What years are best for Ford Flex?

The Ford Flex is a versatile and spacious crossover SUV that has been on the market since 2009. While the Flex has had a relatively long production run, some model years stand out as being particularly good choices for buyers. Based on expert reviews and consumer feedback, the best years for the Ford Flex are 2013-2019.

Why 2013-2019 are the Best Years for the Ford Flex

The Ford Flex underwent a significant redesign in 2013, which brought several improvements that made it a more appealing and capable vehicle. Some of the key upgrades included:

• Refined Styling: The 2013 Flex featured a more modern and distinctive exterior design, with a bolder front grille and updated lighting elements.


• Improved Powertrain: New engine options, including a turbocharged EcoBoost V6, provided more power and better fuel efficiency.


• Enhanced Technology: The 2013 Flex introduced more advanced infotainment and safety features, such as Ford's SYNC system and available blind-spot monitoring.


• Refined Handling: Suspension and steering upgrades resulted in a more composed and responsive driving experience.

These improvements, combined with the Flex's already spacious and versatile interior, made the 2013-2019 model years some of the most well-rounded and desirable versions of the vehicle.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Ford Flex

While the 2013-2019 Ford Flex models are generally considered the best, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind when shopping for a used Flex:

• Mileage and Condition: As with any used vehicle, it's important to carefully inspect the Flex's mileage and overall condition, regardless of the model year.


• Maintenance History: Look for a Flex that has been well-maintained, with a complete service record, to ensure it has been properly cared for.


• Trim Level and Options: The Flex is available in several trim levels, so consider your specific needs and budget when selecting the right configuration.

By focusing on the 2013-2019 model years and considering the overall condition and maintenance history, you can find a used Ford Flex that offers excellent value and a great driving experience.

How many miles is too many for a Ford Flex?

Standard mileage for the Ford Flex is around 200,000 miles, which means that the high mileage point for the Ford Flex is around 150,000 miles. At this point in the lifespan of the Ford Flex, you're far more likely to encounter some serious issues that could lead to excessive spending of money down the line.

Is the Ford Flex a good 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 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.

What is the most reliable Ford of all time?

Let's check out some of the most reliable Ford vehicles.

• Ford F-150: America's Best-Selling Trustworthy Truck.
• Ford Explorer: The Dependable Family SUV.
• Ford Ranger: The Versatile and Reliable Compact Truck.
• Ford Fusion: The Reliable Midsize Sedan.
• Ford Escape: Reliable Compact SUV for Daily Drives.