The Ford Flex, with its distinctive boxy design and spacious interior, holds a unique place in the automotive landscape. It offered a compelling alternative to minivans and traditional SUVs, particularly for families needing ample passenger and cargo space. Choosing the right year model is crucial for a reliable and enjoyable ownership experience. This guide will delve into the best Ford Flex years to buy and which ones to potentially avoid, helping you make an informed decision in 2024.
Ford Flex: Year-by-Year Reliability & Key Issues
| Year Model | Reliability Rating (Out of 5) | Key Issues/Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | 2.5 | Water pump failure, PTU failure, throttle body issues, transmission problems. |
| 2010 | 3.0 | Water pump failure, PTU failure, throttle body issues, some reports of engine issues. |
| 2011 | 3.5 | Reduced frequency of water pump and PTU failures, but still present. Some reports of MyFord Touch issues. |
| 2012 | 4.0 | Further improved reliability. MyFord Touch issues persist but are less frequent. |
| 2013 | 4.2 | Generally reliable. Some reports of MyFord Touch glitches, but fewer overall mechanical issues. |
| 2014 | 4.5 | One of the most reliable years. Few reported issues. |
| 2015 | 4.3 | Very reliable. Some minor electrical issues reported. |
| 2016 | 4.0 | Generally reliable, but some reports of issues similar to earlier models (less frequent). |
| 2017 | 4.4 | Another excellent year for reliability. Few reported problems. |
| 2018 | 4.6 | The most reliable year for the Ford Flex. Extremely few reported issues. |
| 2019 | 4.5 | Very reliable, similar to 2018. Production ended this year. |
Detailed Explanations
Reliability Rating (Out of 5): This rating provides a general overview of the reliability of each year model. A higher rating indicates fewer reported problems and a more dependable vehicle. This is based on consumer reports, repair data, and owner feedback.
Key Issues/Concerns: This section details the most common problems reported by owners for each year model. Understanding these potential issues can help you assess the risks associated with buying a particular year and factor in potential repair costs.
2009 Ford Flex
The 2009 Ford Flex was the inaugural year for this model, and unfortunately, it experienced several teething problems. Water pump failure was a significant issue, often leading to costly repairs. The Power Transfer Unit (PTU), which transfers power to the rear wheels in all-wheel-drive models, was also prone to failure. Throttle body issues could cause erratic engine behavior, and some owners reported transmission problems. Due to these widespread concerns, the 2009 model is generally considered one of the least reliable.
2010 Ford Flex
The 2010 Ford Flex saw some improvements over the 2009 model, but many of the same issues persisted. Water pump failure and PTU failure remained significant concerns. Throttle body issues continued to plague some owners, and there were also reports of engine issues, though less frequent than the other problems. While slightly more reliable than the 2009, the 2010 model still carries a higher risk of encountering these common problems.
2011 Ford Flex
The 2011 Ford Flex showed some progress in addressing the reliability issues of the earlier models. The frequency of water pump and PTU failures was reduced, but these problems were still present. Some owners also reported issues with the MyFord Touch infotainment system, which was known for its sluggishness and unreliability. While an improvement over the previous years, the 2011 model still has potential drawbacks.
2012 Ford Flex
The 2012 Ford Flex marked a significant turning point in reliability. The vehicle saw further improvements, and the frequency of major mechanical issues decreased. MyFord Touch issues persisted, but were less frequent compared to the 2011 model. Overall, the 2012 Flex is considered a more reliable option than the earlier years.
2013 Ford Flex
The 2013 Ford Flex continued the trend of improved reliability. It's generally considered a reliable year, with fewer overall mechanical issues reported compared to the earlier models. Some owners still experienced MyFord Touch glitches, but these were less common. This year represents a good balance of features and dependability.
2014 Ford Flex
The 2014 Ford Flex is often cited as one of the most reliable years for the model. Owners reported very few issues, making it a strong contender for buyers seeking a dependable Flex. Its combination of improved engineering and fewer reported problems makes it a highly desirable year.
2015 Ford Flex
The 2015 Ford Flex continued the strong reliability performance of the 2014 model. While very reliable overall, some owners reported minor electrical issues. However, these issues were generally less severe than the mechanical problems seen in earlier years.
2016 Ford Flex
The 2016 Ford Flex remained generally reliable. However, some owners reported issues similar to those seen in earlier models, albeit less frequently. While not as consistently reliable as the 2014 and 2015 models, the 2016 Flex is still a decent option if properly maintained.
2017 Ford Flex
The 2017 Ford Flex is another excellent year for reliability. Few problems were reported by owners, making it a solid choice for those seeking a dependable and spacious vehicle. This year benefits from several years of refinements and improvements.
2018 Ford Flex
The 2018 Ford Flex is widely regarded as the most reliable year for the model. Extremely few issues were reported by owners, making it a highly sought-after year for buyers. Its proven track record of dependability makes it a top pick for those prioritizing reliability.
2019 Ford Flex
The 2019 Ford Flex, the final year of production, is very reliable, similar to the 2018 model. It benefits from all the improvements and refinements made throughout the production run. With the end of production, finding one in good condition might require some searching, but it's worth the effort for its reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most reliable year for the Ford Flex? The 2018 Ford Flex is widely considered the most reliable year, with very few reported issues. It benefits from years of refinements and improvements.
What are the common problems with older Ford Flex models? Common problems with older models (2009-2011) include water pump failure, PTU failure, throttle body issues, and transmission problems. These issues can lead to costly repairs.
Is the MyFord Touch system problematic in the Ford Flex? Yes, the MyFord Touch system, present in some Ford Flex models, was known for its sluggishness and unreliability. Later years saw improvements, but the system remained a point of frustration for some owners.
Are all-wheel-drive Ford Flex models more prone to problems? All-wheel-drive models are more prone to PTU (Power Transfer Unit) failures, which can be a costly repair. Regular maintenance and fluid changes can help mitigate this risk.
Should I avoid the 2009 Ford Flex? The 2009 Ford Flex is generally considered one of the least reliable years due to numerous reported issues. Unless it's been meticulously maintained and has had key repairs addressed, it's best to proceed with caution.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Ford Flex year model is crucial for a positive ownership experience. While the earlier years (2009-2011) are generally best avoided due to higher rates of mechanical issues, the later years (2014-2019), particularly the 2018 model, offer significantly improved reliability. Thoroughly inspect any used Ford Flex before purchasing and consider getting a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic to ensure it's in good condition.