Ford Freestyle - Taurus X

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Comments

  • nitromaxnitromax Member Posts: 640
    Now if anyone can tell me what oil filter number to buy, I would be happy. I couldn't find it in the manual, but I do now know where the engine block heater electrical plug hides (lower front grill, driver's side, under a hinged cap).

    LOL
    If it's a Ford, it must be PH8A (Fram)

    Just kidding...the reason I say that part number is because ALL of my Fords used that filter!
    97 Explorer (maybe I'm wrong on this one, but I think it was)
    94 Ranger
    88 Bronco II
    87 Mustang
    80 Mercury Capri
    71 Mustang

    ph8a.....ph8a...ph8a.....it's ingrained in my subconscious
    :-)
  • crscrs Member Posts: 17
    It does actually take the Fram PH8A like most Fords for the last many decades. I however used the Ford Motorcraft filter that "is" specified in the manual. It is something like a FL-820S. I have only ever used Fram filters but have now switched to the Motorcraft because I heard they perform better and they are a touch cheaper. I also don't like the black grip stuff they put on the bottom of Fram filters these days. When I take them off the black stuff is all bubbly and gets everywhere and I don't want to take the chance of getting that loose grit in my engine.
  • badgerfanbadgerfan Member Posts: 1,565
    For what it is worth, I have a 2000 Taurus SES with the 3.0 Duratech. I've been using non synthetic 5W30 since day one as 5w30 was recommended oil for that engine in 2000. I am now at 46K miles and it does not use a drop of oil between changes. Since I change my oil myself and thus it costs me less than $10 a change for oil and filter, I am conservative and change every 3K miles. Can't hurt!

    Unless they changed the filter on the Freestyle from the Duratech Taurus, mine is Motorcraft FL-80S or FL820S, if I remember correctly. Don't have the book accessible at the moment so I am working off my sometimes faulty memory.

    I am not advocating going against what is in your Freestyle manual for oil recommendations, however. Recent imdustry trends have been to recommend lighter and lighter weight oils, and I suspect it is more for improving vehicle fuel efficiency ratings rather than any improvements in engine life.

    And yes it does take a full 6 quarts, maybe even a bit more to get it to the top of the crosshatched full range on the dipstick.

    3.0 Duratech is a very good engine, from my experience so far.
  • lumber2lumber2 Member Posts: 184
    Motorcraft is probably made by Wix or Fram. I think Napa own brand are Wix units. These supplier decisions can change quickly.
  • skovatchskovatch Member Posts: 24
    > The only differences noted were optional rear heated and cooled seats and an available navigation system.

    Where did you read this? Do you have a link? This information alone is enough to make me wait for the 2006 model year. I drove a Limited a couple of weeks ago, and was very impressed, though I decided I would probably get an SEL with slate leather. There's no factory XM option, so I plan on putting a Sony stereo in it, but that would likely be much more difficult with a built-in navigation system if it's integrated with the factory stereo much like the Escape Hybrid.
  • nitromaxnitromax Member Posts: 640
    I am not advocating going against what is in your Freestyle manual for oil recommendations, however. Recent imdustry trends have been to recommend lighter and lighter weight oils, and I suspect it is more for improving vehicle fuel efficiency ratings rather than any improvements in engine life.

    Keep in mind that the oils contribution to fuel efficiency is directly related to friction. The less friction there is the better the fuel efficiency ...BUT...less friction also brings less heat and less particulation....which results in better lubrication.

    I think they are able to drop the oil weight because lubrication properties of oil have improved.
    My opinion only though.
  • jethrojacksonjethrojackson Member Posts: 33
    I've been reading mixed info regarding the front passenger seat. Does the Limited front passenger seat with leather and 4 way power fold flat?

    If not, any word if the 2006 Limited will?

    Thanks! :)
  • badgerfanbadgerfan Member Posts: 1,565
    That is exactly what I was implying. Lower viscosity oils result in less friction and thus better engine efficiency due to reduced frictional losses.

    And lubrication properties are also always increasing. The API mimum standard is up to what SL now or is it SM, SN or what.? Seems they change about yearly, and I assume the changes are for the better, so an older engine should reap the benefits of ever improving oil over its life.
  • bruneau1bruneau1 Member Posts: 468
    Did you get your Freestyle back and is all well with the transmission? Good Luck.
  • northlakesnorthlakes Member Posts: 368
    Thanks for the input. The 2.5 L Duratec engine in the Contours and Mystiques takes a Fram PH2 (Motorcraft FL-1?) oil filter. The one on the 3.0 L Freebie looks smaller (and easier to get at). I will check out the FL- numbers you gave.

    Motor oil weight has been dropping. Some of it is enabled by tighter engine tolerances. If the viscosity is too low, you can lose oil pressure, so there is a tradeoff between lower engine resistance with thinner oil, and protection. :shades:
  • badgerfanbadgerfan Member Posts: 1,565
    I have always stayed with the Motorcraft filters on my Duratech Taurus as they are inexpensive, and more importantly, I bought a cap wrench that fits on the flutes on the end of the Motorcraft filter. The cap wrench is the only easy way to get a filter wrench on my Duratech as the filter is tucked up into a fairly tight area, so a strap wrench is unusable.
  • sac ltd awdsac ltd awd Member Posts: 12
    "Does the Limited front passenger seat with leather and 4 way power fold flat? "

    Yes, it sure does.
  • njdevilsrnnjdevilsrn Member Posts: 185
    Hello all, I've been watching this board for a while, and have a question about the seating size in the Freestyle.

    I am 6'4" and about 290lbs. Can anyone comment on the room (head, leg, driving position) for someone of my size?

    PS...Went to local dealers, nobody has a Freestyle in the showroom so I could sit (don't feel like dealing with a salesman just to sit in the car at this point - looking for 2006-2007 vehicle).
  • jpc99jpc99 Member Posts: 20
    If your cd player is giving you the bad disk or just plain ignoring your cd's see this article. It appears that ford will replace your player between these build dates.

    http://www.blueovalnews.com/2005/advisory/cdplayer.18mar05.htm
  • lumber2lumber2 Member Posts: 184
    I'm 6-3 240 ok 245lbs, no problems even with sunroof. Hope thats close enough
    However going without a sunroof is recommended as the interior mirror becomes useless if you have one. The bump with switches on is all you'll see.
  • ranger2001xltranger2001xlt Member Posts: 85
    ANT,

    The 2.5 Liter D5 is a diesel, there is no premium fuel. Just the junky stuff they sell America which is leftover from making gasoline.

    I think people would realize a 5 cylinder diesel engine is an upgrade to a normal gas V6 and would of spent their money for it. It would of been a good marketing move to combat the Liberty CRD.
  • odie6lodie6l Member Posts: 1,173
    Same here, 6'3" 290lbs, Was very comfortable in the Freestyle. And I even had it on a 45 min test drive over different road types.

    Odie
  • ANT14ANT14 Member Posts: 2,687
    yes the 2.5L Diesel. Issue is, americans haven't yet embraced diesel technology just yet. Although, Ford has implemented a "team" that research the possibilities of such engines in N.A.
  • lumber2lumber2 Member Posts: 184
    the ford/peugeot 2.7 liter twin-turbo V6 diesel engine with 206bhp at 4,000 rpm; 320 lb ft torque at 1,900 rpm (jag Tune) would definitely satisfy US buyers with all that torque.Engine is also used in Land Rover LR3.
  • jschreiberjschreiber Member Posts: 50
    Great room for our 55 pound german shorthaired pointer with seats down
    crate easily fits as well but we've just put the bed inthe back and no problem
    I've had a minivan in past--this is almost as good for dog and drives much better
  • badgerfanbadgerfan Member Posts: 1,565
    The Duratech on my Taurus takes a Motorcraft FL-820s, however I checked the Motorcraft web site for 2205 Freestyle and FIve Hundred and they have not yet listed a Motorcraft filter. Probably they just haven't updated their web site, though it may be an indication that Ford has a new or different filter for the Duratech in these new vehicles.

    Your owners manual should list the filter size somewhere, however. I was fairly impressed with the owners manual for my Taurus, as it had complete listing for all filters, lightbulbs part numbers, etc. Even had complete instructions for accessing and replacing the cabin inlet air filter under the windshield cowl.
  • northlakesnorthlakes Member Posts: 368
    Thanks again. I went through the two-volume shop manual last night but found no oil filter spec, but I did go to RockAuto.com. They show a Fram PH2 for the Freebie and 500 (just like my 2.5 liter Duratec). No Motorcraft filters on their site for the Freebie.

    I have not looked in the one obvious place, the sticker on the Freebie doorframe. It is probably there next to the EPA calibration and tire pressure info. Or under the hood...., or... :shades:
  • jethrojacksonjethrojackson Member Posts: 33
    sac ltd awd said "Yes, it sure does"

    How exactly do you do it?
  • crscrs Member Posts: 17
    As I posted a few posts ago. The oil filter required for the Freestyle is specified in the Freestyle's owners manual as a FL-820s.
  • ranger2001xltranger2001xlt Member Posts: 85
    Yes lumber2,

    That Jag engine would be the best diesel fit. I think the D5 has less Horsepower but around the same torque. However it only has to push around a 3700# Volvo XC70. I think I read the AWD Freestyle was in excess of 4200#.

    Oh well, I can only hope this diesel colaboration team ANT mentions decides to make a move soon. At least in one of their family vehicles. Too bad the Liberty CRD doesn't have a third row seat.
  • figueroafamilyfigueroafamily Member Posts: 223
    My, have I been out for a while.

    On the back of the passenger front, there's a strap loop similar to the straps on the third row's back. Seen from the second row, it's to the right near the swivel joint for the backrest portion of the seat. Once you pull it, the seat folds down.

    I must note, to fully fold flat you may have to move the seat backwards. Sometimes the backrest will stop at the dash.

    The Figgie Freebie is 6,300 miles and we're loving it! (My wife mostly. =(

    Sam ;)
  • ecbmp1ecbmp1 Member Posts: 19
    I noticed that on my ltd awd, when I turn a/c and set it to blow from the dash vents, I can still feel it blowing underneath over my feet. It is not as strong below compared to setting the vent to blow below only or below &above, but still I've never seen cars doing it. Anyone else has the same? Is it a problem or a "feature"?
  • northlakesnorthlakes Member Posts: 368
    CRS, Thanks for reiterating your point. I did find the oil filter mentioned on page 267 of the owner's manual. :shades:
  • figueroafamilyfigueroafamily Member Posts: 223
    I have a few suggestions for next year's Freebie. They shouldn't be that hard.

    Adjust the rearview mirror. Whether it goes down an inch or the console goes up one, or mix thereof, just move it. It's really annoying to see the console on the mirror when you want to see cars.
    Put a light on the wiper controls. I personally didn't like having to guess by feel which of the two identical knobs on the wiper control arm is the one I want. Reminds me of the unlighted cruise control switches on our Windstar.
    Make the second row bench adjustable. I don't think sharing the same mechanism +/- a lever can dramatically increase costs, etc. While I'm at it,
    Could the third row be adjustable? A little back-forth control could go a long way. This is even more so with the 50/50 row.
    Add a fold-IN armrest on the second row. My '96 Contour's back bench had such a feature. It is flush with the backrest when closed, and an armrest when open. It's perfect for when you want both arms resting couch-style, or to keep siblings from Mutual Assured Destruction. =) Of course, cupholders that pop-out from it when open are equally welcome.
    Put the third 12Vdc power point on the outside. It's not as useful inside the console.

    Feel free to vote, add your own, etc.

    Of course, recommendations on how to tell Ford personnel are welcome. Any ideas, ANT14?

    Sam ;)
  • njdevilsrnnjdevilsrn Member Posts: 185
    Thanks for your replies - the Freestyle is definitely on my short list of vehicles considering as a replacement for my 2000 Exploder.

    Full size SUV was the "dream car" - but between price of the vehicle and new gas prices, this looks like it may be a better choice.
  • sj freebiesj freebie Member Posts: 22
    " I can still feel it blowing underneath over my feet."

    Our SEL FWD does that too no matter where you set the controls. And, it seems to always feel cold. We'd like it to not do that. Haven't brought it up to the dealer yet. We were waiting for the first service at 5000 miles.
  • willie19willie19 Member Posts: 139
    Thanks for starting the ball rolling for the 2006 Freebie changes.
    I also would like to see Electronic Stability Control added and also since I'm looking forward to the '06 Limited FWD I hope Ford will stick to the 18" wheels originally offered and not the "rumored" substituted 17" if and when they decide to have a late run of '05 Limited FWDs.
    And finally to keep MSRP increase under 2% if rebates are not offered.
  • kbrown2kbrown2 Member Posts: 7
    Yes and so far so good. Perhaps this solenoid is truly the fix. I have read however that some people have this happen and go severval thousand miles without it happening again. Time will tell.
  • crscrs Member Posts: 17
    Sam,

    I really like the power point in the console. Have you noticed the groove in the console that allows the charger wire to come out of it with the lid shut? We keep our cell phone charger plugged into it at all times with just the end of the wire sticking out. When we charge our phone we sit it in front of the console in the recessed area and plug it in. Very convenient and less clutter some than using the power point it the dash.

    I don't understand the rear view mirror problem. Is it only if you have the sunroof? I don't have the sunroof and don't have any problems with it.

    I agree with everything else you suggested. I think that the 2nd row bench would be easy to make adjustable but I don't think the third row ever would be.

    I would also like a power point in the back of the front console for the second row. Right now there is 2 for the first row and 1 for the third but none for the second.

    I would also like to see a remote powered rear hatch like the Pacifica. That was the only feature that I like on the pacifica that wasn't on the Freestyle.

    And also a limited that is front wheel drive with grey interior and the two tone silver paint. I was forced to buy an SEL because those features were more important to me than some of the step up options that I would have liked on the limited.
  • lumber2lumber2 Member Posts: 184
    Sunroof makes the inside mirror useless. can't see out. If I bite then its a sunroofless vehicle only.

    Color: I'd like Silver Ltd for 06.
    Anyone know when Ford will release 06 spec information to dealers?
    Up here in Boston area, titanium green and black cars are sitting like logs on dealer floors.
  • northlakesnorthlakes Member Posts: 368
    Just to add to the list, stereo input jacks on the dash for my iPod, or other auxiliary audio device would be my wish (OK, USB port might be nice so that I can control the iPod from the steering wheel). :shades:
  • figueroafamilyfigueroafamily Member Posts: 223
    Yes. That's why I talk about adjusting the height. I'm only 5'6", and I see console on the mirror.

    Sam :)
  • figueroafamilyfigueroafamily Member Posts: 223
    Interesting points. Ford, bring thy ear closer! =).

    I didn't notice that. I though the outlet inside the console wouldn't be usable if you put CDs and the like. I'll check the dimensions this weekend.

    The third outlet on back is set to be a jack of all trades for both rows. The Freestar/Monterey have the same location.

    I agree with your second row idea. In fact, designers should think of power points as they do with cupholders. With bluetooth, DVD players, and so many other things that need you to use outlets, why are they missing it?

    Sam ;)
  • freestylegalfreestylegal Member Posts: 70
    Wish list:
    The power point buried in the console doesn't work for me because I keep CDs in there. Sometimes, I have to charge my computer and my phone at the same time and I either have to set one of them up way in the back or empty out my console. Messy with CDs sliding all over the front seat; I need to figure something else out for that.

    I would like the ability to lock the car from the back like you can with the Explorer and Expedition. It was right by the rear hatch--hit the lock button and slam the lid--good to go.

    The hatch takes a good bit o' muscle to push down and the handholds (itty bitty finger dents) are nigh onto useless. I'm in and out of the hatch 10x per day and it's a pain (literally).

    I agree with the person who suggested lights on the wiper stalk--that would be nice.

    Overall, I'm really happy with the car and with the gas prices going up a mile a minute, I'm VERY happy not to have my Expedition anymore. All the cargo space of the Expedition and since I didn't need to tow anything or take it offroad, it didn't make much sense for me to have it other than there was no such thing as a Freestyle when I bought the Expedition in 2003 (actually bought it at end of 2002).

    Maybe it's just the kind of stuff I put in the car, but the plastic seems to scratch and gouge really easy. Anyone else noticed this?

    8,700 miles and still loving it!
  • drcherdrcher Member Posts: 7
    I had been impatiently waiting for my custom ordered FWD Limited but since there was still a hold and we needed the car by April, my hubby convinced me to get the "bottom of the line" model (one in stock with 300 miles and was 8 grand cheaper). Well, I couldn't be happier with our decision! I got a SE FWD titanium green with pebble cloth interior. no upgrades. just basic. the most inexpensive Freebie made. I am SO glad that I didn't spend the extra money because I am just thrilled to get what I have! It is awesome! (not that I wouldn't love leather and DVD, but I mean I am fine without it). I can't believe how great this car is. As I said before, I was scared and sad to give up my Land Rover Disco for this. I can say that I don't miss it for a second. I have never loved driving something so much! Great gas milage on the FWD, two kids under two who love the view, still sit high, so great looking. We got the bucket seats in second row with no console. thought i wanted the console but with two little ones in car seats it is better not to have it. easier to get in 3rd row this way. we are saving so much money in gas (better MPG and lower octane) however, we are driving more than ever! We are now taking road trips, never wanted to do it before.

    We live in Fallon, NV and I haven't seen one here or in Reno. Got ours from a dealer in Roseville, the best experience I have ever had. They delivered it over the Sierra's right into our small town. Did everything over the phone (Zplan). Got the Red Carpet lease (but will probably buy it out). I love it! Thanks for all your advice, will keep you all updated if any problems arise (I hope not!)
  • nitromaxnitromax Member Posts: 640
    I would like the ability to lock the car from the back like you can with the Explorer and Expedition. It was right by the rear hatch--hit the lock button and slam the lid--good to go.

    Can't you just hit the lock button on the key fob?

    (or did you leave the keys in the ignition?)
    :-)
  • pnewbypnewby Member Posts: 277
    At 5'9", I don't have a problem with my mirror and the sunroof, but the DVD player does block slightly when closed and completely when open.
    I use a 3 port outlet with a cord and leave it plugged in the console power outlet. I find it much handier than past cars that had the outlet on the outside. Had the Garmin GPS in the dash outlet, Escort passport and 2 cell phones plugged in the multiplier, nothing in the back. Guess it's a good thing I don't use the CB radio any more.
    After thinking I had the only Freestyle in town, I saw 3 others yesterday, and the local dealers actually have some to sell now.
    My son returned home from Iraq yesterday and actually liked it, that's after I traded a Lincoln LS in, and he drives a souped up Mustang GT convertible.
  • jjayjjay Member Posts: 28
    Congratulations on the return of your son from Iraq - I'm sure it's a joyful time for you!
  • freestylegalfreestylegal Member Posts: 70
    "Can't you just hit the lock button on the key fob?"

    Hi nitromax,
    I'm always so loaded down with equipment to carry, plus I work with kids with special needs, most of whom really love car keys. They hid them so good one time that I didn't find them until the teacher moved out of her classroom a year later. So, the keys need to stay in the console. Perhaps my needs are too specific to be of interest to Ford, but they do have that feature on all the other SUVs so I'm thinking I'm not too weird :blush:
  • freestylegalfreestylegal Member Posts: 70
    Congrats on your purchase. Yeah, the really important stuff is the same on all models. I'm still amazed at the heavy sales of the highest-end one. I got a loaded SEL and I do like all the goodies (I didn't get a DVD , sunroof, or bun-warmer--not available and not at all missed). I guess at some point you have to decide how long you want to wait and make your decision. After-market DVDs will work fine, I'm sure or maybe do sing-alongs. That's what we did on road trips and I don't think any of us suffered permanent damage. I was worried about giving up Shamu, my white Expedition, too, but no regrets at all for me, either.

    You probably won't see many of yourself driving down the road. I've still seen so few that it is an event when I do see one (well, for me at least). I've driven all over the SFO Bay Area (8,500 miles worth since January) and I've never seen one on the road, only one in a parking lot. It's so odd driving something that so few people have. Coming off a long line of Explorers, Expeditions, Escorts, etc., I feel sooooo special :shades:

    You and the kids have fun!
  • northlakesnorthlakes Member Posts: 368
    FSG, I can see logic in your wish for a rear gate lock button on the Freebie. Another reason can be winter.

    In the land of snow and ice, with winter gloves on, it is a challenge to have an arm or two full of packages, close the hatch (which is doable with a gloved hand), and fumble the key fob out of your pocket again (after dropping it into your pocket when you exited the driver's door) just to lock the Freebie from the rear - without dropping the key fob in the snow. If you drop it, you then put your packages down (in the snow?) to look for your keys. The fob buttons are also very small to a gloved finger and it is hard to tell if you are pressing correctly, so you fumble with it a bit at times. It is not uncommon to remove a glove sometimes to be more efficient about it - but glove removal is a challenge if your other arm is full of things. Besides, the snow eats keys until Spring around here.

    These are just little things that can make the Freebie more pleasurable IMHO. :shades:
  • freestylegalfreestylegal Member Posts: 70
    northlakes,
    Lord have mercy! I'm sooooo glad I live where it doesn't snow! I would say that a lock in the back would be especially welcome for anyone in that situation. Thanks--now I'm not feeling like I'm quite so weird. I always wonder about how a car company comes up with the options and combinations of things that they put in cars. Sometimes some things that get left off seem so obvious.

    My brother lives in Vermont and drives a Subaru (I guess it was the only AWD you could get for some while). He says they get 9 months of winter and 3 months of very poor sledding. Yuck. Anyway, he's coming out here next week and I'm really anxious to see what he thinks of the Freestyle. I don't have AWD but now that it's available on an American car, maybe I can convert him! He's bringing his new baby/car seat/assorted piles of other stuff that come along with a new baby and I'm sure he'll appreciate the space.

    Hey anotherwagon--no hear from you for awhile. Hope all is well.

    All y'all have a great weekend!
  • preferbicyclespreferbicycles Member Posts: 33
    I agree that having a rear door lock button is a good thing--we had one on our Windstar and
    I do miss it a bit. However, I do have a possible solution: Take an extra keyfob (either your second or you can get another) and velcro it to whatever spot in back seems convenient. Instant rear button.
  • jjayjjay Member Posts: 28
    Interesting article in today's Chicago Tribune business section on Ford. Ford says it is keeping to its planned production for the Mustang, the Freestyle and the 500. It says that despite the high level of demand for each of these vehicles, they are going to stick to the planned production and not offer the rebates that they have had to in the past for over produced vehicles. This should certainly have a good impact on the resale value of the Freestyle. The article can also be found online.
  • freestylegalfreestylegal Member Posts: 70
    "Take an extra keyfob (either your second or you can get another) and velcro it to whatever spot in back seems convenient. Instant rear button."

    preferbicyles,

    That is BRILLIANT! I'm going to snag my husbands because he has a keyfob for his F-150 and two on one keychain is one too many so he just has the Freestyle key because the Freebie is MINE :P
    Nope--I don't have a keyfob for his truck, either.

    Thank you--you are a clever person!
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