Ford Flex problems
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Ford Flex model years
Common Ford Flex problems
The Ford Flex, a popular full-size crossover car, has been manufactured from 2008 to 2019. While generally reliable, the Ford Flex has had its share of common problems. Electrical issues are one of the most prevalent problems, particularly in the 2013 and 2014 models. These issues can range from minor inconveniences, such as a door light staying on when the car is shut, to major problems like loss of power while driving or a car that won't start. Electrical problems can be unpredictable and costly to repair, making the 2013 and 2014 Ford Flex years to avoid if you want to minimize the risk of these issues.
Engine troubles are another common problem in the Ford Flex, particularly in the 2010 model. Engine failure, blown engines, and check engine lights are some of the issues that have been reported. These problems can be expensive to repair and can cause significant inconvenience for drivers. If you're looking for a used Ford Flex, it's best to avoid the 2010 model if you want to minimize the risk of engine troubles.
Interior and exterior accessory issues are also common in the Ford Flex. These issues can range from air conditioning and heater troubles to stuck seat latches. While not as serious as electrical or engine problems, they can still cause inconvenience for drivers and may require costly repairs.
In addition to these common problems, there have been specific recalls related to the Ford Flex. For example, certain 2018 Ford Flexes were recalled due to loose connections between the power supply, alternator, and regulator, which can increase the risk of fires. Ford dealers were instructed to inspect these parts and verify that they're connected, with any repairs done free of charge. Suspension problems have also prompted Ford to recall certain Ford Flexes from 2013 to 2018, with the rear toe links potentially fracturing due to excessive movement in the suspension and causing the vehicle to crash. The American carmaker has offered to replace both left and right toe links on affected vehicles for free.
To avoid unexpected maintenance and repair costs, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the most common problems of the Ford Flex before purchasing a used one. The 2010 model is considered the worst in the lineup due to its problems occurring at lower mileage. The 2013 and 2014 models are also worth avoiding due to their electrical issues, while the 2010 model should be avoided if you want to minimize the risk of engine troubles. By being aware of these common problems, you can make an informed decision and choose a Ford Flex model that is less prone to issues.
What problems does a Ford Flex have?
Some of the most common Ford Flex problems include alternator, fuel pump control module, and electronic power-steering assist issues.
Is the Ford Flex a reliable car?
The Ford Flex Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 7th out of 8 for minivans. The average annual repair cost is $713 which means it has average ownership costs. The frequency and severity of repairs are both fairly average when compared with all other vehicles.
Do Ford Flex have transmission problems?
Common Ford Flex Transmission Problems
There are a number of design flaws in this transmission, and any one of them could be causing these symptoms. Another common problem is overheating. This happens when the moving parts inside the transmission are creating more friction heat than the ATF can remove.
What are the cons of a Ford Flex?
Here are three cons that stood out the most:
- Low-quality audio system.
- Boring base engine.
- Unimpressive interior.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Flex years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Flex cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Flex model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Flex model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Flex years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Flex car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Flex , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Engine problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Flex vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Flex model years
A total of 56 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Flex model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Flex model years
There were a total of 53 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Flex model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1473 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Flex . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Flex vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Flex 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 2FMGK5C81KB
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Ford Flex. The contact stated that upon turning their vehicle on and putting the transmission into reverse, she noticed that the reverse backup cameras display was upside down. The contact stated that she relies on her backup cameras display in order to conduct her vehicle. The contact drove her vehicle to a local dealer however the vehicle was not diagnosed, The contact was however informed that her vehicles VIN was not included in a recall. The contact stated that she has set an appointment in order to have her vehicle diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 96,000.
Ford Flex 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 2FMGK5C84EB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Backup camera is flipped upside down all the time or doesn't work at times.
Ford Flex 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 2FMHK6C86DB
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while driving at unknown speeds, after coming to a stop and then attempting to switch lanes, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The power steering assist message was displayed. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle started operating as designed. The contact called an independent mechanic and was informed about NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering). The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 163,000.
Ford Flex 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 2FMGK5B80KB
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while reversing, the rearview camera image was either blank or upside down. The contact stated that the failure was initially intermittent but later became consistent. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where it was diagnosed, and an unknown repair was performed under the warranty. The vehicle was repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Action Number: PE24030(Back Over Prevention). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Ford Flex 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 2FMHK6C85KB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rear park aid camera failure. The camera does not always display when reverse is selected. The camera only shows an upside down image when it displays. The camera displays severe vertical lines when dark, virtually making the display useless. This is a safety issue because I cannot see persons or objects behind me if the camera is inoperable. If the camera is operable, with the display upside down, it is disorienting to use as a means of protecting persons or objects behind me as well as protecting my vehicle from damage. I have not taken it to the dealer for this issue, as it began after the warranty period expired. The problem has not been inspected by a dealer, independent service center, the manufacturer, police or insurance representatives. The vehicle has not been recalled for this issue. I find this surprising, given the large number of Ford vehicles which have been recalled for rear camera problems. I also find this to be a somewhat common problem with the Ford Flex across multiple model years, based on viewing of various chat boards found on the internet.
Ford Flex 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 2FMHK6C87KB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: 2019 Ford Flex Back-up camera view is always upside and sometimes delayed or unavailable when the car is put into reverse. Software updates are current. The camera going out, delayed, and being upside down when backing up is definitely a safety issue. There are no longer wheel guidance lines available. The car is 5 years old and the camera worked for about the first two years. There were no warning signs for the problem. Thought a recall would be issued.
Ford Flex 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 2FMHK6C81KB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The Back up camera failed several times. When vehicle is put into reverse the screen would be black and after some time a message indicating failure to connect to camera would appear.
Ford Flex 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 2FMHK6D8XFB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rearview camera issues- Camera does not come on 90% of the time. Will get an error that camera requires service. I brought this ford's attention when a similar recall went out on the Bronco, as I also own a Bronco. I was advise a there was no details available
Ford Flex 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 2FMHK6C85KB
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: Back up camera fails to operate
Ford Flex 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 2FMGK5B83DB
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: There is a power steering assist fault. Mine failed. This is a known issue That was recalled for the model year of my car, but my car apparently falls outside of the recall.
Ford Flex 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 2FMHK6C85EB
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Flex. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was fishtailing, causing the contact to lose control of the rear end of the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure was causing the tires and brakes to wear out prematurely, and had caused the tires to cave in. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V393000 (Power Train); however, the failure persisted. The failure mileage was approximately 113,000.
Ford Flex 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 2FMGK5B84GB
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Flex. The contact stated that the back-over prevention camera was inoperable. The message that the camera was unavailable was displayed on the screen. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.
Ford Flex 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
- VIN: 2FMHK6DT6DB
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated while driving at approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. The "Power Steering Assist Fault" message was displayed on the instrument panel. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the power steering control module needed to be replaced. The contact researched and was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.
Ford Flex 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- VIN: 2FMHK6C84EB
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Flex. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked next to the trash can, the contact exited the vehicle to put trash from the trunk into the trash can, the contact shifted the gear shifter but was unsure of what gear was selected. The contact stated that the vehicle started rolling forward. The contact was able to shift the gear shifter while the vehicle was moving forward and then shifted into reverse and was able to stop the vehicle upon striking a tree. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage 80,000
Ford Flex 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 2FMGK5D86KB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Ford Flex. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start, and needed to be jumpstarted. Upon replacing the battery and jumping starting the vehicle, the vehicle failed to restart independently. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The contact stated that the independent mechanic replaced the battery and all components connected to the battery; however, the vehicle failed to independently start. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V548000 (Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 87,000.
Latest 5 recalls Ford Flex
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 25 recalls for different components of the Ford Flex.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Flex 2016
- Report Received Date: 2020-02-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
- Consequence: A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. Remedy parts are not currently available. Owners were notified about the recall on March 3, 2020. A second notice will be mailed when remedy parts become available, which is currently expected to be the end of September 2020. The recall began October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or Lincoln customer service at 1-800-521-4140. Ford's number for this recall is 20S04.
- Model: Ford Flex 2013
- Report Received Date: 2020-02-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
- Consequence: A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. Remedy parts are not currently available. Owners were notified about the recall on March 3, 2020. A second notice will be mailed when remedy parts become available, which is currently expected to be the end of September 2020. The recall began October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or Lincoln customer service at 1-800-521-4140. Ford's number for this recall is 20S04.
- Model: Ford Flex 2014
- Report Received Date: 2020-02-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
- Consequence: A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. Remedy parts are not currently available. Owners were notified about the recall on March 3, 2020. A second notice will be mailed when remedy parts become available, which is currently expected to be the end of September 2020. The recall began October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or Lincoln customer service at 1-800-521-4140. Ford's number for this recall is 20S04.
- Model: Ford Flex 2015
- Report Received Date: 2020-02-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
- Consequence: A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. Remedy parts are not currently available. Owners were notified about the recall on March 3, 2020. A second notice will be mailed when remedy parts become available, which is currently expected to be the end of September 2020. The recall began October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or Lincoln customer service at 1-800-521-4140. Ford's number for this recall is 20S04.
- Model: Ford Flex 2018
- Report Received Date: 2020-02-10
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
- Consequence: A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. Remedy parts are not currently available. Owners were notified about the recall on March 3, 2020. A second notice will be mailed when remedy parts become available, which is currently expected to be the end of September 2020. The recall began October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or Lincoln customer service at 1-800-521-4140. Ford's number for this recall is 20S04.
Latest negative Ford Flex car reviews
Latest positive Ford Flex car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2017
Congratulations on your twins! It sounds like you found the perfect vehicle to fit your needs with the Ford Flex. The Flex offers a spacious rear door opening without the bulkiness of a traditional SUV or minivan. You mentioned that the Flex is the most comfortable car you have driven, even compared to luxury brands like Audi, Cadillac, and Mercedes-Benz. The adjustable pedals and power lift gate are convenient features that make driving and loading/unloading a breeze. The Flex also has impressive technology, including a top-notch backup camera. The AWD system performed well in the snow, making it a reliable winter driver. Overall, it seems like the Ford Flex exceeded your expectations and changed your perception of the brand. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!(Like the 120 standard outlet in the rear of the center console.) Although the gas mileage is on par with a larger SUV, which is to say it is much less than a minivan, we still love this car. The memory seat and mirrors cannot be used while not in park, which can be a bit annoying, but we understand that it's a safety issue. The third row access is only by lifting the middle seats up, and unfortunately, the auto button to flip the seat up cannot operate with a child seat. However, we believe there is a 'captains chair' option for the rear/mid seats, but we have the standard bench style. All in all, we are very happy with the car. It is hard to beat in terms of looks and comfort for the price, and it comes with a lot of great options.
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Vehicle year: 2009
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my trusty Flex. I bought it brand new back in 2009 and have been using it for work travel all over the United States. It's been a great companion, never been in a wreck, and has an impressive 335,600 miles on it! Besides regular upkeep, I've only had to replace the fuel pump and water pump. I still drive it and I'm confident it will go another 300,000 miles. It's definitely the best Ford I've ever driven!
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Vehicle year: 2014
I traded in my Mercedes r350 for a 2014 limited w/eco boost Ford Flex and I'm glad I did. While the Mercedes was solid as a tank, the Ford Flex styling suits me much better. It's deceiving in that it looks like a slow mom/pop car, but when I pull up to a red light and a luxury vehicle tries to outgun me, they are quickly left with their mouth open in my 365 horsepower dust. This mom/pop car is pretty fast - and I love it. I also love the unique white diamond tri-coat color (it's somewhat sparkly in the sun) and the black roof. Although Mini Cooper and Range Rover make a similar combination, the Flex is still very unique. In fact, looking at it from the front, the Flex could pass as a Range Rover.
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Vehicle year: 2014
The Flex is the perfect combination of luxury car and SUV. I can tell you from my own research and style preferences that this car is a winner. The drive is smooth and comfortable, and the quality is outstanding. While the radio controls and steering wheel controls could use some improvement, overall I am extremely satisfied with my purchase.
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Vehicle year: 2009
This is a wonderful vehicle that keeps getting better. It is very quiet on the road, especially on the highway. The speed control is the best I have ever used and the transmission is truly flawless. The ride is well controlled and the steering is precise. I have owned many high-end brands, including BMW, Porsche, Mercedes, and a VW Phaeton, but I must say that Ford has done a tremendous job with this vehicle. If you are interested in a people mover/luxury drive that is not so full of pomp but great fun to drive, you should definitely check this vehicle out.
Are you having problems with your Ford Flex?
Jayson Zulauf 2025-10-12
Vehicle year: 2012
Living with a family of 5 at 9000 ft on top of a mountain in Colorado with switchbacks and heavy winters, commuting 30 minutes each way to work, and living on a tight budget can be challenging. However, the Flex has been a lifesaver for me. With regular maintenance and occasional windshield replacements, it has been my only cost in 2 years. I purchased it used at 98k and now have almost 150k on it (we road trip a lot too). The EcoBoost has saved our lives countless times on the highway and the gas mileage is pretty decent. Although something failed in my turbo at the beginning of the year, which then ended up blowing the engine while I still owed several thousand on it, I still miss my Flex. If I could afford it, I would definitely get another one and take it in for checkups more often.
Drake Schmeler 2025-10-09
Vehicle year: 2012
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Flex that I bought from a dealer. Over a period of five years, I put over 100,000 miles on it and I'm happy to say that I didn't have any problems. I made sure to do all routine service at the dealer to keep it in top shape. However, at around 110,000 miles, the turbos blew. I replaced them with factory parts, but unfortunately, the engine blew soon after. It was definitely a bummer, especially since I loved that car so much. According to the blue book, the value of my super loaded auto in excellent condition is around 14k, but after the engine blew, I was lucky to get 2k at auction. I'm not sure if this is a common problem or if I just had bad luck, but I've heard that there are some issues with the ecoboost in general. Thanks for listening to my story!
Felipe Rohan 2025-10-08
Vehicle year: 2014
The Flex is a practical choice for a family of five, especially with three little boys. It serves as a great alternative to a van. Although we had some issues with the motherboard in the front computer panel and the back windows, they were all covered under warranty. The heater/air is wonderful and Ford's Sync system is one of the best out there in my opinion. The captain chairs in the back with easy access to the third row are very convenient and there is pretty good storage space using all three rows. However, the acceleration is not great and you have to be cautious before pulling out into traffic or onto the interstate on ramp. We believe that the Flex should have a larger engine to accommodate the size and weight of the vehicle. Despite these issues, we are happy with our purchase.
Thomas Schimmel 2025-10-06
Vehicle year: 2010
The Ford Flex is my company vehicle and it gets a lot of use. My family also loves it for personal use because of its size and flexibility. However, I have encountered an issue with the Fuel Filler. The cap-less design is easily damaged, which can prevent fuel from entering the vehicle and cause the pump to shut off. Unfortunately, I live in NJ where I am not allowed to pump my own gas, so I cannot control how the fuel is pumped. I am taking it to the dealer tomorrow to get it fixed. I did some research and found that this issue is quite common, although it is not covered under warranty. So, it's important to be aware of this issue when considering the Ford Flex.
Leopoldo Weimann 2025-09-21
Vehicle year: 2015
Gas mileage has been misrepresented and is very poor. I had a negative experience with Ford regarding the lease buyout, due to the representative's ignorance and poor mileage. I will be returning the vehicle. Thank you for your understanding.