Which Ford Flex Years to Avoid and Why? (Explained)

Ford Flex is a standard SUV 4WD. The production of this vehicle began in 2008 and lasted through 2019. So, it only has one generation lineup of vehicles.

The Ford Flex years to avoid are 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014 and 2015. The main problems integrated were engine problems, electrical issues, alternator problems, bad fuel delivery module, transmission and other internal or external mechanical issues.

Were these problems enough to shut down the Ford Flex? When buying old models, which years should you actually consider? Find out all the answers in this detailed article.

Ford Flex Years to Avoid (List of Years)

Since its troubles begin at lower mileage, Ford Flex 2010 is the poorest model in the lineup. Faulty MyFord Touch Technology, bulged lug nuts and throttle body failure are among the models from terrible years.

Other problems include door ajar light issues and cooling fan modules that are not working, as well as electrical system issues and airbags that are not working.

What Are the Worst Years of Ford Flex?

Here are the Ford Flex years to avoid:

  • 2009: Broken center console latch, brake noise, fluid leaks at axle area, transmission (Red) or power transfer unit (PTU)  problems, A/C fan speed changing constantly.
  • 2010: Broken center console latch, brake noise, fluid leaks at axle area, transmission (Red) or power transfer unit (PTU)  problems, A/C fan speed changing constantly, brakes dragging (rear).
  • 2013: Electric system, body integrity.
  • 2014: Electric system, brakes.
  • 2015: Suspension, fuel system, parking brake.

What Makes These Ford Flex Years Worth Avoiding?

What are the actual problems that occur during the bad years? How do they manifest? In this section below I will discuss exactly that.

1. Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Problems:

All-wheel-drive (AWD) transfer cases like the PTU are found in a wide range of automobiles and SUVs. The PTU’s job is to move power from the vehicle’s rear axle to the front wheels via a gearbox.

You may notice some dark black oily spots on the garage floor. This happens when it becomes too hot. The engine block, transmission, and catalytic converter are sources of heat exposure. The fluid gets discharged thanks to an internal vent tube.

PTU fails if the leaked fluid is brimming with metal shavings. You can expect to pay between $400 and $600 to fix a PTU if the problem is related to leaks.

You should expect to pay a substantially higher repair fee if the PTU’s internal components are damaged, often necessitating a complete replacement.

2. Fuel System Failure:

The fuel pump’s electric module (PEM) component may overheat. This results in a loss of fuel pump power. The risk of crash increases if the fuel pump loses power, causing the engine to stall or the vehicle to not start.

Reports also said fuel delivery mechanisms developing a crack. Consequently, fuel loss would occur. This was the biggest problem with the 2013 model year. An electrical circuit may catch on fire because of the oozing oil.

Some 2013-2015 Ford Taurus, Flex, Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT vehicles were recalled. These were equipped with 3.5L GTDI Ecoboost engines. Moreover, some 2013-2015 Taurus Police Interceptor vehicles were also recalled by Ford Motor Company.

3. Suspension Problems:

The toe links of the rear suspension may break under the weight of the vehicle. There is an increased chance of an accident as a result of this. Because a rapid shift in vehicle control occurs.

Suspension problems on Ford’s 2009 Flex caused the braking system to malfunction. This happened due to the lower control arm and top control arm failing. The truck is difficult to keep in place.

Vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack were recalled by Ford Motor Company (Ford). This was for model years 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT, Flex, and Taurus.

4. Problem With Factory Assembled Brake:

The common symptom is the slight grinding noise from the rear brakes. Rear-wheel brake mechanisms cause the brake pads in the rear to wear out more quickly than those in the front.

Damage to any braking component is directly related to how you drive. Squealing or screeching when braking is one of the more common symptoms. But you may also notice the following: vibration in the steering wheel or pedal, grinding noise when the brakes are applied, burning odor, and brake warning lights when a problem is present.

While braking, the 2014 Ford Flex jerks to one side. When it comes to 2014 Ford Flex brake pads, they are expected to last anywhere from 30,000 miles to 70,000 miles.

5. A/C Fan Issue:

The blower motor in Ford Flex’s air conditioning system blows hot or cold air through the AC vents. The most typical causes of a blower motor to stop working include a blown fuse, a defective relay, a resistor or control module problem, and a faulty blower motor.

When you turn on the AC in your Flex, the air will not come out of the vents if the blower motor fails for any of the above causes. In other circumstances, a burning plastic odor or smoke is emitted from the AC vents when the fan speed is set to high. It’s a sign of the air conditioner malfunctioning. When operating the heater or air conditioner in the 2009-2016 Ford Flex with automated climate control, the fan speed may fluctuate often.

This AC fan malfunctions commonly on a 2009 model. Reduce the fan speed as low as possible. And you’ll find that it alternates between low and medium speeds, unable to stay at the least setting.

6. Problem With Electric System:

The unit that handles all of the sync operations, as well as front cabin vent selection, stops operating. You may 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 capabilities, aux input, and USB port may also cease to work. The sensor on the automobile doors would fail and the vehicle would repeatedly process that a door is open. The backup camera may function intermittently.

Several reports alleged that the automated system handling the entertainment and several other features of the cars were unresponsive or slow.

Moreover, the car’s alarm system may go off erratically and frequently. This happens while the car is parked and locked. Automatic door locks may not work when the car is moving.

Which Ford Flex Years Are Safe to Buy Used?

In terms of long-term quality, models built after the 2013 refresh get a slightly higher score. Non-turbocharge Flexes may be attractive to people seeking a low-cost, early model vehicle for daily commuting.

The years 2016-19 are better picks. For the first time ever, most modern minivans don’t offer all-wheel drive as an option. The turbocharged engine is ideal for adventurous people too.

Ford’s new Sync3 technology was added to the Flex for the 2016 model year. However, the usual interface was changed by a small square screen full of small buttons, which resulted in an enhanced optional touchscreen. Earlier models didn’t give you as much of a choice.

  • 2016 Ford Flex
  • 2017 Ford Flex
  • 2018 Ford Flex
  • 2019 Ford Flex

Conclusion

The Ford Flex is a car many users dearly miss. Since they have been discontinued, old cars became popular with users. But it is necessary to steer clear of Ford Flex years to avoid. Hope this article clears that out for you.

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