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Do Ford Flex have transmission issues?

The Ford Flex, a popular crossover SUV, has generally been well-received by consumers, but there have been some reports of transmission issues with certain model years. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the transmission problems associated with the Ford Flex and provide an overview of what owners should know.


Transmission Problems in the Ford Flex


The Ford Flex is equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, and some owners have reported issues with this transmission, particularly in models from the 2009 to 2013 model years. The most common transmission problems reported include:



  • Delayed or erratic shifting

  • Transmission slipping or hesitating

  • Transmission fluid leaks

  • Transmission failure or complete breakdown


These transmission issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty sensors, worn-out components, or problems with the transmission control module. In some cases, the transmission may need to be repaired or replaced entirely, which can be a costly repair for owners.


Addressing Transmission Issues in the Ford Flex


If you own a Ford Flex and are experiencing transmission problems, there are a few steps you can take:



  • Bring your vehicle to a reputable mechanic or Ford dealership for diagnosis and repair. They can identify the specific issue and provide a recommended course of action.

  • Check for any outstanding recalls or technical service bulletins related to your vehicle's transmission. Ford may have issued a recall or service bulletin to address known issues, and this could help cover the cost of repairs.

  • Consider extended warranty coverage or aftermarket protection plans. Some owners have found success in getting their transmission issues covered by extended warranties or aftermarket protection plans, which can help offset the cost of repairs.


It's important to address transmission problems in the Ford Flex promptly, as they can worsen over time and lead to more extensive and costly repairs. By being proactive and working with a trusted mechanic, you can help ensure your Ford Flex continues to perform reliably on the road.

Is it worth replacing a transmission?


Alternatively, replacing your transmission may cost more, but you get the benefits of a brand-new transmission free of wear and tear. A new transmission should perform smoothly, seamlessly, and durably. Replacing your transmission also makes more sense if your vehicle is older or has many miles.



Does the Ford Flex have transmission problems?


Common Ford Flex Transmission Problems
Slipping, Erratic Shifting, Harsh Forward or Reverse Gear Engagement: Some of the most common 6F50 transmission problems are slipping between gears, erratic up or down shifts, or a hard slam when the 6F50 transmission engages Drive or Reverse.



Is Ford Flex a reliable car?


The Ford Flex has received middle to high reliability scores on major review sites. RepairPal gives it a decent 3.5 out of 5.0 rating, ranking it 7th out of 8 in its class. The Ford Flex has a fairly average annual ownership cost of $713. With proper maintenance, you can easily put 200,000 miles on your Ford Flex.



What year is the bad transmission in the Ford?


CINCINNATI (Howard Ain) -- Complaints about the operation of two of the Ford Motor Company's top selling models prompted the company to make changes. The problem goes back three years and involves the transmissions. It concerns the 2012, 13 and 14 Ford Focus and the Ford Fiesta.



What is the life expectancy of a Ford transmission?


150,000 to 200,000 miles
Transmission Wear-and-Tear: How long does a Ford F-150 transmission last? Typically, F-150 transmissions can last anywhere from 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Keep in mind that your transmission will experience wear and tear at the same rate as your engine.



Which car has the worst transmission problems?


6 Cars With Notoriously Bad Transmission Problems

  • Ford Focus. Ford. The Ford Focus is considered fairly dependable, but the 2012-2016 models equipped with the automatic DCT (dual-clutch transmission) are notorious for their quality.
  • Nissan Altima. Nissan.
  • Ford Mustang. Ford.
  • BMW M5 E60. BMW.
  • Nissan Rogue. Nissan.
  • Ford Fiesta. Ford.



Why did Ford discontinue the Flex?


Despite its strengths, the Flex faced increasing competition from other SUVs and crossovers in the market. The segment shifted towards a preference for sleeker, more car-like SUVs, and the Flex's wagon-inspired design fell out of favor.



What are the bad years for Ford?


2005-2008: Following the problematic 2004 model year, the 2005-2008 Ford F-150s continued to experience similar engine and transmission issues. Although Ford made some improvements, these model years were still marred by frequent repairs and reliability concerns.



What is the most common problem with the Ford Flex?


Top Ford Flex Problems

  • Broken Center Console Latch. 102 people have reported this.
  • Brake Noise – Front Grunting / Grinding. 78 people have reported this.
  • Transmission (Red) or Power Transfer Unit (PTU) (Brown) Fluid Leaks at Axle Area.
  • A/C Fan Speed Changing Constantly.
  • Rear Brakes Drag, Make Rhythmic Sound.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.