Positioning:
The Ford Flex is positioned as a distinctive, spacious, and versatile crossover SUV, appealing to families and individuals seeking a unique alternative to traditional SUVs and minivans.
Competitors:
Competes with vehicles like the Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, and Mazda CX-9, offering a blend of SUV utility and wagon-like comfort.
Design:
Unique 'long wagon' styling, spacious three-row seating, and a comfortable ride.
Manual Value:
Provides dealer-level diagnostic and repair information, empowering DIY enthusiasts and independent repair shops.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, component inspection, timing, cooling, lubrication, and more.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, sensors, actuators, wiring diagrams, ECM diagnostics.
Emission Control:
EVAP system, PCV system, catalytic converter, emission sensors, diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure, fuel filter, tank service, fuel lines.
Clutch System:
Clutch operation, hydraulic system, clutch disc and pressure plate service (if applicable to specific transmissions).
Manual Transaxle:
Manual transmission overhaul, component replacement, fluid specifications, shift linkage.
Automatic Transaxle:
Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, valve body, solenoids, fluid service, electronic controls.
Driveshaft Axle:
Front and rear driveshafts, CV axles, universal joints, differential service.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, coil springs, control arms, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering column, tie rod ends, steering angle sensor.
Restraint System:
Airbag system components, seat belts, SRS module, diagnostics and service procedures.
Brake System:
Brake pads, rotors, calipers, master cylinder, ABS system, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Body Interior Exterior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, trim, seals, body repair procedures.
Body Electrical:
Lighting systems, power windows, power locks, mirrors, interior electronics, wiring diagrams.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant, diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and rebuilding procedures for all covered systems.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic trees, scan tool usage, sensor testing, module programming.
Depth:
Factory level, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Length:
Approximately 201.8 inches
Width:
Approximately 78.2 inches
Height:
Approximately 67.8 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 117.9 inches
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 20.0 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 43.2 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approximately 83.2 cubic feet
Curb Weight FWD:
Approximately 4,568 lbs
Curb Weight AWD:
Approximately 4,778 lbs
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally good, often rated 5-star in frontal and side crash tests, 4-star in rollover.
ABS:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Roll Stability Control (RSC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front-seat side airbags, Safety Canopy® side-curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point safety belts in all seating positions, with pretensioners and load-limiting retractors for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (as indicated by the Intelligent Oil Life Monitor).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended around 100,000 to 150,000 miles, or as per severe service schedule outlined in the manual.
Coolant Change:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter for Ford's Gold Coolant.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend (meeting Ford Specification WSS-M2C946-A)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) for the 3.5L V6, 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) for the 3.5L EcoBoost.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid
Common Problems:
Potential issues may include early wear on transmission solenoids, water pump leaks, and occasional throttle body concerns. Turbocharger issues are possible on EcoBoost models if maintenance is neglected.
Manual Utility For Issues:
The manual provides detailed diagnostic procedures and repair steps to address these and other potential issues.