Ford Freestar

Test details:

The Ford Freestar was introduced in the 2004 model year as a replacement for the Windstar. The similar Mercury Monterey was introduced in 2004 as well and discontinued after the 2006 model year. Beginning with 2006 models, design changes were made to the door trim panels and the side airbags to improve occupant protection in side impact crashes, and the side airbags were made standard in all Monterey models.

Two tests of a 2006 Freestar were conducted, one with optional side airbags for the driver and rear passenger, and one without. These vehicles are rated separately, except that the structural ratings for both vehicles are based on both tests.

Injury measures:

Driver — Measures taken from the dummy indicate that rib fractures and/or internal organ injuries would be likely in a crash of this severity. Serious neck injuries would also be possible.

Rear passenger — Measures taken from the dummy indicate a low risk of any significant injuries in a crash of this severity.

Head protection:

Driver — The intruding barrier came close to the dummy's head in this test. Although the barrier did not hit the head, this near miss indicates that only slightly different crash circumstances could produce a direct hit to a person's head.

Rear passenger — The dummy's head was hit by the window frame of the rear passenger door. This impact did not produce high head injury measures, but the head protection is inadequate.