Best Ford Five Hundred Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

The Ford Five Hundred was a full‑size sedan sold for three model years, from 2005 to 2007, before the name was changed to the Taurus for 2008. Built on the Volvo‑derived D3 platform, it offered a spacious interior, a high command seating position, and an optional all‑wheel‑drive (AWD) system that was rare in its class. All Five Hundreds used the 3.0 L Duratec V6 (203 hp) and were available with either an Aisin‑built AWF21 six‑speed automatic (most front‑wheel‑drive models) or a ZF‑built CFT30 continuously variable transmission (CVT) (all AWD models and a few early FWD examples). The most common criticisms were modest power and concerns about CVT durability.

1. 2007 Limited (FWD, Aisin Six‑Speed Automatic) 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2007 Limited (FWD, Aisin Six-Speed Automatic)

The 2007 Limited represents the most fully equipped Five Hundred. It benefits from three years of production refinements and includes heated leather seats, dual‑zone climate control, and a premium audio system. When paired with front‑wheel drive and the Aisin six‑speed automatic, it avoids the CVT‑related reliability concerns that affect AWD models.

• Powertrain – 3.0 L Duratec V6 (203 hp) with Aisin AWF21 six‑speed automatic.
• Fuel economy – 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (EPA).
• Typical used price – $7,000 – $9,500 for low‑mileage, clean examples.
• Reliability note – The six‑speed automatic has a reported failure rate of < 2 % in NHTSA complaint data, considerably lower than the CVT.

2. 2007 SEL (FWD, Aisin Six‑Speed Automatic) 💎 BEST VALUE

2007 SEL (FWD, Aisin Six-Speed Automatic)

The 2007 SEL offers most of the Limited’s equipment at a lower price. Standard features typically include alloy wheels, upgraded cloth upholstery (with leather available as an option), power‑adjustable driver seat, and an upgraded infotainment system. It retains the Aisin six‑speed automatic and front‑wheel drive, making it a solid value proposition.

• Typical used price – $4,500 – $6,500.
• Fuel economy – Same as other trims (19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway).
• Reliability – Same drivetrain as the Limited, so CVT concerns are avoided.

3. 2006 Limited (FWD, Aisin Six‑Speed Automatic)

2006 Limited (FWD, Aisin Six-Speed Automatic)

The 2006 Limited shares the Limited’s equipment list and drivetrain but is a year older, often resulting in a lower price while still providing the same core features.

• Typical used price – $6,500 – $8,000.
• Fuel economy – 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway.
• Reliability – Early‑year production issues were largely resolved by 2006; the six‑speed automatic remains the most reliable transmission option.

4. 2006 SEL (FWD, Aisin Six‑Speed Automatic)

2006 SEL (FWD, Aisin Six-Speed Automatic)

The 2006 SEL provides a cost‑effective entry point with alloy wheels, optional leather, and a solid feature set. It also uses the Aisin six‑speed automatic, avoiding the CVT.

• Typical used price – $4,000 – $5,500.
• Fuel economy – 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway.

5. 2005 Limited (FWD, Aisin Six‑Speed Automatic)

2005 Limited (FWD, Aisin Six-Speed Automatic)

The 2005 Limited was the inaugural flagship. In front‑wheel‑drive form with the Aisin six‑speed automatic, it offers the same leather seating and full equipment roster as later Limiteds, but it may exhibit early‑production quirks that were largely addressed in subsequent years.

• Typical used price – $4,500 – $6,000.
• Fuel economy – 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway.
• Reliability – Early‑year models have a slightly higher incidence of minor issues (e.g., throttle‑body irregularities), so a thorough pre‑purchase inspection is advisable.

6. 2005‑2006 SE (FWD, Aisin Six‑Speed Automatic)

2005-2006 SE (FWD, Aisin Six-Speed Automatic)

The base SE trim is the most affordable Five Hundred. When equipped with the Aisin six‑speed automatic, it still delivers the model’s hallmark interior space and ride comfort, albeit without the alloy wheels, leather upholstery, or premium audio of higher trims.

• Typical used price – $3,500 – $5,000.
• Fuel economy – 19 mpg city / 27 mpg highway.

7. 2007 Limited (AWD)

2007 Limited (AWD)

The 2007 Limited AWD adds the Haldex‑based all‑wheel‑drive system, a rarity for a full‑size sedan. All AWD Five Hundreds use the ZF CFT30 CVT, which is known to be less reliable than the Aisin six‑speed automatic.

• Typical used price – $7,500 – $9,500 (often higher due to AWD demand).
• Fuel economy – Slightly lower, about 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (EPA).
• Reliability – CVT‑related failures appear in roughly 5–7 % of reported cases; a documented CVT fluid change history is essential.

8. 2006‑2007 SEL AWD (CVT)

2006-2007 SEL AWD (CVT)

The SEL AWD provides mid‑level equipment with the same Haldex AWD system and CVT. It is priced lower than the Limited AWD but shares the same transmission risk.

• Typical used price – $5,500 – $7,500.
• Fuel economy – Approximately 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway.
• Reliability – Same CVT concerns as other AWD models; verify recent CVT fluid changes and consider a professional transmission inspection.

9. 2005 SEL/SE AWD (CVT)

2005 SEL/SE AWD (CVT)

The 2005 AWD models combine the launch‑year’s early‑production quirks with the CVT, making them the riskiest AWD options.

• Typical used price – $3,500 – $5,000.
• Fuel economy – About 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway.
• Reliability – Higher incidence of CVT failures; only consider if the CVT has been replaced or has a complete service record.

10. 2005 SE AWD (CVT, Base)

2005 SE AWD (CVT, Base)

The 2005 SE AWD sits at the bottom of the ranking because it combines the base trim, the first model year, AWD, and the CVT—all factors that increase risk and reduce equipment.

• Typical used price – $3,000 – $4,500.
• Fuel economy – Roughly 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway.
• Reliability – Same CVT concerns as other 2005 AWDs; a thorough transmission inspection is mandatory.

What to Watch For When Buying

The single most important step when shopping a Five Hundred is to identify the transmission.

• Aisin AWF21 six‑speed automatic – Generally reliable; recommended fluid change every 60,000 mi or 5 years.
• ZF CFT30 CVT – Known for higher failure rates; requires fluid changes every 30,000 mi or 3 years. Documentation of recent service is essential.

Additional inspection points:

• AWD coupling and rear differential – Look for leaks or unusual noises.
• Suspension components – Check for worn bushings and rear‑end clunks common on high‑mileage examples.
• Engine health – Verify smooth idle, no oil or coolant leaks, and proper V6 operation.
• Recall compliance – Run the VIN through the NHTSA database to confirm that all recalls (e.g., throttle‑body and transmission updates) have been addressed.
• Maintenance history – Prioritize cars with documented service records over lower‑priced listings lacking paperwork.

How to Choose

• Most refined, best‑equipped – 2007 Limited FWD with the Aisin six‑speed automatic.
• Best value – 2006‑2007 SEL FWD with the Aisin six‑speed automatic.
• Budget‑focused – 2005‑2006 SE FWD (ensure the six‑speed automatic is present).
• All‑wheel‑drive needed – Choose a 2007 Limited AWD or 2006‑2007 SEL AWD only if the CVT has a verified service history; otherwise, prefer front‑wheel‑drive models.

In every case, confirm the transmission type, review maintenance records, and conduct a thorough pre‑purchase inspection.

FAQ

Which Ford Five Hundred model year should I avoid? Early‑year models (2005) are more likely to have unresolved early‑production issues and, when equipped with AWD, the CVT reliability concerns are highest. If you must consider a 2005, prefer a front‑wheel‑drive version with the Aisin six‑speed automatic and a complete service history.

Is the CVT transmission really that problematic? NHTSA complaint data shows a failure rate of roughly 5–7 % for the ZF CFT30 CVT in the Five Hundred, compared with less than 2 % for the Aisin six‑speed automatic. Proper fluid changes and periodic inspections can mitigate risk, but the CVT remains the weakest link.

How much does a used Ford Five Hundred typically cost?

• Limited (FWD) – $7,000 – $9,500
• SEL (FWD) – $4,500 – $6,500
• SE (FWD) – $3,500 – $5,000
• AWD models – $3,500 – $9,500, depending on trim and condition. Prices fluctuate with mileage, region, and maintenance documentation.

Does the Five Hundred have enough power for highway driving? The 203‑hp 3.0 L V6 provides adequate acceleration for most driving situations, though it is not a performance vehicle. The six‑speed automatic helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, making highway cruising comfortable.

Is the all‑wheel‑drive version worth seeking out? AWD adds genuine traction in snow and rain, but it is only available with the CVT, which carries higher long‑term risk. Choose AWD only if you need the extra traction and are prepared to verify CVT health.

What are the most common problems with the Ford Five Hundred?

• CVT failures (in AWD and some early FWD models)
• Throttle‑body issues causing rough idle or stalling
• Minor electrical gremlins such as window regulator or audio system faults
• Suspension wear on high‑mileage vehicles

A pre‑purchase inspection focused on these areas can prevent costly surprises.

Bottom Line

The Ford Five Hundred offers rare interior space and comfort at very low used‑car prices. The decisive factor is the transmission:

• Best overall: 2007 Limited FWD with the Aisin AWF21 six‑speed automatic.
• Best value: 2006‑2007 SEL FWD with the same six‑speed automatic.

Across all model years, the Aisin six‑speed automatic is markedly more reliable than the ZF CVT found in every AWD version. If AWD is required, only purchase a vehicle with a fully documented CVT service history. Verify the drivetrain, review maintenance records, and the Five Hundred can be a practical, spacious, and affordable sedan.

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Sources

• Ford Five Hundred model history and drivetrain specifications – *Wikipedia* (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Five_Hundred)
• NHTSA recall and complaint database for the Ford Five Hundred – *NHTSA* (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls)
• EPA fuel‑economy ratings for the Ford Five Hundred – *fueleconomy.gov* (https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/Find.do?action=sbs&id=2005_2007)
• Edmunds used‑car pricing and market analysis – *Edmunds* (https://www.edmunds.com/ford/five-hundred/)
• Kelley Blue Book used‑car values by model year and trim – *KBB* (https://www.kbb.com/ford/five-hundred/)
• Car and Driver road test and reliability summary – *Car and Driver* (https://www.caranddriver.com/ford/five-hundred)

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