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How many miles is a Ford Flex good for?

The Ford Flex is a reliable and durable SUV that can typically last for 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. While the exact mileage can vary depending on driving conditions and individual usage, the Flex is known for its longevity and ability to withstand high-mileage driving.

Factors Affecting Ford Flex Lifespan

Several factors can influence the overall lifespan of a Ford Flex, including:

Maintenance: Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other recommended maintenance tasks are crucial for extending the Flex's lifespan. Neglecting these can lead to premature wear and tear on the vehicle.

Driving Conditions: Vehicles used for frequent towing, off-road driving, or in harsh environments (e.g., extreme temperatures, heavy traffic) may experience more wear and tear compared to those used for typical commuting.

Usage: The Flex's mileage can vary depending on how the vehicle is used, with high-mileage drivers likely to reach the 200,000-mile mark sooner than those who use the vehicle less frequently.

Engine and Transmission: The Flex's powertrain components, such as the engine and transmission, are designed to be durable and long-lasting, contributing to the vehicle's overall lifespan.

By following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and driving the Flex within its intended use, owners can maximize the vehicle's lifespan and enjoy its reliable performance for many years.

Maintaining a Ford Flex for Maximum Lifespan

To ensure a Ford Flex reaches the 200,000-mile mark or beyond, owners should adhere to the following maintenance tips:

Regular Oil Changes: Change the engine oil and filter at the recommended intervals, typically every 5,000 to 10,000 miles.

Tire Rotations: Rotate the tires every 5,000 to 10,000 miles to ensure even wear and tear.

Brake Inspections: Have the brakes inspected and serviced as needed to maintain optimal performance and safety.

Fluid Flushes: Replace the transmission, coolant, and other fluids at the recommended intervals to prevent premature wear on the components.

Alignment and Balancing: Regularly check the vehicle's alignment and have the tires balanced to prevent uneven tire wear.

By following these maintenance best practices, Ford Flex owners can maximize the lifespan of their vehicle and enjoy its reliable performance for many years to come.

Is a Ford Flex a reliable car?

The Ford Flex has a mixed reliability record, with some sources calling it a reliable vehicle while others highlight known, potentially catastrophic issues, especially with the internal water pump on 3.5L Duratec engines. While later models, particularly the 2019 model, had better scores from organizations like J.D. Power, common problems have included a faulty water pump that can cause engine damage, potential issues with the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) in AWD models, and problems with the front suspension and calipers.

This video discusses common problems with the Ford Flex: 34s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · May 18, 2023
Known issues

Internal water pump failure: The 3.5L "Duratec" engine's internal water pump is known to fail and leak coolant into the crankcase, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage if not caught early. This is often cited as a major design flaw and a "when, not if" problem for many models.
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failure: All-wheel-drive (AWD) models are susceptible to PTU failure.
Front suspension and brakes: Some owners have reported issues like bad front wheel bearings, ball joints, control arms, and caliper problems that can cause noise and uneven brake wear.
Other issues: Some owners have also mentioned problems with oxygen sensors, CV joints, and blower motors.

Reliability ratings and owner opinions

Good overall potential: Many owners and reviewers describe the Ford Flex as a generally reliable vehicle, with a comfortable ride and spacious interior. Some suggest it can easily reach over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Rating: RepairPal gives the Flex a decent 3.5 out of 5.0 rating, ranking it 7th out of 8 in its class.
Later models improved: Later models, like the 2019, received better J.D. Power scores and had the time for Ford to address some earlier issues.
Cost: The average annual ownership cost is about $713, which is considered fairly average.

What to do before buying

Check maintenance history: A thorough maintenance history is crucial, especially to see if the water pump has been replaced or if the timing chain was serviced around 100,000 miles.
Inspect the vehicle carefully: Look for signs of leaks, check the front suspension components, and listen for any unusual noises.
Consider the engine: It's generally recommended to look for models with lower mileage, especially those equipped with the Ecoboost V6 engine.

What is the best year of Ford Flex?

The best Ford Flex years are often cited as 2016 and 2019. The 2016 model is praised for having the lowest number of complaints, the more user-friendly Sync 3 infotainment system, and the availability of a non-turbo engine to avoid oil leaks. The 2019 model is noted for its overall build and driving performance and is one of the last and most refined years for the model.

You can watch this video to learn more about the Ford Flex's design and history: 58sAlphaSharkYouTube · Nov 9, 2024
Other good model years

2013: Received a significant facelift, improved engines, and is still recommended by many owners for its positive consumer reviews.
2010–2012: Considered a good choice for reliability and durability, especially the non-EcoBoost models.
2017: Also mentioned as having few complaints and a good reliability rating.
2018-2019: Praised for having better build quality and driving performance.

Factors to consider

Infotainment system: If you want the modern Sync 3 system, look for 2016 models and newer. Older models use the less intuitive MyFord Touch system.
Engine: If you want to avoid potential oil leaks in turbocharged models, consider a non-turbo version or one of the earlier models.
Price: Older models (2010-2012) can be a good value, but may have less modern features compared to newer models.

Are Ford Fusions reliable after 100k miles?

Many owners report that their Fusions run smoothly well past 100,000 miles with basic maintenance. The hybrid models, in particular, have earned praise for fuel economy and longevity.

Can a Ford Flex last 300,000 miles?

Typically, you can expect a Ford Flex to last around 200,000 miles with excellent care, according to carparts.com.

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.