Ford Flex (2009–2019) Technical Guide — DTC, Fluids & Parts | TroubleAtlas

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Ford Flex (2009–2019)
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FORD FLEX (2009–2019) — Verified Specs, Fluids & OBD2

Built 2009–2019 · all production years covered on this single page

3.5L V6 EcoBoost • Gasoline

Ford Flex (2009–2019)

© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA

5 Common problems View details →
29 OBD2 codes View details →
14 Recalls / TSB View details →
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Ford Flex (2009–2019) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliability
n/a
Safety & recalls
n/a
Repair cost
5.2
Parts & repairability
5.8
Maintenance & durability
8.7
Documentation & support
6.0
★ How we calculate this → Methodology
TROUBLEATLAS · SCOREINDEPENDENT · VERIFIED★★TA6.4/10
Independent · Verified · Never for sale

Every figure on this Ford Flex (2009–2019) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.

The Ford Flex (2009–2019) uses Motorcraft 5W-20 Synthetic Blend engine oil. Its battery is group 96R (BCI), rated at 800A cold-cranking amps. It is powered by a 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine. Its OEM tyre size is 215/55 R16. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.

⚠️ COMMON PROBLEMS
Engine overheatingFREQUENT

Engine temperature over limits — check coolant level, thermostat and radiator.

Related codes: P0217

Oil pressure sensor: low signalFREQUENT

ECU detects insufficient oil pressure — check oil level and sensor.

Related codes: P0522

Insufficient oil pressureFREQUENT

Oil pressure below critical threshold — stop the engine and check immediately.

Related codes: P0524

Engine control module (PCM) faultFREQUENT

Faulty ECU processor — requires specialist workshop diagnosis.

Related codes: P0606

Throttle actuatorFREQUENT

Throttle actuator motor circuit open — loss of throttle response.

Related codes: P2100

🔧 COMMON REPAIRS
🔧
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.8h
€56 – €72
🔧
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.9h
€63 – €81
🛢
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.3h
€21 – €27
🔧
ABS Module
Difficulty: Medium
2.0h
€140 – €180
💰 AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS

Prices may vary by area and workshop.

🔧
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
🛑
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
⚡
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
📊
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
⏱️ OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)

Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.

Brakes8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
ABS Module2.0h€ 90–€ 150
ABS Pump2.5h€ 112–€ 187
ABS Tone Ring1.5h€ 67–€ 112
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front0.8h€ 36–€ 60
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Brake Bleed - All Four1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Brake Booster2.5h€ 112–€ 187
Brake Booster Check Valve0.3h€ 13–€ 22
Cooling8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Coolant Bypass Pipe1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Coolant Flush1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Coolant Reservoir0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Coolant Temperature Sensor0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Cooling Fan Assembly1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Cooling Fan Clutch1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Cooling Fan Motor1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Cooling Fan Relay0.3h€ 13–€ 22
Electrical8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Airbag - Driver1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Airbag - Passenger1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Airbag - Side2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Airbag Module/Computer1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Alternator1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Alternator Belt0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Amplifier1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Antenna0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Engine8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Boost Pressure Sensor0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Camshaft Position Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Camshaft R&R8.0h€ 360–€ 600
Connecting Rod Bearings15.0h€ 675–€ 1125
Crankshaft Position Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Crankshaft R&R20.0h€ 900–€ 1500
Cylinder Head R&R6.0h€ 270–€ 450
Cylinder Head Resurface8.0h€ 360–€ 600
Exhaust8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Air Injection Check Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Catalytic Converter - California1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Catalytic Converter - Universal2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Downpipe2.0h€ 90–€ 150
EGR Cooler3.0h€ 135–€ 225
EGR Tube1.5h€ 67–€ 112
EGR Valve1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Fuel system8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Charcoal Canister1.0h€ 45–€ 75
EVAP Purge Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
EVAP Vent Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Fuel Cap0.1h€ 4–€ 7
Fuel Filler Neck1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Fuel Filter0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Fuel Filter - In-Tank2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Fuel Injector - Single1.0h€ 45–€ 75
HVAC8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
AC Accumulator1.5h€ 67–€ 112
AC Clutch Coil1.5h€ 67–€ 112
AC Compressor2.5h€ 112–€ 187
AC Compressor Clutch2.0h€ 90–€ 150
AC Compressor Oil Add0.5h€ 22–€ 37
AC Condenser2.5h€ 112–€ 187
AC Evaporator6.0h€ 270–€ 450
AC Expansion Valve (TXV)4.0h€ 180–€ 300
Steering8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Center Link/Drag Link1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Electric Power Steering Module1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Electric Power Steering Motor2.5h€ 112–€ 187
Idler Arm1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Pitman Arm1.2h€ 54–€ 90
Power Steering Fluid Flush0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Power Steering Gear Box3.5h€ 157–€ 262
Power Steering Hose - High Pressure1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Suspension8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Air Line1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Air Spring/Air Bag1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Air Suspension Compressor1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Air Suspension Height Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Air Suspension Valve Block2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Ball Joint - Lower1.8h€ 81–€ 135
Ball Joint - Upper1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Ball Joints - Upper and Lower3.0h€ 135–€ 225
Transmission8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Kickdown Cable0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Neutral Safety Switch1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Overdrive Solenoid2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Shift Cable1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Shift Linkage1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Shift Solenoid - Single4.1h€ 184–€ 307
Shift Solenoids - All9.0h€ 405–€ 675
Torque Converter6.9h€ 310–€ 517
💵 WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY

Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.

🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
Engine oil
Engine oil
Motorcraft 5W-20 Synthetic Blend
With filter change
5.7 L
Coolant
Coolant
Motorcraft Orange Coolant
Use pre-mixed or mix 50/50 with distilled water
12.3 L
Brake fluid
Brake fluid
Motorcraft DOT 4 LV Brake Fluid
Replace when moisture content exceeds 3% or every 2-3 years
Transmission fluid
Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF
10.4 L
Power steering fluid
Motorcraft MERCON LV
0.9 L
Transfer case fluid
Motorcraft Transfer Case Fluid
2.4 L
Differential Front
75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil
1.4 L
Differential Rear
Motorcraft 75W-140 Synthetic Gear Oil
Limited-slip additive may be required
1.9 L
🔧 SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
Fuel Filter—
Timing Chain Inspection—
Engine Oil And Filter12,000 km / 6 months
Tire Rotation12,000 km / 6 months
Multi-Point Inspection12,000 km / 6 months
Cabin Air Filter32,000 km
Brake System Inspection32,000 km
Climate-Controlled Seat Filter32,000 km
📋 RECALLS & TSB (14)
NHTSA 13V227000
Fuel System, Gasoline
Date: 31/05/2013
Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Taurus, Flex, Fusion, Police Interceptor Sedan and Police Interceptor Utility vehicles; and certain model year 2013 Lincoln MKS, MKT, and MKZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may develop a crack, all…
NHTSA 16V247000
Air Bags › Frontal
Date: 26/04/2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Ford Flex, 2008 and 2010-2012 Ford Taurus, 2008-2009 Ford Taurus X, 2008 Mercury Sable, 2009 and 2011 Lincoln MKS vehicles. The driver frontal air bag may improperly inflate during second-stage deployment in the…
NHTSA 16V621000
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump
Date: 25/08/2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI Ecoboost engines and 2013-2015 Ford Taurus Police Interceptor vehicles. A component within the fuel pump electric module (PEM)…
NHTSA 25V732000
Structure › Body
Date: 24/10/2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Flex vehicles. The driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while driving.
NHTSA 15V464000
Parking Brake
Date: 24/07/2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 23, 2015, Lincoln MKT vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015, to May 21, 2015, and 2015-2016 Ford Explorer vehicles manufactured May 4, 2015…
NHTSA 16V925000
Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Turbo/Supercharger
Date: 22/12/2016
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2016 Ford Taurus, 2016-2017 Ford Flex, Lincoln MKT, 2017 Ford Explorer and Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI engines. Improperly brazed turbocharger oil supply tubes may leak oil on…
NHTSA 24V951000
Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera
Date: 20/12/2024
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2019 Flex, Fiesta, and Lincoln MKT vehicles. The rearview camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image.
NHTSA 18V548000
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/Regulator
Date: 20/08/2018
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018 Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX, 2019 Ford Flex, and Lincoln MKT vehicles. The power supply cables at the starter and the alternator may not have been properly secured, possibly resulting in an electrical arc.
NHTSA 25V695000
Back Over Prevention › Sensing System › Camera
Date: 13/10/2025
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Flex, 2015 Explorer, Lincoln MKT, Lincoln MKZ, 2015-2016 C-Max, Escape, Taurus, 2016 Fusion, 2018-2019 Taurus, 2019 Lincoln MKT, Fiesta, and 2020 Mustang vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, intermitten…
NHTSA 20V072000
Suspension › Rear
Date: 10/02/2020
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.
NHTSA 14V710000
Seats
Date: 07/11/2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2014 Ford F-150 and Flex vehicles manufactured March 1, 2014, to May 31, 2014. The affected vehicles were manufactured with a reduced clearance between the seat frame and the seat track assembly. This can cause the Occup…
NHTSA 15V812000
Fuel System, Gasoline
Date: 02/12/2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Explorer Police Utility, Taurus, Taurus Police Interceptor, Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may crack, allowing fuel to leak.
NHTSA 14V393000
Power Train › Axle Assembly › Axle Shaft
Date: 02/07/2014
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles manufactured September 2, 2010, to November 30, 2013; 2013-2014 Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured August 25, 2011, to November 30, 2013; and 2013-2014 Ford Flex …
NHTSA 15V340000
Steering › Electric Power Assist System
Date: 02/06/2015
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Ford Fusion vehicles without a 3.5L engine and Lincoln MKZ hybrid electric vehicles, 2011 Mercury Milan vehicles, 2011-2012 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with a 3.5L GTDI …
🔴 DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE

57 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.

Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
!BRAKE
Brake System WarningBrakes
K
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
Low Oil Pressure (Ford)Engine
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
+−
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
!BRAKE
ABS WarningBrakes
!BRAKE
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
!BRAKE
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
!
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
S
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
N
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
!
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
?
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
L
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
L
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
AC
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
A
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
AdvanceTrac Off (Ford)Chassis
SYNC System Fault (Ford)Electrical
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
L
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
A
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
A
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
A
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
A
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
!
Door Open WarningBody
!
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
MyKey Speed Limit (Ford)Electrical
📢 REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)

1827 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Ford Flex across model years 2009–2019. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.

64 crash reports 11 fires 56 injuries 1 death
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 2013578
Model year 2014247
Model year 2019202
Model year 2009180
Model year 2011144
Model year 2010139
Model year 201596
Model year 201682
Most reported components (all years)
Electrical System369
Steering368
Unknown Or Other226
Back Over Prevention170
Structure168
Engine167
Sample reports
BACKUP CAMERA FAILED Safety was put at risk because there was no functional camera while the vehicle was in reverse. Dealer confirmed backup camera failure. Dealer inspected the backup camera and determined it needed to be replaced. Ther… (MY 2014)
VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION 45+ MPH OR SO DRIVEN ON A DECLINE LONG WINDING ROAD. VEHICLE SHIFTED INTO FIRST GEAR FROM MUCH HIGHER GEAR CAUSING RAPID DECELERATION AND ALMOST REAR END COLLISION, PULLED IN REST AREA VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESPOND TO… (MY 2010)
The contact owns a 2012 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 MPH, the ABS and the ESC warnings illuminated. The contact stated that she had recently heard an abnormal grinding sound while turning the steer… (MY 2012)
There is serious safety trouble occurring with the power steering components, and the brake system. I went to the Ford dealership and they said the recalls weren’t fixed back in 2015. And those recalls are the same issues that are occurr… (MY 2012)

Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 2009–2019.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Ford Flex have any safety recalls?

Yes — 14 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL, STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM, FUEL SYSTEM. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.

What does fault code P0003 mean on the Ford Flex?

Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

What does fault code P0002 mean on the Ford Flex?

Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

What does fault code P0001 mean on the Ford Flex?

Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

Are engine problems common on the Ford Flex?

Yes — 271 of 1784 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “LAST NIGHT, I WENT TO BACK THE CAR OUT OF THE GARAGE AND WHILE IN REVERSE, THE ENGINE STARTED REVVING UP UNCONTROLLABLY AND EVEN THOUGH I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKES, IT KEPT MOVING IN REVERSE. I Q…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

Are steering problems common on the Ford Flex?

Yes — 430 of 1784 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the steering. One owner reported: “Was driving and the steering wheel became stiff. I received no warnings indications or lights on the dash. I had to give it a hard turn to get it to a parking lot and have it towed to a dealership.…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

Are electrical problems common on the Ford Flex?

Yes — 565 of 1784 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “You can be driving down the road, and all your gauges will stop working, and all the warning lights on the dash will light up. The first time this happened my wife got stuck at a gas station all the w…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

What tyres does the Ford Flex (2009–2019) use?

The original OEM tyre size for the Ford Flex (2009–2019) is 215/55 R16. Compatible alternative sizes: ["235/55R19", "235/60R17", "245/45R19", "235/60R18", "255/45R20"]. See the Tyres section on this page to compare offers from the main suppliers.

What is the right battery for the Ford Flex (2009–2019)?

The battery specified for the Ford Flex (2009–2019) is group 96R (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 800A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.

What engine oil should I use on the Ford Flex (2009–2019)?

The engine oil specification for the Ford Flex (2009–2019) is Motorcraft 5W-20 Synthetic Blend. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.

Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Ford Flex (2009–2019)?

Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.

How often should the Ford Flex (2009–2019) be serviced?

Routine maintenance for the Ford Flex (2009–2019) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.

Have a specific fault code on your Ford Flex (2009–2019)? Search the code in the OBD2 section of this page or use the full TroubleAtlas DTC database. Need tyres? Compare prices and compatible sizes in the TroubleAtlas comparator.

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