyle problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 900+ owner reports, the 2007-2007 Ford Freestyle has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Throttle Body Malfunction and Unintended Forward Surge, CVT Transmission Failure and Poor Acceleration, Fuel System Issues and Stalling. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Ford Freestyle reliable?

The 2007-2007 Ford Freestyle has 5 known issues documented across 900+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Throttle Body Malfunction and Unintended Forward Surge and CVT Transmission Failure and Poor Acceleration. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Ford Freestyle problems?

Repair costs for known Ford Freestyle issues range from $0 to $5,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Throttle Body Malfunction and Unintended Forward Surge, typically costs $0-$500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle Throttle Body Malfunction and Unintended Forward Surge?

The Ford Freestyle is subject to a significant safety issue where the vehicle surges or lunges forward unexpectedly at low speeds when in gear, even without the accelerator pedal being applied. The NHTSA investigated 238 complaints about this behavior, finding that a programming… Repairs typically run $0-$500. Severity: high.

What is the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle CVT Transmission Failure and Poor Acceleration?

The Ford Freestyle shares the same problematic ZF CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) as the Ford Five Hundred, and suffers from similar failure modes. The transmission develops poor acceleration, hesitation, stalling, and eventually complete failure, often around 80,000-120… Repairs typically run $200-$5,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle Fuel System Issues and Stalling?

The Ford Freestyle is prone to fuel system problems that cause stalling, rough running, and loss of power. Issues include failing fuel pumps, contaminated fuel injectors, and fuel pressure regulator failures. The 3.0L Duratec V6 can experience stalling during deceleration or whil… Repairs typically run $100-$700. Severity: medium.

What is the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle Power Steering Pump Whine and Leak?

The power steering pump develops a loud whine and leaks fluid from the shaft seal or reservoir. Low fluid from the leak makes the whine worse and can lead to pump failure. Common after 60,000 miles. Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle Alternator Failure and Battery Drain?

The alternator fails prematurely on the 3.0L Duratec engine, often before 100,000 miles. The internal diode pack fails, which can also cause parasitic battery drain even when the vehicle is off. Repairs typically run $250-$500. Severity: medium.

2007 Ford Freestyle Problems: 5 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 5 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

2005-2007 Ford Freestyle: Throttle Body Malfunction and Unintended Forward Surge#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2007 Ford Freestyle: CVT Transmission Failure and Poor Acceleration#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2007 Ford Freestyle: Fuel System Issues and Stalling#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2007 Ford Freestyle: Power Steering Pump Whine and Leak#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2007 Ford Freestyle: Alternator Failure and Battery Drain#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Ford Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Ford Freestyle problems?

Is the Ford Freestyle reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Ford Freestyle problems?

What is the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle Throttle Body Malfunction and Unintended Forward Surge?

What is the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle CVT Transmission Failure and Poor Acceleration?

What is the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle Fuel System Issues and Stalling?

What is the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle Power Steering Pump Whine and Leak?

What is the 2005-2007 Ford Freestyle Alternator Failure and Battery Drain?