What drive is a Ford Flex?
The Ford Flex is driven primarily by front-wheel drive (FWD) with an optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system on higher trims; there is no rear-wheel-drive option.
Produced from 2009 through 2019, the Flex offered AWD mainly on SEL, Limited, and Titanium trims, using Ford's Intelligent AWD system to improve traction in rain or snow while preserving efficiency when running in FWD.
Drivetrain options
Overview of the main configurations available across Flex models.
- Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) across all Ford Flex models.
- Optional all-wheel drive (AWD) on higher trims (SEL, Limited, Titanium) in most model years, marketed as Intelligent AWD.
In everyday use, AWD helps with slippery conditions, while FWD generally provides better fuel economy and lower cost in dry weather.
How Intelligent AWD works
Ford's Intelligent AWD system on the Flex monitors wheel spin, throttle input, steering, and road conditions. When wheel slip is detected, torque is automatically redirected to the rear axle to improve traction, and in normal conditions the vehicle may operate primarily in FWD to maximize efficiency.
Practical notes
Engagement of AWD is automatic and seamless; it is designed for on-road weather—snow, ice, rain—and is not a substitute for off-road equipment or rugged terrain.
Model-year notes
Drive configurations across typical Flex trims:
- Base SE and lower trims commonly came with FWD as standard.
- Higher trims (SEL, Limited, Titanium) commonly offered AWD as an option, or even as standard in later years, depending on the model year and region.
Availability varied by year and market; verify the exact drivetrain on any specific used Flex you’re considering.
Summary
The Ford Flex offers standard front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive on many higher trims. Production ran from 2009 to 2019, after which Ford discontinued the model. If you need better traction in bad weather, AWD is helpful; otherwise, FWD is typically sufficient for daily driving. Always confirm the drivetrain on a specific vehicle you’re evaluating.
What is the most common problem with the Ford Flex?
Top Ford Flex Problems
- Broken Center Console Latch.
- Brake Noise – Front Grunting / Grinding.
- Transmission (Red) or Power Transfer Unit (PTU) (Brown) Fluid Leaks at Axle Area.
- A/C Fan Speed Changing Constantly.
- Ford Flex window and door trim detachment issue requiring multiple panel replacements.
Is the Ford Flex rear wheel drive?
No, the Ford Flex is not rear-wheel drive; it comes standard as front-wheel drive with all-wheel drive available as an option on most trims. The base models are front-wheel drive, while SEL and Limited models offer a choice between front-wheel or all-wheel drive, and the Limited EcoBoost was all-wheel drive only.
You can watch this video for a walkaround of a Ford Flex Limited AWD: 56sCar Guy CroissantYouTube · Aug 12, 2022
- Standard: The standard configuration for the Ford Flex is front-wheel drive.
- Optional: All-wheel drive was available as an option on many models, including the SEL and Limited trims.
- Specific trims: Some models, like the Limited EcoBoost, were all-wheel drive only.
Is the Ford Flex AWD or FWD?
Design overview. The Ford Flex was based on the Ford D4 chassis architecture, a version of the D3 platform re-engineered for use for multiple wheelbases. The model line was offered with front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive as an option.
Is the 2010 Ford Flex AWD or FWD?
The 2010 Ford Flex comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 producing 262 hp and 248 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard with this engine and all-wheel drive is optional.
