Adding to the comfort and utility of the 2005 Ford Five Hundred's interior are intuitive controls. Standard on SEL and Limited models is the automatic climate control system, and it's a breeze to use thanks to clearly marked buttons for the driver and front passenger and simple controls for fan speed and temperature. Cruise and remote radio controls are mounted on the steering wheel (SEL and Limited only), which allows for quick access and keeps the stalks less cluttered. Within easy reach on the left of the dash are the buttons for the adjustable foot pedals and the trunk release. On the driver's door, and within easy reach, are controls for the power windows and door locks, but the power mirror toggle is affixed to the A pillar - a bit of a stretch for drivers with short arms.
The audio system is simple in its operation, and provides good sound quality. Its basic menu is easily navigated, and controls an equalizer, speed-sensitive volume, and speaker settings.