Positioning:
The Ford Flex is a unique three-row crossover SUV positioned in the market for families seeking a blend of SUV practicality and minivan-like interior space, with a distinctive styling.
Competitors:
Competes with vehicles such as the Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander, offering a different approach to the three-row segment.
Distinctive Styling:
The Flex is known for its polarizing, almost wagon-like or mini-SUV appearance.
Interior Space:
Offers a highly versatile and spacious interior, particularly in the second and third rows, with available captain's chairs or a bench seat.
Powertrains:
Available with a standard V6 engine and an optional EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6 for enhanced performance.
Coverage Areas:
All Models, Engines, Trim Levels, and Transmission Types
Page Count:
Not specified, but described as 'Complete' and 'A-Z' coverage
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Engine:
Detailed diagnostic, repair, and maintenance procedures for all engine variants
Transmission:
Comprehensive coverage for all transmission types, including diagnostics, repair, and fluid service
Brakes:
Complete service and repair procedures for hydraulic and electronic brake systems
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures, and module repair
Suspension:
Detailed repair and adjustment information for front and rear suspension components
Steering:
Service and repair of steering systems, including power steering components
Climate Control:
Repair and servicing of HVAC systems, including refrigerant handling and component replacement
Exhaust System:
Repair and replacement procedures for exhaust components, including catalytic converters and mufflers
Fuel System:
Service and repair of fuel delivery, injection, and evaporative emission systems
Cooling System:
Maintenance and repair of the engine cooling system, including radiators and thermostats
Body And Frame:
Repair procedures for body panels, structural components, and interior trim
Safety Systems:
Information on airbag systems, seat belts, and associated diagnostics
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, etc.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing virtually any component in the vehicle
Adjustment Procedures:
Calibration and adjustment of various systems, such as suspension and lighting
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners during assembly and repair
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for certain repairs
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions
Depth:
Covers all repair and service procedures from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds
Accessibility:
Downloadable and viewable on PC, Mac, tablets, and smartphones
Software Requirement:
Adobe Reader (free download)
Printability:
Printable (single pages, chapters, or entire manual)
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally received good ratings, though specific year ratings may vary. (Refer to NHTSA for exact 2014 data)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard AdvanceTrac with Electronic Stability Control
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Backup Camera:
Available rearview camera
Parking Sensors:
Available front and rear parking sensors
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, Safety Canopy® System with side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point safety belts with pretensioners
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Infotainment System:
SYNC® infotainment system, potentially with MyFord Touch® (touchscreen interface) depending on trim and options.
Audio Options:
SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, premium audio system options (e.g., Sony).
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available adaptive cruise control.
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available Blind Spot Information System (BLIS).
Lane Keeping Aid:
Available Lane Keeping System.
Sync Features:
Voice-activated control for audio and phone, emergency assistance (when paired with compatible phone).
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to owner's manual or integrated vehicle maintenance system; typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, for synthetic oil.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed based on conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually, depending on conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Consult manual; often considered 'lifetime' or based on severe driving conditions (e.g., towing, stop-and-go traffic), typically around 100,000-150,000 miles (160,000-240,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20, meeting Ford Specification WSS-M2C945-A or WSS-M2C946-A for 3.5L V6 / WSS-M2C937-A for 3.5L EcoBoost.
Coolant Specification:
Ford Premium Long Life Coolant (Green), meeting Ford Specification WSS-M97B51-A1.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MERCON® LV Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), meeting Ford Specification WSS-M2C938-A.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid.
Transmission Shift Quality:
Some owners have reported occasional rough shifting or hesitant acceleration, particularly in earlier models.
Powertrain Control Module:
Potential for powertrain control module (PCM) software glitches or failures requiring updates or replacement.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Occasional issues with the evaporative emission control (EVAP) system, such as purge valve or vent solenoid failures.
Thermostat Housing:
Some reports of coolant leaks from the thermostat housing on the 3.5L EcoBoost engine.
Ford Heritage:
Ford Motor Company, established in 1903, is one of the oldest and largest automotive manufacturers in the world, known for its innovation and broad range of vehicles.
Flex Introduction:
The Ford Flex was introduced for the 2009 model year, replacing the Ford Freestyle and based on the Ford D3 platform shared with the Lincoln MKT and Taurus.
Flex Updates 2014:
The 2013 model year saw a significant refresh for the Flex, with updated exterior styling (front and rear fascia, grille), interior improvements, and revised powertrain options, which carried into the 2014 model year.
Assembly Location:
Oakville Assembly Plant, Oakville, Ontario, Canada