🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Flex

Year:

2012

Platform:

D3 platform (shared with Ford Taurus, Ford Explorer, Lincoln MKS)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, and DIY enthusiasts.

Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level technical data and repair procedures at a fraction of the cost of professional labor, enabling significant savings and empowering users with knowledge.

Accuracy And Specificity:

Emphasizes that the information is not generic but specific to the 2012 Ford Flex, ensuring precise guidance for repairs.

Comprehensiveness:

Covers all models and virtually every repair procedure from A to Z, offering complete coverage for the vehicle.

Accessibility:

Provided in a digital PDF format compatible with major operating systems, with the ability to print selected pages for on-site use.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Specific Systems Covered:

Maintenance, Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Condition, Suppl 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

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed page count not specified, but described as 'complete' and comprehensive.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (electronic document)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Detailed coverage of all engine types, including diagnostics, repair procedures, fuel system, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting, and charging systems.

Drivetrain Systems:

Comprehensive information on automatic transmissions, clutches, manual transmissions (if applicable to specific models), transfer cases, drive shafts, differentials, axles, and suspension components.

Braking And Steering Systems:

In-depth coverage of brake systems (including ABS and parking brake), steering column, and power steering systems.

Electrical And Electronics Systems:

Extensive details on electrical systems, including wiring schematics, multiplexed communications (CAN bus), supplementary restraint systems (airbags), seat belts, engine immobilizers, cruise control, wipers, washers, door locks, meters, audio/visual systems, horns, and lighting.

HVAC And Body Systems:

Detailed coverage of air conditioning systems, as well as body components including windshields, mirrors, instrument panels, seats, engine hoods, doors, and exterior/interior trim.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including troubleshooting charts and flow diagrams.

Repair And Rebuild Procedures:

Complete step-by-step instructions for maintenance, repair, and rebuilding of all vehicle components and systems.

Maintenance And Servicing:

Detailed guidance on routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, and scheduled servicing.

Wiring And Schematics:

Inclusion of complete wiring schematics for all electrical systems, enabling accurate diagnosis and repair of electrical faults.

Depth Of Information:

Factory-level detail, identical to manuals used by dealership technicians. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complex engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows and Mac

Printability:

All pages are printable. Ability to blow up images and print enlarged copies.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital format). Offers the flexibility to print only required pages.

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital format). Eliminates physical wear and tear common with paper manuals.

Searchability:

Implicitly searchable PDF format, allowing users to quickly find specific information.

Usability:

Single PDF file for easy navigation, eliminating the need to flip through multiple books. Enables printing of specific pages for workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely includes the 3.5L Duratec V6 (Cyclone) engine. The 3.7L Cyclone V6 and EcoBoost variants were also available in other model years but need confirmation for 2012 Flex specifics. Manual covers all engine options.

Horsepower Torque:

Specific figures depend on the engine option. The 3.5L typically produced around 262 hp and 249 lb-ft of torque. The manual will provide precise figures for all variants.

Fuel Delivery:

Likely multi-port fuel injection (MPFI) or direct injection (DI) depending on the engine variant. Manual details fuel system components, pressure, and service procedures.

Oil Type Capacity:

Likely SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Capacity typically around 5.5-6 quarts. Manual specifies exact oil type and capacity for each engine.

Emission Systems:

Covers emission control systems, including catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, and evaporative emission control (EVAP).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission (6F50/6F55)

Type:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) was an available option for most configurations.

Transmission Fluid:

Mercon LV (or equivalent specification for the 6F50/6F55 transmission). Manual will specify exact fluid type and change intervals.

Ratios:

Manual will provide specific gear ratios for the 6-speed automatic transmission for all configurations.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 201.8 inches (5126 mm)

Width:

Approximately 78.2 inches (1986 mm)

Height:

Approximately 66.1 inches (1679 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 117.9 inches (2995 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, typically ranging from 4,400 to 4,700 lbs (2000-2130 kg).

Cargo Volume:

Behind 3rd row: ~20 cu ft. Behind 2nd row: ~43 cu ft. Behind 1st row: ~83 cu ft.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

The 2012 Ford Flex received generally good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. Manual will detail specific test results and potential recalls.

Stability Control:

Standard AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control.

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and Safety Canopy side-curtain airbags for all rows.

Seat Belts:

3-point safety belts for all seating positions with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Sync System:

Likely features the Ford SYNC voice-recognition communication and entertainment system, with options for SYNC with MyFord Touch in higher trims. Manual covers operation and basic troubleshooting.

Parking Assist:

Optional rearview camera and available reverse parking sensors. Manual details operation and maintenance.

Usb Aux Inputs:

Likely equipped with USB and auxiliary audio input jacks for media devices. Manual details connectivity options.

Navigation System:

Optional navigation system available, likely integrated with the SYNC or MyFord Touch system. Manual provides operational guidance.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or as indicated by the Intelligent Oil Life Monitor system. The manual will detail specific recommendations based on driving conditions.

Tire Rotation:

Recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Typically around 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km), or as indicated by severity of use. Manual will provide precise intervals.

Coolant Type:

Ford Premium Engine Coolant (VC-9) or equivalent. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid. Manual will specify exact type and bleeding procedures.

Common Problems:

Potential issues may include water pump leaks (especially on early models), transmission shifting concerns, and occasional electrical glitches. The manual provides detailed troubleshooting for these and other potential issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford History:

Ford Motor Company, founded in 1903, has a long and storied history in automotive manufacturing, known for innovation and popular models like the Model T, F-Series trucks, and Mustang.

Flex Introduction:

The Ford Flex was introduced for the 2009 model year as a 2009 model. It was designed as a three-row crossover utility vehicle with a distinctive, retro-inspired styling, intended to fill a niche between traditional SUVs and minivans.

Manufacturing Location:

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

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

The Ford Flex has received various safety accolades from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in previous model years. The manual implicitly supports these through detailed safety system information.