Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations
Scheduled Maintenance:
Tune-ups, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, fluid flush intervals
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom analysis
Repair And Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement
Overhaul And Rebuild:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures with specifications
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced: Includes diagnostic flowcharts, DTC explanations, and component testing procedures
๐ Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Print Quality
Resolution:
High-resolution for clear diagrams and text
Printability:
Fully printable for workshop use
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Compatibility
Operating Systems:
Windows and macOS compatible
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
AJ35 (Duratec 35)
Engine Type:
3.0L V6, DOHC, 24-valve
Performance
Horsepower:
203 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque:
207 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)
Engine Management
Engine Control Module:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module)
๐ง Transmission
Standard
Type:
6-Speed Automatic (AX4N / 4F50N)
Optional
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Features
Shift Control:
Electronic, with Overdrive
Fluid Specifications
Transmission Fluid:
MERCON V Automatic Transmission Fluid
Fluid Capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 13.3 US quarts (12.6 liters) total
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
200.4 inches (5090 mm)
Width:
74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
56.5 inches (1435 mm)
Wheelbase:
114.5 inches (2908 mm)
Interior
Passenger Volume:
105.2 cubic feet (2.98 mยณ)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
16.1 cubic feet (0.456 mยณ)
Weights
Curb Weight FWD:
3700 lbs (1678 kg)
Curb Weight AWD:
3870 lbs (1755 kg)
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
โ โ โ โ โ (5 Stars)
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
โ โ โ โ โ (5 Stars)
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
โ โ โ โ โ (4 Stars)
NHTSA Side Passenger Impact:
โ โ โ โ โ (4 Stars)
IIHS Front Overlap:
Good
IIHS Side Impact:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability:
Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - known as AdvanceTrac
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual-stage front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Optional side-curtain airbags (for front and rear passengers)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, pretensioners, load limiters
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional Audiophile Sound System with 6-disc CD changer and amplifier.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard speed-sensitive cruise control.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard, may have been added aftermarket or on very late models as an option.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) under ideal conditions with synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (typically iridium-tipped plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-97,000 km), consult owner's manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (Synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended for best performance and protection)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (VC-7 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
MERCON V or equivalent power steering fluid
Known Issues
Transmission Problems:
Some reports of rough shifting, delayed engagement, or transmission fluid leaks. Proper fluid maintenance is critical.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration and clunking noises.
Suspension Components:
Wear in control arm bushings and sway bar links can cause clunks and steering looseness.
Cv Axle Boots:
Tears in CV axle boots can lead to premature axle wear if not addressed.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Ford Motor Company
Market Introduction:
Introduced as a new model for the 2005 model year
Model Evolution
Platform Sharing:
Utilized the Volvo-derived D3 platform, also used for the Ford Freestyle and Mercury Montego
Name Change:
Replaced by the Ford Taurus for the 2008 model year, with the 500's styling cues incorporated.
Production
Production Span:
2004 - 2007
Total Units Produced:
Approximately 158,000 units (all model years combined)
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Award:
Named to Car and Driver's '10Best' list for 2005.
Ratings
Consumers Reports Rating:
Varied ratings over its production life, with some praise for ride comfort and interior space, but common criticism for transmission performance and overall reliability by some consumer organizations.