2016 Ford Flex problems

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2016 Ford Flex

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Common 2016 Ford Flex problems

The Ford Flex, a crossover utility vehicle produced by Ford, has been praised for its distinctive styling and functionality. However, like any vehicle, it has experienced its share of problems, primarily related to the electrical system.

One common issue is the failure of the alternator, which can leave drivers stranded due to a dead battery. This problem can be resolved by replacing the alternator with a new one, which is readily available from aftermarket parts suppliers like CarParts.com.

Another electrical issue that has affected the Ford Flex is the door ajar light staying on even after the vehicle is turned off. This problem is caused by a malfunctioning sensor that continuously interprets that a door is open. Cleaning the sensor may provide a temporary solution, but replacing the entire sensor and door system is the recommended long-term fix.

The cooling fan module has also been a problematic area for the Ford Flex. Numerous instances have been reported where the vehicle would overheat while sitting in traffic, indicating a failure in the cooling fan module. Replacing the module is the typical solution, but the process can be challenging due to the variable nature of the problem and the lack of assistance from Ford.

The 2010 Ford Flex has been identified as the worst model in the lineup due to the frequency and severity of its problems, particularly engine failure. The design of the 2010 model's V6 EcoBoost engine has been linked to some problems, including faulty water pumps and issues with oil deposit buildup. Ford issued a recall for this issue, which was caused by the wrong positioning of battery cables that led to an electrical spark and complete disablement of the vehicle's electronics.

Interior and exterior accessory issues have also been a common complaint among Ford Flex owners. These problems include chrome on door handles peeling and flaking off, giving them an ugly appearance, and plastic trim on windows and doors fracturing and losing their color over time. These issues can impair the doors' and windows' operation and may require replacement of the affected components.

In summary, the Ford Flex has experienced various problems throughout its production, with a significant focus on electrical issues. While these problems can be inconvenient and expensive to fix, they do not necessarily indicate that the Ford Flex is an unreliable vehicle. Proper maintenance and regular inspections can help mitigate these issues and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.

2016 Ford Flex engine

What are the most common problems with the Ford Flex?

Some of the most common Ford Flex problems include alternator, fuel pump control module, and electronic power-steering assist issues.

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.

Are there any recalls on a 2016 Ford Flex?

Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Taurus, 2016-2017 Ford Flex, Lincoln MKT, 2017 Ford Explorer and Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. Improperly brazed turbocharger oil supply tubes may leak oil on engine components.

What are the cons of a Ford Flex?

Overall, the Flex rides well and is commendably quiet. Rear-seat room is cavernous, with a usable third-row seat and generous cargo space. But handling is clumsy and a large turning circle, along with limited rear visibility, hampers maneuverability.

What is the most common problem with the Ford Flex?

Some of the most common Ford Flex problems include alternator, fuel pump control module, and electronic power-steering assist issues.

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.

Is a Ford Flex a reliable car?

According to fordproblems.com, the Flex scores 24th out of 44 other Ford issues. It's right in the middle of the pack. Although the Ford Flex doesn't have incredible reliability, it's not the worst.

What is the best year for the Ford Flex?

2019: The 2019 Ford Flex is considered one of the best years due to its high reliability rating, improved gas mileage and the culmination of the best features and improvements – including the latest technology – from previous years.

2016 Ford Flex car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Flex problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Power train problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Steering problems
  • Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Ford Flex vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2016 Ford Flex

The NHTSA has received 45 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Ford Flex. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2016 Ford Flex vehicles.

2024-10-03

BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
  • 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.
2024-08-12

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
  • VIN: 2FMGK5D81GB
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the power steering assist failed to operate as needed. There was no warning light illuminated. Due to the failure, excessive force was needed to steer the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the contact was informed that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was then referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
2024-07-25

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-11
  • VIN: 2FMGK5C89GB
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Flex. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The steering warning light was illuminated. The contact was unable to add power steering fluid. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who provided the contact with an estimate for the repair. The local dealer was contacted, and the vehicle was diagnosed, it was determined that the power steering control module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The approximate failure mileage was 190,000.
2024-06-28

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-28
  • VIN: 2FMGK5C89GB
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The issue is that the pawl spring tab in the side door latch broke. The door does not close. if closed manually by manipulating the latch to close it, the door may open while driving. There was a recall for this exact issue a few years ago but I feel it needs to be opened back up and more models added to it, like the 2016 Flex. Here is the article from a few years ago: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-06-13

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-08
  • VIN: 2FMHK6C80GB
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Flex. The contact stated while driving at 50 MPH, the steering wheel became stiff. The contact stated there were two warning chimes alert heard. Additionally, “Stop Vehicle for Safe Steering” and “Power Steering Assist Service Required” messages were displayed. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the steering monitor sensor fault and rack needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
2024-05-23

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-21
  • VIN: 2FMHK6C80GB
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: The car started jerking and slowing down on the highway and would not accelerate. I was able to pull over to the side of the road and had the car towed to a service center. A repair shop did a print out of the error codes from the computer which indicated an error relating to the power steering control module. A search online show that many other Ford flex owners have experienced similar issues.
2024-01-03

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-03
  • VIN: 2FMGK5B88GB
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: There is far to much to list
2023-06-29

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-26
  • VIN: 2FMHK6DT0GB
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The power transfer unit otherwise referred to as a transfer case exploded from the inside with under 50k miles on the Flex resulting in the transmission cracking and breaking as well. AAA inspected and replaced both transmission and transfer case. They say they see a lot of them for these models and is a common issue. We kept old transfer case as proof. Car is not used for towing as it has no hitch and as stated before had under 50000 miles when it destroyed itself with myself and kids in the car driving 45 mph.
2023-05-15

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-15
  • VIN: 2FMHK6DT6GB
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The passenger door latch cracked and door would not close. This is exactly as described in a recall of other Ford vehicles from the same model year, however, the Flex was not included.
2023-04-11

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-10
  • VIN: 2FMGK5C88GB
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: 2nd row passenger side bucket seat seatbelt no longer latches. Car has less than 35,000 miles. Seat is no longer able to be occupied legally. My child in booster seat uses that seat belt and could have become unsecured while driving which would have put him at risk if there was an accident or would have had to brake quickly. Seatbelt has not been inspected by anyone at this time. No warning or symptoms of a problem. Problem started 4/10/2023.
2023-02-17

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-10-01
  • VIN: 2FMGK5C89GB
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
  • Summary: The backup camera safety system operates intermittently. We are unable to see behind us when backing up putting us and others at risk. Sometimes it works when in Reverse, but most of the time the touchscreen panel does not even change over to show the camera view at all. The Flex is a large vehicle so a non-working camera or electrical component for the camera is unsafe. There are other existing recalls related to other Ford makes and models due to faulty cameras and image modules. This could be the same or a related issue. No errors or codes appear. I have not taken to a dealer yet because they charge $300 just to do a diagnosis.
2023-01-03

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-01-03
  • VIN: 2FMGK5D83GB
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Ford hid the fact that some of its vehicles may suffer a sudden internal water pump failure that poses significant safety risks to drivers including sudden catastrophic engine failure. From 2007 through at least 2020, Ford has incorporated the Cyclone Engine—containing a faulty internal water pump—into thousands of vehicles. Internal Water Pumps should last for the useful life of the engines without the need for any service, maintenance, or repair. Despite knowing for more than a decade that its' vehicles incorporating the "Duratec Engine", contain a defect in design that can cause the internal water pump to prematurely fail well before the end of the useful life of the engine. The issue has lead to a repair estimate of $2700 USD or could lead to catastrophic engine failure due to the water pumps' placement inside the engine block (Poor Design). In the past, Ford has also represented that the water pump will not need to be serviced or maintenance, but the internal location of the water pump in the engine conceals it from view and inspection when other routine services are being performed. The water pump is in line with the crankshaft and located over the main body of the engine, it reportedly allows coolant to leak from the water pump into the oil pan. Making matters worse, mixed coolant and oil can lead to engine failure, too.
2022-11-06

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-10-27
  • VIN: 2FMGK5B80GB
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
  • Summary: Door sensor states door is ajar when it is closed, causing battery drainage and safety concern about doors
2022-06-07

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-06-04
  • VIN: 2FMGK5C83GB
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Flex. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side door latch had fractured. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the spring in the door fractured and damaged the striker within the door mechanism. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and suggested that the vehicle be taken to the dealer for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 133,000.
2022-03-11

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-11-21
  • VIN: 2fmgk5d89gb
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Flex. The contact stated that upon start of the vehicle, the door ajar warning light would illuminate on the instrument panel despite all doors being checked and fully closed. The contact also stated that a warning chime would continuously ring and the front interior lights would remain on while driving. The contact stated that the interior lights would shut off after driving above a certain speed; however, the warning chime and the warning light would persist. The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
2022-02-19

BACK OVER PREVENTION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-01-17
  • VIN: 2fmgk5c88gb
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Rear backup camera fails. It was repaired once under warranty, (7 Jan 2019) second time under extended warranty protection (17 Jun 2021), now has failing for the third time. Local Ford dealer has the information and I have repair invoices.
2022-01-25

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-01-01
  • VIN: 2fmgk5b87gb
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The APIM stopped working, this unit controls all of the SYNC functions as well as front cabin vent selection. We can no longer use the windshield defrost because the air will only blow from the vents facing the driver and passenger seat. All hands free phone features, aux input, and USB port have also stopped working.
2021-12-06

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-11-21
  • VIN: 2FMHK6C89GB
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Ford Flex. The contact stated that the passenger’s side front and rear door latches malfunctioned making it difficult to securely close the doors. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
2021-09-13

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-08-24
  • VIN: 2FMHK6C87GB
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: The passenger side seat belt tightens on passenger while driving. It tightened on one passenger so tight; there became a need to cut the belt off! The second time it tightened on the passenger while driving, but did not tighten to the point of needing to cut the belt. When I took the vehicle to the dealership they didn’t seem to interested in the issue, however the service tech and the mechanical tech reportedly did drive the vehicle (saying the passenger pulled on the seat belt and it was working properly). However the tension tightens without notice on the passenger side front seat and today the alarm for no seatbelt didn’t even come on when the passenger was unbuckled when the vehicle was driven!!
2021-02-09

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-02-06
  • VIN: 2FMGK5C83GB
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD FLEX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V072000 (SUSPENSION) AND HAD THE VEHICLE SERVICED AT TUSCALOOSA FORD (5801 MCFARLAND BLVD E, TUSCALOOSA, AL 35405). MONTHS LATER, THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, SHE SUDDENLY LOST CONTROL OF THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AS SHE TURNED THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT, THE VEHICLE WOULD SHIFT TO THE RIGHT AND VICE VERSE. THE FAILURE NEARLY CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO FLIP OVER WHILE DRIVING. THE CONTACT REGAINED CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CONTINUED DRIVING AT A SLOWER SPEED. THE CONTACT'S HUSBAND THEN CALLED THE DEALER AND WAS INFORMED TO NO LONGER DRIVE THE VEHICLE. DUE TO THE FAILURE, THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY DIAGNOSED THE FAILURE AS A FRACTURED TOE LINK, WHICH SHE LINKED TO THE PRIOR SERVICED RECALL. THE DEALER INFORMED HER THAT SHE WOULD HAVE TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE OUT OF POCKET. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND REMAINED IN THE POSSESSION OF THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 66,000.
2021-02-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-02-01
  • VIN: 2FMGK5C8XGB
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
  • Summary: REAR PARK ASSIST CAMERA DOES NOT ACTIVATE WHEN IN REVERSE. READ PASSENGER DOOR LOCK PAWL FRACTURE-NHTSA RECALL. FORD REFUSES TO REPAIR THE RECALL BECAUSE THEY DID NOT ISSUE THE RECALL. THIS DOOR HAS A FRACTURED PAWL LOCK/LATCH ON THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR. CAR DOES NOT DETECT KEY. WE PAID ADDITIONAL FOR FOB ANNUAL REPLACEMENTS, FORD REFUSES TO REPLACE THE FOBS EVEN WHEN ITS FAULTY. I RECORDED THIS CALL...AND EVERY OTHER CALL.
2021-01-12

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-11-02
  • VIN: 2FMGK5D81GB
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD FLEX. T THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 20V072000 (SUSPENSION) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD KNOCKING FROM THE PASSENGER'S SIDE OF THE DASHBOARD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. MURRAY FORD STARKE (13447 US-301, STARKE, FL 32091) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
2021-01-04

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-01-04
  • VIN: 2FMGK5D84GB
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: NHTSA RECALL NUMBER: 20V072. SAFETY ISSUE NEARLY A YEAR AFTER THIS RECALL FORD STILL HAS " REMEDY NOT YET AVAILABLE."
2020-11-06

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-09-20
  • VIN: 2FMGK5C80GB
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE BACK UP CAMERA WORKS WHEN IT WANTS TO.
2020-10-26

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-10-26
  • VIN: 2FMHK6DT1GB
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 FORD FLEX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V072000 (SUSPENSION) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. AN UNKNOWN DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

2016 Ford Flex recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2016 Ford Flex.

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.
2016-12-22
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Taurus, 2016-2017 Ford Flex, Lincoln MKT, 2017 Ford Explorer and Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. Improperly brazed turbocharger oil supply tubes may leak oil on engine components.
  • Consequence: An oil leak, in the presence of an ignition source, increases the risk of a fire.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the turbocharger oil supply tubes, free of charge. The recall began on January 31, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S46.

Negative 2016 Ford Flex car reviews

  1. Orval Rohan 2024-11-29

    Although the car has not given us any mechanical problems, we have found it uncomfortable to drive on long trips due to leg and neck cramps. The touch screen can be distracting and the visibility is poor. Additionally, the electronic turn signal is not to our liking. We have also experienced issues with the low front bumper hitting curbs and cracking, which can be expensive to repair. Despite these challenges, we have owned the car for over seven years and have driven 120,000 miles. While we are ready to move on to a new vehicle, we appreciate the reliability it has provided us. Despite experiencing multiple issues with our car, we have been able to handle them with confidence. We recently had to replace a second wheel bearing and had an issue with the bolts holding the rear end, but we were able to address these problems effectively. Although we still owe 13 months of financing at $471.00 per month, we have been able to manage the average repair cost of $850 per year over the past five years. We are confident in our ability to continue maintaining this car until we are able to afford a new one.

  2. Erwin Wehner 2024-10-11

    I purchased this car brand new in 2014. Unfortunately, at 19k miles, I started to hear a clicking noise every time I did a U-turn or accelerated while turning. I took it to Galpin Ford and they told me it was the axle, which they fixed. However, at 27k miles, the same clicking noise came back and I had to get a new axle again. At 35k miles, my steering went out, but luckily it was in a parking lot. Unfortunately, the clicking noise returned and I had to get a new power steering and another axle. At 46k miles, the car left me stranded four times. By this time, the axle was clicking again, there was a bad exhaust smell when the car accelerated, and the car would not turn on. After fighting with Ford to cover the repairs, since the vehicle was out of warranty, I finally got it fixed. However, at 57k miles, the smell is back and the axle is clicking again. I decided to call a Lemon Law firm instead of Ford. I would advise staying away from Ford as they may look nice, but they are not reliable cars.

  3. Joshuah Douglas 2024-10-06

    I bought my flex usec from Carmax. The styling is really nice, with a two-tone red and black roof. However, I'm not a fan of the interior, which is two-toned with dark grey leather and a light beige roof. My biggest complaint is the handling in the rain. Every time I run over a puddle, it feels like the water grabs my wheels and jerks the car, which can be scary. I was hoping that purchasing new tires would help, but unfortunately, it didn't. That's the main reason why I'm considering getting a different vehicle. Additionally, the maintenance costs are high and it's not very fuel-efficient. Despite these negatives, it's a pleasure to drive in dry conditions and there's plenty of room inside.

  4. Sam Brown 2024-09-25

    Be cautious when considering purchasing a Ford Flex. While I had a negative experience with my 2014 model, it is important to note that every car is different. I had a transmission failure at 66,222 miles which caused my rear drive line to break. Although this was a scary experience for me and my family, I was fortunate enough to recognize the warning signs and pull over safely. While Ford did not cover the costs of the repairs, I understand that I was out of my drivetrain warranty. It is important to keep up with regular maintenance on any car to prevent potential issues. Thank you for considering my experience.

  5. Blaise Borer 2024-09-11

    I have always been a loyal Ford customer, having owned an Expedition, two different F150s, an F250, and now the brand new 2016 Flex. However, my recent experience with the Flex has been disappointing. In the first 6,000 miles, I have experienced five breakdowns due to sudden loss of acceleration, which is a serious safety concern. Despite having a code indicating a problem with the throttle body, the first dealer I visited was unable to replicate the issue during a test drive and therefore could not fix it. However, the dealer we purchased the car from was very helpful and ordered a new throttle body for us to keep driving the car until the issue could be resolved. Unfortunately, the problem persisted and I had to have the car towed to the dealer with the ordered part. While it is frustrating to have to deal with these issues, I am confident that Ford will take care of the problem and ensure that my car is safe to drive. I look forward to continuing my relationship with Ford and their quality vehicles.The suspension issue with my Flex has been looked at twice already, but unfortunately, it still persists. Despite the challenges, I remain confident that the issue will be resolved. While I have had some negative experiences with this car and the manufacturer's service, I have always had positive experiences with Ford in the past. I hope that they will continue to uphold their reputation for quality and customer service. However, if the issues with my Flex persist, I may need to consider other options for my family's safety. It is important to thoroughly research any potential car purchases and make an informed decision.

Positive 2016 Ford Flex car reviews

  1. Horace Christiansen 2025-01-05

    Last year, a little plastic trim piece flew off my Ford Flex - the piece that goes from the body to the roof of the car by the window. I took it to 32 Ford, and they said it was the manufacturer's fault, so they fixed it for free. However, just 5 days ago, the same piece from the other side flew off. I was surprised - do pieces of cars just come flying off? Since 32 Ford has closed down, I went to Beechmont Ford, and they charged me $269.29 to get it fixed. I'm a bit confused. Should I buy another Ford? Should I go back to that dealership? Or should I just go back to Toyota, where I never had car parts fly off before?

  2. Domenico Kuhic 2024-11-23

    It's a mystery why it's so difficult to create a three-row SUV with both ample third-row legroom and cargo space. However, the Flex manages to achieve this feat and is, in my opinion, the most versatile and practical vehicle I've ever owned. Despite its polarizing design, the interior is unbeatable in terms of comfort and usability. The features are also fantastic. The only issues I've encountered in 100k miles are: 1) Interior rattles have persisted since we purchased the vehicle with 38k miles on it, and they are not easily fixable. 2) The infotainment system can be a bit frustrating when trying to navigate while driving. For example, simple tasks like turning on the seat warmers or checking the interior temperature require several steps on the screen, which can be distracting. Other than that, it has been the best vehicle we've owned, excluding a minivan.

  3. Adrian Kuhlman 2024-11-18

    This car is really spacious and roomy, perfect for winter with its AWD. We went for the fully loaded and optioned out flex, only missing the sunroofs and rear children's DVD players, which are well-known problems with these cars. If you're buying used, it's a good idea to check the vehicle maintenance history to see if the EcoBoost motor's turbos, water pump, and timing chain have been replaced. Otherwise, it's best to save up some cash for when that may happen. Overall, it's an excellent vehicle!

  4. Joe Kemmer 2024-11-03

    I bought it because it's a modern station wagon.

  5. Willard Auer 2024-10-24

    This is my second Flex - first was used and loved it! So, I bought this one new. It has lots of pep, great room, and is perfect for my dogs too! It truly is the best vehicle I have ever owned.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2016 Ford Flex problems:

2016 Flex Build Quality Concerns - Ford Flex Forum
2016 Flex Build Quality Concerns - Ford Flex Forum
https://www.fordflex.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=16905

Sep 2, 2016 ... Tailgate, both passenger side doors, passenger fender, and hood all need to be adjusted. Three of four door gaskets need adjusting or replacing, ...

2016 Ford Flex Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2016 Ford Flex Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/ford/flex/2016/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2016 Ford Flex? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

Might be buying a Flex. Common issues, things to look for. - Ford ...
Might be buying a Flex. Common issues, things to look for. - Ford ...
https://www.fordflex.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=16852

Aug 26, 2016 ... So any common issues, recalls, things to check out before buying a used flex. I'm not a car noob, but I know every car has its issues... Like ...

2016 Ford Flex Problems and Complaints - 2 Issues
2016 Ford Flex Problems and Complaints - 2 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2016-ford-flex/problems

Problem with your 2016 Ford Flex? Our list of 2 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2016 Ford Flex.

EcoBoost Regret? - Ford Flex Forum
EcoBoost Regret? - Ford Flex Forum
https://www.fordflex.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=14602

Jun 10, 2015 ... Granted, the Flex experience may be completely different because of how the two vehicles are used, but because the base engine is the common ...

Other years of Ford Flex

ford flex 2017 photo
Flex 2017
Ford

20

2

18

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford flex 2018 photo
Flex 2018
Ford

22

1

19

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford flex 2019 photo
Flex 2019
Ford

50

1

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford flex 2009 photo
Flex 2009
Ford

178

1

23

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford flex 2010 photo
Flex 2010
Ford

136

1

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford flex 2011 photo
Flex 2011
Ford

137

2

11

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2016 Ford Flex photo