Best Ford Five Hundred Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

1. 2007 Limited FWD Aisin Six-Speed

The 2007 Limited with front-wheel drive and the Aisin six-speed automatic ranks first because it combines the final production year's refinements with the most reliable transmission option. It includes heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and a premium audio system as standard equipment. The 3.0-liter Duratec V6 produces 203 horsepower, and EPA ratings are 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Typical used prices range from $7,000 to $9,500 for clean, low-mileage examples.

This is the pick for buyers who want the most fully equipped Five Hundred without the CVT risk found in AWD models. It trades away all-weather traction for significantly better transmission reliability, with a reported failure rate under two percent. Compared to the 2007 SEL below, it adds luxury amenities but costs roughly $1,500 to $3,000 more. Buyers who prioritize equipment and peace of mind over saving money should choose this model.

2. 2007 SEL FWD Aisin Six-Speed

The 2007 SEL with front-wheel drive and the Aisin six-speed automatic ranks second as the best value pick because it delivers most of the Limited's core benefits at a substantially lower price. Standard features include alloy wheels, power-adjustable driver seat, and upgraded cloth upholstery, with leather available as an option. It shares the same 203-horsepower V6 and 19/27 mpg EPA fuel economy ratings as the Limited.

This model is for shoppers who want the reliable six-speed automatic and spacious interior without paying for luxury trim extras. It trades away heated leather seats and dual-zone climate control, which are standard on the Limited. Compared to the 2007 Limited above, it saves significant money while retaining the same drivetrain and safety features. Buyers who value function over frills will find this the most sensible choice in the lineup.

3. 2006 Limited FWD Aisin Six-Speed

The 2006 Limited with front-wheel drive and the Aisin six-speed automatic ranks third because it offers the same premium equipment and reliable transmission as the 2007 model but at a lower price point. It includes heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and a premium audio system as standard features. The 3.0-liter V6 delivers 203 horsepower with EPA ratings of 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

This car suits buyers who want Limited-level luxury but are willing to accept a one-year-older vehicle to save money. It trades away the final year's minor production refinements, though early issues were largely resolved by 2006. Compared to the 2007 Limited above, it offers nearly identical features and reliability for less money. Buyers who prioritize budget over the absolute newest model year will find this an excellent compromise.

4. 2006 SEL FWD Aisin Six-Speed

The 2006 SEL with front-wheel drive and the Aisin six-speed automatic ranks fourth because it provides a cost-effective entry into the Five Hundred lineup with solid equipment and dependable transmission. It comes with alloy wheels, optional leather upholstery, and a power-adjustable driver seat. The 203-horsepower V6 achieves 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, matching all other front-wheel-drive trims.

This model is aimed at buyers who want a well-equipped sedan without paying for the Limited's luxury extras. It trades away heated seats and premium audio, which are standard on higher trims. Compared to the 2006 Limited above, it costs roughly $2,000 less while sharing the same drivetrain and safety equipment. Shoppers who want the best balance of price and features will find this a strong contender.

5. 2005 Limited FWD Aisin Six-Speed

The 2005 Limited with front-wheel drive and the Aisin six-speed automatic ranks fifth because it offers the full equipment roster of later Limiteds but comes with the risks of a first-year model. It includes leather seating, dual-zone climate control, and premium audio as standard features. The 3.0-liter V6 produces 203 horsepower with EPA ratings of 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

This car is for buyers who want the Limited experience at a discount and are willing to accept early-production quirks. It trades away the refinements of 2006 and 2007 models, with a slightly higher incidence of throttle-body irregularities. Compared to the 2006 Limited above, it saves about $1,500 but requires a more thorough pre-purchase inspection. Buyers who find a well-maintained example with service records can still get good value here.

6. 2005-2006 SE FWD Aisin Six-Speed

The 2005-2006 SE with front-wheel drive and the Aisin six-speed automatic ranks sixth because it is the most affordable way to get the Five Hundred's hallmark interior space and ride comfort. It is the base trim, so it lacks alloy wheels, leather upholstery, and premium audio. The 203-horsepower V6 still delivers 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Typical used prices range from $3,500 to $5,000, making it the cheapest reliable option in the lineup.

This model is for budget-focused buyers who prioritize space and reliability over creature comforts. It trades away nearly all luxury features to achieve the lowest entry price. Compared to the 2005 Limited above, it costs about $1,000 less but offers a much more basic interior. Buyers who need a spacious, dependable sedan for minimal money will find this the most practical choice.

7. 2007 Limited AWD CVT

The 2007 Limited AWD ranks seventh because it adds the rare Haldex-based all-wheel-drive system but forces buyers to accept the less reliable ZF CFT30 CVT. It includes the same luxury features as the front-wheel-drive Limited, such as heated leather seats and dual-zone climate control. The 203-horsepower V6 achieves slightly lower EPA ratings of 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

This car is for buyers who absolutely need all-weather traction and are willing to accept higher transmission risk. It trades away the reliability of the Aisin six-speed for the CVT, which has a five to seven percent reported failure rate. Compared to the 2007 Limited FWD above, it costs about the same but carries significant long-term maintenance concerns. Only purchase this if the CVT has a fully documented service history.

8. 2006-2007 SEL AWD CVT

The 2006-2007 SEL AWD ranks eighth because it offers mid-level equipment with the same all-wheel-drive capability and CVT as the Limited AWD, but at a lower price. It includes alloy wheels, power-adjustable driver seat, and optional leather upholstery. The 203-horsepower V6 achieves 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Typical used prices range from $5,500 to $7,500, making it a more affordable AWD option.

This model is for buyers who want AWD traction without paying Limited prices, but who must accept the CVT's reliability concerns. It trades away heated seats and premium audio for a lower entry cost. Compared to the 2007 Limited AWD above, it saves about $2,000 but shares the same transmission risk. Buyers should verify recent CVT fluid changes and consider a professional transmission inspection before purchase.

9. 2005 SEL/SE AWD CVT

The 2005 SEL/SE AWD ranks ninth because it combines the first model year's early-production quirks with the CVT, making it one of the riskiest Five Hundred options. It offers mid-level or base equipment depending on trim, with alloy wheels on the SEL and steel wheels on the SE. The 203-horsepower V6 achieves 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Typical used prices range from $3,500 to $5,000, reflecting the higher risk.

This car is for buyers on a tight budget who need AWD and are willing to gamble on transmission reliability. It trades away the production refinements of later years and carries a higher incidence of CVT failures. Compared to the 2006-2007 SEL AWD above, it costs about $2,000 less but is significantly riskier. Only consider this if the CVT has been replaced or has a complete service record.

10. 2005 SE AWD CVT Base

The 2005 SE AWD ranks last because it combines every risk factor: the base trim, first model year, all-wheel drive, and the CVT. It offers the fewest features of any Five Hundred, with manual cloth seats and steel wheels as standard. The 203-horsepower V6 achieves 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Typical used prices range from $3,000 to $4,500, making it the cheapest but least desirable option.

This model is for buyers who need the lowest possible price and AWD, but it is not recommended for most shoppers. It trades away nearly all equipment and carries the highest risk of transmission failure and early-production issues. Compared to the 2005 SEL/SE AWD above, it saves a small amount of money but offers even less. A thorough transmission inspection is mandatory, and most buyers should look elsewhere in the lineup.

How we ranked these

We ranked Ford Five Hundred model years by weighing documented transmission reliability, typical used pricing, EPA fuel economy, and production-year refinements. The Aisin six-speed automatic received the highest weight due to its lower failure rate, followed by equipment levels and overall value. Later model years scored higher for accumulated fixes and standard features.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand loyalty, and anecdotal owner reviews without supporting data. We also excluded aftermarket modifications and regional pricing anomalies, as these distort comparisons. Performance metrics like acceleration were not weighted because all models share the same 203-hp V6, making transmission and condition the true differentiators.

What to look for

When choosing a Ford Five Hundred, the transmission is the deciding factor. Prioritize front-wheel-drive models with the Aisin six-speed automatic, which has a failure rate under 2% compared to 5-7% for the ZF CVT. Verify the transmission type by checking the VIN or under the hood, and request service records for fluid changes every 60,000 miles.

The most common mistake is buying an AWD model for its traction without understanding the CVT risk. AWD is only available with the CVT, which can fail without proper maintenance. Also, avoid 2005 models with unresolved early-production issues. Always get a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the transmission, throttle body, and suspension.

Related questions

What is the best Ford Five Hundred model year?

The 2007 Limited with front-wheel drive and the Aisin six-speed automatic is the best overall. It offers the most refined equipment, benefits from three years of production improvements, and avoids the CVT reliability issues found in AWD models. Typical prices range from $7,000 to $9,500.

Which Ford Five Hundred model years have the CVT transmission?

All all-wheel-drive Ford Five Hundreds use the ZF CFT30 CVT, as do a few early 2005 front-wheel-drive models. The CVT has a higher failure rate than the Aisin six-speed automatic, so it's crucial to verify the transmission type and service history before purchasing.

Is the Ford Five Hundred reliable?

Reliability depends heavily on the transmission. Front-wheel-drive models with the Aisin six-speed automatic are generally reliable, with fewer reported issues. AWD models with the CVT have more transmission problems. Other common issues include throttle-body problems and suspension wear on high-mileage examples.

What is the fuel economy of the Ford Five Hundred?

The EPA rated the Ford Five Hundred at 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models, regardless of trim. AWD models are slightly lower at 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. These figures are consistent across all model years.

How much is a used Ford Five Hundred worth?

Prices vary by trim and condition. Front-wheel-drive SE models range from $3,500 to $5,000, SELs from $4,500 to $6,500, and Limiteds from $7,000 to $9,500. AWD models can cost between $3,500 and $9,500, with Limited AWDs often priced higher due to demand.

Does the Ford Five Hundred have all-wheel drive?

Yes, the Ford Five Hundred offers an optional all-wheel-drive system, which is rare for a full-size sedan. However, all AWD models are paired with the ZF CFT30 CVT, which has known reliability concerns. If you need AWD, verify the CVT has a complete service history.

What engine is in the Ford Five Hundred?

All Ford Five Hundreds use a 3.0-liter Duratec V6 engine producing 203 horsepower. This engine provides adequate acceleration for daily driving, though it is not a performance powerhouse. The six-speed automatic helps optimize power delivery.

What are common problems with the Ford Five Hundred?

The most common problems include CVT failures in AWD models, throttle-body issues causing rough idle or stalling, minor electrical gremlins like window regulator faults, and suspension wear on high-mileage vehicles. A thorough pre-purchase inspection can help identify these issues.

FAQ

Which Ford Five Hundred model year should I avoid?

Avoid early 2005 models, especially those with AWD and the CVT, as they have the highest risk of transmission failures and unresolved early-production issues. If considering a 2005, choose a front-wheel-drive version with the Aisin six-speed automatic and a complete service history.

Is the CVT transmission really that problematic?

Yes, NHTSA complaint data shows a failure rate of roughly 5-7% for the ZF CFT30 CVT in the Five Hundred, compared to less than 2% for the Aisin six-speed automatic. Regular fluid changes every 30,000 miles can mitigate risk, but the CVT remains the weakest link.

How much does a used Ford Five Hundred typically cost?

Typical prices are $7,000-$9,500 for a Limited FWD, $4,500-$6,500 for an SEL FWD, and $3,500-$5,000 for an SE FWD. AWD models range from $3,500 to $9,500 depending on trim and condition. Prices vary with mileage, region, and maintenance documentation.

Does the Five Hundred have enough power for highway driving?

The 203-hp V6 provides adequate acceleration for most driving situations, though it is not a performance vehicle. The six-speed automatic keeps the engine in its optimal power band, making highway cruising comfortable and responsive enough for passing.

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 with documented service records.

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

Common issues include CVT failures (in AWD models), throttle-body problems causing rough idle or stalling, minor electrical faults like window regulators, and suspension wear on high-mileage vehicles. A pre-purchase inspection focused on these areas can prevent costly surprises.

What is the best value Ford Five Hundred?

The 2006-2007 SEL with front-wheel drive and the Aisin six-speed automatic offers the best value. It provides most of the Limited's equipment at a lower price, typically $4,500-$6,500, while avoiding the CVT reliability concerns.

How often should the transmission fluid be changed?

For the Aisin six-speed automatic, change fluid every 60,000 miles or 5 years. For the ZF CFT30 CVT, change fluid every 30,000 miles or 3 years. Documentation of these services is essential, especially for AWD models.

Are there any recalls for the Ford Five Hundred?

Yes, there have been recalls, including throttle-body and transmission updates. Run the VIN through the NHTSA database to confirm all recalls have been addressed. This is an important step in the pre-purchase inspection process.

Sources

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Five_Hundred
• https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
• https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/Find.do?action=sbs&id=2005_2007
• https://www.edmunds.com/ford/five-hundred/
• https://www.kbb.com/ford/five-hundred/
• https://www.caranddriver.com/ford/five-hundred

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