Market Segment:
Full-size crossover SUV, positioned as a stylish and versatile family vehicle with a comfortable interior and available all-wheel drive.
Competitors:
Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, Dodge Durango, Mazda CX-9, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder.
Unique Selling Points:
Distinctive styling, spacious interior with tiered seating, comfortable ride, available powerful V6 engine, advanced all-wheel-drive system.
Diy Advantage:
Empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving significant costs associated with dealership or independent shop labor.
Value Proposition:
Provides access to the same detailed, factory-level information used by professional technicians.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine performance diagnostics, engine removal/installation, cylinder head, block assembly, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing systems (including timing chain/belt replacement and timing component diagnosis).
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 6F50/6F55) service and repair, including hydraulic control, torque converter, valve body, clutch packs, gear sets, sealing, diagnosis, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, CV axles, driveshafts, and related components.
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension components, including shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering knuckles, wheel bearings, and alignment procedures.
Steering Systems:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rod ends, power steering pump (if applicable), steering column, and related diagnosis.
Brake Systems:
Hydraulic brake system, including master cylinder, brake lines, brake calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, parking brake system, anti-lock braking system (ABS) diagnosis and components, electronic stability control (ESC).
Electrical Systems:
12-volt electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, instrument cluster, warning lights.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant system diagnosis and service, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control module, and cabin air filter replacement.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, liftgate, bumpers, interior trim, glass replacement, seals, chassis lubrication, frame components, exhaust system, fuel tank and lines.
Comfort And Convenience:
Power seats, sunroof operation, keyless entry, remote start, and other convenience features as applicable.
Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant checks and changes, brake fluid flushes, transmission fluid changes, differential fluid changes, tire rotation, battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all vehicle systems, including symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for virtually all parts of the vehicle.
Diagnostics:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools (e.g., OBD-II scanners), interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and performing system-specific tests.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhaul and electrical system diagnostics.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally good, with specific ratings varying by test year and configuration. Check specific year reports for precise details.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Roll Stability Control (RSC), Traction Control System (TCS), AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control, available Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), available Cross-Traffic Alert, available Adaptive Cruise Control.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), front-seat side airbags, Safety Canopy® System (rollover-sensing side-curtain airbags for all three rows), LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system, front seatbelt pretensioners, inflatable rear seatbelts (available).
Infotainment System:
Available SYNC® with MyFord Touch® infotainment system featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, voice commands, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation (optional), and media playback.
Audio Options:
Standard audio system with multiple speakers, optional premium Sony® audio system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Available features include Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Cross-Traffic Alert, rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, park assist sensors.
Connectivity Options:
USB ports, auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, available SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (synthetic recommended). Refer to the manual for specific guidance based on severe vs. normal usage.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine; typically around 100,000 miles for the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 and potentially sooner for EcoBoost (refer to manual).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, meeting Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 or equivalent (Full Synthetic Recommended).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) for 3.5L V6, 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) for 3.5L EcoBoost V6. Check manual for exact capacity.
Coolant Specification:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Gold Color), meeting Ford WSS-M97B51-A1 or equivalent. A 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water is typically used.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid.
Common Issues Powertrain:
Occasional transmission shudder or hesitant shifting, potential for water pump leaks on early models, carbon buildup in EcoBoost engines if not maintained properly.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn sway bar links, occasional front suspension clunking noises, power steering system issues (less common with electric power steering on later models).
Common Issues Electrical HVAC:
HVAC blower motor failures, issues with climate control modules, occasional electrical gremlins related to sensors or modules.
Brand Focus:
Ford Motor Company, a long-standing American automotive manufacturer known for a wide range of vehicles from trucks to cars and SUVs, with a history of innovation and mass production.
Model Introduction:
The Ford Flex was introduced for the 2009 model year as a replacement for the Ford Freestar minivan, targeting a segment of buyers seeking a stylish, spacious, and versatile alternative to traditional minivans and SUVs.
Generation Overview:
The first generation (2009-2019) received a significant facelift for the 2013 model year, which included updated exterior styling (grille, front fascia, taillights), interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements, including the introduction of the more powerful EcoBoost engine option.
Assembly Location:
Oakville Assembly Plant in Oakville, Ontario, Canada.