Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Ford Five Hundred
Ford Five Hundred Models:
Ford Five Hundred Problems
Harsh or Delayed Shifting of Automatic Transmission
The automatic transmission may develop shifting concerns. On lower mileage vehicles, upgrading the software in the powertrain control module (PCM) and the transmission control module (TCM) may correct the problem. As the mileage increases, internal transmission damage can occur. Repairs could involve replacement of the valve body or a complete transmission rebuild. Whenever major transmission repairs are made, it is important to be sure the PC...
Rear Brakes Wear Out Abnormally Fast
If the rear brakes wear out abnormally fast, this can be caused by defective rear brake pads. The rear wheels may also appear to become excessively dusty. They should be replaced with revised brake pads, and all wheel drive (AWD) vehicles should replace front brake pads as well.
Check Engine Light and Poor Throttle Response
A defective electronic throttle body (ETB) can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and could have limited to no throttle response. Our technicians tall us that replacing the electronic throttle body will commonly correct this concern.
Transmission Shifter is Hard To Move
Binding of the shifter slider can make the transmission shifter difficult to move. Replacing the bezel should fix this problem.
Coolant Leakage from Heater Core, Possible Leakage onto Passenger Side Foot Well
Electrolysis can cause repeated failures of the heater core and radiator. The diagnosing technician should check for voltage present in the coolant, with the battery disconnected, because electrical current in the coolant causes electrolysis. Corroded or deteriorated parts should be replaced, and the coolant should be flushed. Ground straps can be added to help prevent future corrosion of components.
Ford Five Hundred Recalls (Recent)
Door Latch May Freeze In States With Cold Weather
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The side door latches may freeze in cold weather due to water intrusion. As a result, the door may not latch when closed, and could open while the vehicle is moving. Dealers will install a shield over the front door latches and seal a drain hole in the rear window molding on the Freestyle rear side doors. Grease will also be applied to all the latch mechanisms free of charge. The recall began November 8, 2006. The Ford recall number is 06S45.
The following states are named in the recall: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, And Wyoming
Learn more »Potential Fuel Leak at Fuel Tank
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Some fuel tanks may not have consistent welds between the fuel tank and the fuel filler neck, affecting the strength of the joint. In the event of a severe rear impact, an improper weld can result in a crack in the joint. This could illuminate the Check Engine Light, cause a fuel odor, or allow fuel to leak out. Any fuel leak increases the risk of a fire. Dealers will replace the affected fuel tanks to correct this concern. This recall is scheduled to begin on August 15, 2011. The Ford recall number is 11S20.
Learn more »Fuel Tank Straps May Break
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The straps securing the fuel tank to the vehicle may break, allowing the fuel tank and heat shield to drop onto either the driveshaft or exhaust, depending on the model. If this happens, drivers may hear a noise or notice a fuel leak. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire. Dealers will replace both fuel tank straps. The recall began December 1, 2005. The Ford recall number is 05S37.
Learn more »Ford Five Hundred Questions and Answers
Should my Ford 500 still be under warranty for compressor repairs if it has 79,000 miles?
If the threads on the oil pan get worn,and putting in a new drain pulg doesn't work(oil leaks),how expensive is it to replace the oil pan? I understand that the exhaust system has to be removed in...
Needs plugs and boots replaced
We recently had the engine in our Ford 500 replaced. The car had only 50,000 miles and the fuel injector failed and overloaded a cylinder causing damage to the rod and crankshaft.
We now have 200...
i got codes for p0109 p0191 p0171 they all point to something with the air intake what would be the first thing to check?
Ford Five Hundred Stories
Bought my Five Hundred new in 2005. Have 62,000 miles on it. Had the rear breaks fixed at 30,000 miles under recall. Just had the front brakes rotor and pads at 62,000 miles. Had the AC issue this past summer. Other than normal maintenance such as 4 tires and new battery I haven't had any other issues
Would love to get a Ford Fusion but it isn't in the budget.
I like my 500 even though I have spent enough on it to own two. It handles really well and the ride is good but could be more quiet. My peeves are as fallows. The transmission is a 6speed auto and it totaly sucks. Started shifting hard ball. Ford mech said it needed a new throthle body valve. Big bucks. Next the A/C petered out, needs compressor, wham! more big bucks. Next I hit garbage in road, broke gas tank strap and cracked tank. More big bucks. Brakes have been great, only replaced once, 150,000plus. Tires once also. Tail light goes out often??? weered. Had to replace front headlight plug in, old one was fried some how. Replaced battery twice. Handle for lumbar seat broke off with touch of a finger. Still like the ole car, engine seams to hold up well and no problems with abs. No other problems come to mind.
I love my 500 the ac went out like many and had to replace the cooling sensor it is a 40 dollar piece do not let the mechanics fool you into thinking you need a compressor
I love my Ford 500! My in-laws love theirs, too! I have over 122,000 miles on mine. I have always taken it to the dealership for its scheduled maintenance. I live in WV and have taken it as far Northeast as Massachusetts, as far south as Florida, as far west as Indianapolis and most points in between. I have had trouble with rear turn signal bulbs burning out seems like too frequently after initial bulbs went out, other than that, normal maintenance! My gas mileage is 24 - 30, depending on terrain, naturally. Again, I love my 500!
A solid car for the money. With almost 90,000 miles on this vehicle, it still runs and looks great. The engine may be under powered slightly but, it rides great and travels well.