Ford Freestyle owners have reported 7 wheel related problems since 1996. Table 1 shows the 1 most common wheel problems. The number one most common problem is related to the vehicle's wheel (7 problems). For details of each of the problem category, use the links in the table.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Wheel problems |
Vehicles says awd malfunction and traction control sensor won't shut off while driving on highway. The power locks also malfunctioned shortly before the awd malfunction, making it where it was unable to shut. The power lock was unlocked/locked a couple times fixing the issue for now.
Tl- the contact owns a 2005 Ford Freestyle. The contact stated that while driving about 25 mph, the all-wheel malfunction light illuminated. The contact stated that about two weeks later, the check transmission light also illuminated. The contact called an unknown dealer who did not agree to take a look at the vehicle. The failures were not diagnosed or repaired . The manufacture was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 161,000. Fe.
My daughter was driving the car at the time and felt a large bang then shuddering with the vehicle becoming difficult to steer and losing control, veering off the road edge. She regained control and brought the car to a safe stop. She called me for assistance and I found the rear sub frame is inferior in construction and had extensive perforation inconsistent with the rest of the vehicle. This caused the rear control arm to separate from the sub frame. The rear wheel became unstable causing the vehicle to lose control. I have contacted Ford on the issue, they have recalls on the escape and windstar for the same problem. I have also found the same reports from other Freestyle owners. Ford refused to assist on the matter. This is a serious safety issue. This occurred at relatively low speed approx. 35 miles per our. Had this occurred at highway speeds my daughter may have been injured or killed.
Vehicle was discovered to have severe rust on front frame assembly drivers side during routine maintenance on today's date. It appears this has been an issue for some time and has just became painfully apparent. The corrosion/rust/deterioration occurs directly below an area where the air conditioning system dispenses later/condensation. Erosion to structural support is so bad it has eaten away bottom, sides and top of frame assembly. Sometimes known as an engine cradle. In order to replace, the engine must be moved and other front end components removed from vehicle. It is the opinion of complainant that this rust issue could result in a dangerous condition for the driver of the vehicle, the occupants of the vehicle as well as other motorists on the road and the general public. It is also the opinion of the complainant that this rust issue could result in the structural ability to suspend the engine. Possibly resulting in misalignment of key components or moving parts and could result in excessive wear and damage to other components of the automobile. It is also the opinion of the complainant that the rust issue and weakening of front end support members could possibly impact steering, tire life, tire pattern on roadway during hazardous conditions, etc. Ford motor company appears to have similar rust/chassis/frame issues on other models of vehicles after doing quick search online regarding this issue and comparing photographs. Ford motor company has issued recalls for other rust/frame/chassis issues, but not for the Ford Freestyle.
The contact owns a 2004 Ford Freestyle. The contact stated that while having regular maintenance done on the vehicle, she was advised that the rear wheel wells had become corroded. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was not available. The failure and current mileage was 88,000.
I was driving my 2005 Ford Freestyle on an interstate highway at approximately 72 mph. While driving on a straight section of highway and with both of my hands on the steering wheel, the vehicle suddenly went completely out of control. I tried desperately to straighten up and to control the car but it was useless. The vehicle went sideways and then started to spin out of control. The vehicle ended up in a berm on the side of the highway facing in the opposite direction. Only by the mercy and grace of god was our vehicle not struck by a passing vehicle or did our vehicle roll. We walked away from the accident with no injuries just thankful hearts. The vehicle was towed to a service station and the technician quickly diagnosed the problem as a broken lower left rear control arm support bracket. The control arm is what keeps the rear wheels from turning left or right. The lower control arm support bracket is what helps to keep the control arm in place. Upon further investigation after the accident we have identified a number of other vehicle owners who have experienced this same problem. The part is constructed with an inexpensive and weak grade of steel and is subject to damage.
Attention recall department::: date below is when started an has progressed during ownership of vehicle , this vehicles rims have broken down due to salty roads , causing tires to deflate while driving , though slowly it causes a hazard to driver, passenger, an others on the road, ? why would a design flaw of this type be allowed , it endangers all in an around while vehicle is being operated on the road . Aluminum wheels should not be a standard part on vehicles that are driven an bought in northern states were this conditions are a constant an this danger exsisits to the public , incidents that have occurred during drives consist of multiple blowouts , while taking my spouse to va doctor appointments coming out to find two or more tires without are requiring having to purchase tire inflater carried to air back up , but as time goes that doesn't work because of tire damage itself due to the lack of pressur lost in tires while driving wears them out to be replaced at an early wear time span . This problem I feel should lie with the manufacture . The hardships cause bye the area design is faulty, it's common knowledge that salt breaks down aluminum , to place aluminum wheels on a vehicle purchased in maine !! is like sending one of our service persons. To war with guns that back fire, thank you for your attention on this matter ,god bless , awaiting your reply for a safe resolution to a hazardous design .