Power was delivered to the road by either a six-speed automatic or a Continually Variable Transmission (CVT), the latter aiming to reduce fuel consumption but at the expense of refined power delivery. Though the CVT has no gears to shift, it can see the relatively noisy V6 engine growling along endlessly during passing and acceleration. The CVT's effect on power delivery isn't everyone's cup of tea.


Safety is covered off by four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, as well as available side and side-curtain airbags. If you want to get your family around with supreme levels of roominess, comfort and safety, the Five-Hundred will make a fantastic choice.

Even though the Five Hundred is a fairly 'new' used car, there are a few issues to be on the lookout for. On a test-drive, leave the stereo and climate control fan switched off after you've determined the both are operating satisfactorily.

Listen for any abnormal sounds from the brakes as you apply them at various pressures and speeds. Any rough, grinding sounds should be questioned. You'll also want to 'feel' for any grinding or pulsations, as Five Hundred is known for a rear-brake issue which may create harshness that's apparent through the pedal as the vehicle stops. The solution requires attention to the rear rotors, as well as the use of updated brake pads. This is a good time to check the parking brake as well.

Are there any signs of noise coming from the rear suspension? A known issue can require revised shock absorbers to eliminate it- though it's more common in cold weather.

Another wintertime issue deals with engine starting. The Five Hundred may prove considerably less than willing to wake up at cold temperatures, in which case a reprogramming of the engine computer is in order.

A buzzing or hissing sound from the speakers is probably caused by electrical interference with the fuel pump. If the sound is apparent on your test drive and the previous owner hasn't attended to it, you'll need to have an electronic filter wired into the circuit.

2006 Ford Five Hundred