The 2006 Ford Five Hundred uses a six-speed automatic transmission.
The transmission is a six-speed, electronically controlled automatic paired with the car's 3.0-liter Duratec V6 engine. It includes a manual shift mode commonly marketed as SelectShift, which lets drivers simulate manual gear changes without a clutch pedal. In the U.S. market, this model was not offered with a manual transmission, so the automatic was standard across trims.
Transmission type and configuration
The core specification is a six-speed automatic designed for smooth highway cruising and steady city driving. The electronic control system optimizes shift points for balanced performance and fuel efficiency, while the SelectShift feature provides a degree of driver involvement when desired.
Driving experience and maintenance considerations
Users typically rely on regular maintenance to keep the transmission operating smoothly, including using the manufacturer-recommended fluid and timing services. If shifts become harsh, late, or slip, it may indicate fluid condition or wear inside the transmission, warranting inspection by a qualified technician.
Notes for owners and buyers
For prospective buyers or owners researching a 2006 Five Hundred, the key takeaway is that the vehicle uses a six-speed automatic rather than a manual gearbox. This configuration was chosen to balance comfortable daily driving with efficient highway performance.
Summary
In short, the 2006 Ford Five Hundred is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission featuring electronic control and a SelectShift manual mode. There was no factory manual transmission option in the U.S. market, making the automatic the sole transmission choice for that model year.