🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Flex

Year:

2017

Platform:

D4 Platform (shared with Lincoln MKT)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Ford Flex is a distinctive three-row crossover SUV known for its spacious interior, unique styling, and comfortable ride, often positioned as an alternative to traditional minivans and larger SUVs.

Competitors:

Competes with vehicles like the Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, Dodge Journey, and Honda Pilot.

Features:

Spacious seating for up to seven passengers, available AWD, powerful engine options, flexible cargo space, and a comfortable, quiet cabin.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types for the 2017 Ford Flex.

Page Count:

Not Specified (Comprehensive Workshop Manual)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (PDF compatible)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, ignition system, exhaust system, powertrain control modules (PCM).

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (likely 6F50/6F55), operation, diagnosis, removal, installation, and overhaul.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front-wheel drive components, axle and drive shaft service.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering rack, tie rods, diagnosis and repair.

Brakes:

Front and rear brakes, hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid specifications.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, body control modules (BCM), instrument cluster, infotainment system wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant service, component replacement.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, mirrors, sunroof, body repair, rust prevention.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections, belt checks.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting common faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using diagnostic scan tools, electrical system diagnosis.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension repairs, and electrical component replacement.

Installation:

Procedures for installing new or replacement parts, including timing belt/chain, water pump, alternators, starters, and more.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Compatible with all PC and MAC computers, tablets, and smartphones via Adobe Reader or compatible PDF viewer.

Quality:

High quality, clear text and images suitable for printing individual pages, chapters, or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.5L naturally aspirated V6 (287 hp, 255 lb-ft torque) and 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6 (365 hp, 350 lb-ft torque).

Engine Performance:

The 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 offers balanced power for everyday driving, while the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 provides significantly enhanced acceleration and towing capability.

Fuel Delivery:

Port Fuel Injection (PFI) for the naturally aspirated 3.5L V6; Direct Injection (DI) for the 3.5L EcoBoost V6.

Engine Codes:

Cyclone V6 (for 3.5L variants)

Coolant Type:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (yellow) or equivalent meeting specification WSS-M97B51-A1. Capacity: Approximately 11.0-11.5 quarts (10.4-10.9 liters) for 3.5L V6.

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C946-A. Oil Capacity: Approximately 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) for 3.5L V6.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission (6F50 for FWD, 6F55 for AWD).

Optional Transmission:

N/A (All models utilize the 6-speed automatic).

Transmission Features:

SelectShift manual control, driver-selectable mode, integrated brake shift interlock.

Transmission Fluid:

MERCON ULV (Ultra Low Viscosity). Capacity: Approximately 9.3-10.8 quarts (8.8-10.2 liters) depending on FWD/AWD.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 201.8 inches (5126 mm)

Width:

Approximately 78.8 inches (2002 mm) excluding mirrors

Height:

Approximately 68.0 inches (1727 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 117.9 inches (2995 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approximately 156.0 cubic feet (4.42 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approximately 20.0 cubic feet (0.57 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approximately 43.2 cubic feet (1.22 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approximately 83.2 cubic feet (2.35 cubic meters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4,400 - 4,700 lbs (2000 - 2130 kg) depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) with optional towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Likely received a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA for the generation (specific 2017 ratings may vary).

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Rearview Camera, available Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Cross-Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), front-seat side airbags, Safety Canopy System (side-curtain airbags for all rows), front-seat active head restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Available SiriusXM Satellite Radio, navigation system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of technologies, including Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and a rearview camera.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB ports, available Wi-Fi hotspot.

Lighting Technology:

Available HID (High-Intensity Discharge) headlamps, LED taillamps, ambient interior lighting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend oil. May vary based on driving conditions and oil quality.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as part of oil change service.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), but inspect more frequently. The 3.5L EcoBoost may require more frequent checks.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Typically every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Consult manual, but typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for MERCON ULV fluid under normal driving conditions. Severe driving may require earlier service.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or Motorcraft High Performance DOT 3 Brake Fluid (WSS-M6C65-A).

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual, typically a specific hydraulic fluid or MERCON LV. Ford recommends using Motorcraft Power Steering Fluid.

Common Issues:

Some owners have reported issues with the active grille shutters on EcoBoost models, water pump leaks, and potential transmission shifting concerns. The manual would detail diagnosis and repair for these and other potential problems.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Motorcraft FL-500S or equivalent.

Engine Air Filter Part Number:

Motorcraft FA-1924 or equivalent.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Heritage:

Ford Motor Company, founded in 1903, is one of the world's leading automakers, known for its innovation, mass production techniques (e.g., the assembly line), and a broad range of vehicles from trucks to performance cars.

Flex Evolution:

The Ford Flex was introduced for the 2009 model year as a 2009.5 model. It was designed to be a crossover SUV with a unique, boxy styling reminiscent of a modern station wagon or 'hot rod' influence. The 2013 model year brought a significant facelift with revised exterior styling and interior updates, which carried through to the 2017 model year.

Production Location:

Built at the Oakville Assembly Plant in Oakville, Ontario, Canada.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Past Awards:

While specific 2017 awards are not prominently highlighted, the Ford Flex has historically been recognized for its spaciousness and comfort, often appearing on 'best family car' lists.

IIHS Ratings:

The Ford Flex generation has generally performed well in IIHS crash tests, often earning 'Top Safety Pick' or similar ratings, depending on the specific year and equipment.