🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Flex

Year:

2018

Generation:

Second Generation (2013-2019)

Platform:

D4 Platform (shared with Lincoln MKT)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Ford Flex is positioned as a unique, stylish, and versatile three-row crossover/SUV, often appealing to buyers seeking an alternative to traditional minivans or larger SUVs.

Competitive Analysis:

Competes with other three-row crossovers and SUVs such as the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Mazda CX-9. Its distinctive styling sets it apart.

Key Features:

Spacious interior, optional powerful V6 engine, unique exterior design, comfortable ride, and ample cargo space.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Page Count:

Not specified, but described as a complete, single PDF

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Maintenance, Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step instructions, diagnostics, maintenance, servicing, repair, wiring schematics, illustrations, diagrams

Technical Depth:

Complete, factory-level detail for technicians and advanced DIYers

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Printable, with ability to blow up images for enlarged copies

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF, printable on user-selected paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine 2018:

3.5L Ti-VCT V6

Horsepower 3.5L Ti-Vct V6:

287 hp @ 6500 rpm (approximate)

Torque 3.5L Ti-Vct V6:

252 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)

Horsepower 3.5L Ecoboost V6:

365 hp @ 5000 rpm (approximate)

Torque 3.5L Ecoboost V6:

350 lb-ft @ 1500-5250 rpm (approximate)

Fuel System 3.5L Ti Vct V6:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel System 3.5L Ecoboost V6:

Direct Injection (DI) with Turbocharging

Optional Engine 2018:

3.5L EcoBoost V6

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard 2018:

6-speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission

Transmission Optional 2018:

Not applicable, the 6-speed automatic was standard across trims.

Transmission Features 2018:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was standard for 2018 models.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

201.8 inches

Width:

78.2 inches

Height:

69.1 inches

Wheelbase:

117.9 inches

Curb Weight Approx 3.5L:

4,600 - 4,800 lbs

Curb Weight Approx 3.5L Ecoboost:

4,800 - 5,000 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:

5-Star (for models equipped with specific safety options, verify specific vehicle configuration)

Active Safety Features:

Available: Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front-side airbags, side-curtain airbags for all rows, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM Radio, and navigation (optional).

Driver Assistance Features:

Available features include front and rear parking sensors, rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Connectivity Features:

SYNC Connect with Wi-Fi hotspot (subscription-based), USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval 3.5L V6:

10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions (using synthetic oil).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles

Engine Coolant Flush Interval:

Consult manual, typically every 50,000 - 100,000 miles depending on coolant type.

Engine Oil Specification 3.5L V6:

SAE 5W-30, meeting Ford WSS-M2C946-B1 specification (Synthetic)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Mercon LV Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), meeting Ford WSS-M2C938-A

Coolant Type:

Ford Ultimate Engine Coolant (Blue) or equivalent meeting Ford WSS-M97B44-D2 specification

Common Issues 2018 Flex:

Potential for transmission shudder (especially earlier models), occasional issues with water pumps or cooling system components, and electronic module failures. Turbocharger issues are more common on EcoBoost variants.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Ford Motor Company, established in 1903, is one of the oldest and largest automotive manufacturers globally, known for innovations like the assembly line and iconic models such as the Model T and Mustang.

Model Evolution Flex:

The Ford Flex was introduced for the 2009 model year as a 2009 model. It was based on the Ford Fairlane concept and underwent a significant refresh for the 2013 model year, which included updated styling and powertrain enhancements. The 2018 model represents the second generation, carrying over the refreshed design from 2013.

Production Location Flex:

Oakville Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognition Flex 2018:

While specific awards for the 2018 model may not be widely publicized, the Flex has been recognized in the past for its practicality and innovative design. Safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS are key industry benchmarks.