2016 FORD FLEX

3 recalls, 134 complaints - 132 TSBs

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Defect Description

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, intermittent, or blank image wh... Read more

Consequence

A rearview camera that fails to properly display an image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. This will be a phased campaign, with the remedy becoming available in different phases based on model and model years. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on October 25, 2025. Additional le... Read more

1,448,655 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

SUSPENSION:REAR

Defect Description

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.

Consequence

A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. Remedy parts are not currently available. Owners were notified about the recall on March 3, 2020. A second notice will be mailed when remedy parts become available, which is currently expected to be t... Read more

211,207 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER

Defect Description

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 engine components.

Consequence

An oil leak, in the presence of an ignition source, increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the turbocharger oil supply tubes, free of charge. The recall began on January 31, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S46.

1,163 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Complaint Statistics

134 total complaints 4 crashes 3 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
POWER TRAIN	21
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	17
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	9
STEERING	9
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	9
ENGINE	9
SUSPENSION	7
SERVICE BRAKES	5
SEAT BELTS	5
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	3

Incident date: Jul 1, 2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Flex. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention) and 25V829000 (Structure); however, parts to do the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2024

Incident date: Aug 15, 2024

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Flex. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to perform the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while in Reverse (R), the rearview camera displayed an inverted image. The de... Read more

Incident date: Apr 5, 2026

The car is experiencing turbo failure that lines up with the recall for the same model vehicle produced within the same 2016-2017 date. But for some reason this vin isnt included in the recall

Incident date: Apr 5, 2026

The car is experiencing turbo failure that lines up with the recall for the same model vehicle produced within the same 2016-2017 date. But for some reason this vin isnt included in the recall

Incident date: Aug 2, 2026

Radio making crackling noises, screen goes blank, cannot control a/c from touch screen and causes the a/c not to work on front vents. Vehicle inside died while the engine was still running in traffic and was unable to start/stop vehicle from running, a/c ran hot then vehicle stop running.

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

The vehicle is unsafe; it freezes while driving leaving one unable to navigate in any way. Everything ceases at once - nothing works, you can't put it into P/D/R/N, it won't accellerate or turn off. It just freezes, won't drive, won't turn off, completely locks up either while parked (the safer ver... Read more

Incident date: Jan 6, 2025

The Torgue converted failed and is throwing metal into the transmission.

Incident date: Jan 6, 2025

On 7/19/26, I was driving my 2022 Ford Bronco Wildtrak and attempting to turn left across oncoming traffic. When I pressed the accelerator to complete the turn, the vehicle hesitated and failed to accelerate as expected. An approaching vehicle had to decelerate abruptly and honk to avoid a collision... Read more

Incident date: Feb 20, 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Volkswagen ID.4. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V651000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the repair. The contact stated ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 23, 2025

Multiple vehicle systems have malfunctioned, including the transmission, infotainment/display screen, and backup camera. Most recently, the backup camera has stopped functioning, preventing a rear view while reversing. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request, along with any service reco... Read more

Incident date: Dec 15, 2025

ABS break lights and Service Advanced Trac lights flashing and beeping. Eventually Break fluid low lights came on and car would not break when driving . Leaked break fluid on driveway. Car was unable to be driven, no breaks .all happened very quickly and without any reason .i had it towed to a break... Read more

Incident date: Dec 15, 2025

Incident date: Jul 2, 2026

I took my suv in for diagnostics to a certified GM dealership at least twice while still under warranty. The check engine light was on, the car was behaving abnormally as well as making unusual concerning noises. The dealership sent me away saying no codes showed up and they couldn’t find a prob... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

UNKNOWN. I’ve had an issue with all of the lights on my dash coming on for a few days to a week & going off for a couple days then coming back on. I’ve seen numerous of people with the same issue, spend thousands of dollars after a diagnostic text at a Honda dealership and still experiencing the... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

I bought the car in May of 2021 with roughly 40,000 miles. It is now June of 2026 and I have roughly 111,000. Regularly maintenanced. My front sensor system went out last year, so I cannot use cruise control, auto brights, lane assist, emergency braking system, etc. It is a pretty penny to replace ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 26, 2022

The power liftgate on my 2024 Toyota Sienna consistently fails to complete a full close-and-latch cycle. When activated, the liftgate begins its closing sequence normally but then aborts the cycle during the final stages of latching. The system emits an audible beeping signal and the liftgate revers... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2025

I own a 2018 Jeep Wrangler that my 19 year old son drives for college. While driving, the vehicle jerked and became sluggish. There were no warning lights illuminated. I became aware that the front brake rotors had overheated again. I had the front right brake caliber and brake line changed back in ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 3, 2026

While child was seated in the rear right second-row seat of a 2022 Honda Odyssey Touring, the seat belt became stuck and jammed, trapping the child in the car seat. Multiple attempts were made to release the child but the seat belt mechanism would not release. The child became distressed and complai... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Jun 3, 2026

1 injured

Incident date: May 22, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle the transmission experienced erroneously down shifting and upshifting, gear skipping, aggressive down shifting, and erroneous shifting from the park to drive positions. The vehicle was taken to the local mechani... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 FORD F-350. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, he had a loss of motive power and check engine warning light was illuminated when driving, almost causing an accident due to not being able to accelerate. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diag... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2013 Honda Accord. The stated that the vehicle was taken for the recall repair for NHTSA Campaign Number 25V422000 (Power Train). The contact stated that after the recall repair was completed, the vehicle was not apart of the recall. The dealer advised the the when alignment was... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2025

We were crossing under the light to go to the gas station and we believe the car that hit us ran a red light. It caused right rear damage and side airbags to deploy. There's a metal piece in the tire and its undriveable.

Crash

Incident date: May 13, 2026

I was trying to turn and the wheel kept kicking back the other direction. About a week prior to this as I was driving down the road all of a sudden the wheel threw me across a median and into incoming traffic almost causing multiple accidents. I have a video of it but it won’t allow me to upload i... Read more

Incident date: May 8, 2026

This is a continuation/escalation of NHTSA complaint 11689917. My 2021 Ford F-150 has experienced repeated fuel-system/electrical fuel-pump failures. The vehicle previously stalled and later cranked but would not start, returning code P0627 “Fuel Pump A Control Circuit / Open.” The in-tank fuel ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 28, 2026

While driving on a surface road in Columbia, MD at approximately 40 mph, the dash display of the 2024 Ford Lightning Flash went completely blank, leaving no indication of vehicle speed, battery percentage, battery temp, motor temp, cruise control status etc. Zero information was displayed, and the d... Read more

Incident date: Dec 22, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Porsche Cayenne. The contact stated that the front driver’s side seat belt failed to buckle and became unusable. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The contact was advised to schedule an appointment for the vehicle to be repaired at the owner's ex... Read more

Incident date: Dec 22, 2025

I have a 2016 jeep wrangler and I was trying to get it fixed but the dealership said it was the abs module and that they could not get one in because they are on back order because they warehouse that provides the chips for them burned down. I was then told that it is not promised to when they will ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 6, 2026

The contact owns a 2001 Ford Ranger. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop. The contact stated that there was smoke coming from underneath the hood. The brakes and check engine warning lights were illuminated... Read more

Incident date: Mar 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, and driving at an undisclosed speed, the seat belt alarm chimed while the seat belts were properly buckled. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle, and released and fastened the seat belt securel... Read more

Incident date: Mar 25, 2026

I am submitting this complaint regarding a serious and ongoing safety issue with my 2017 Honda CR‑V equipped with the 1.5L turbocharged engine. While driving, the vehicle experienced sudden and unexpected power loss, creating a dangerous situation, particularly while in traffic. During this incid... Read more

Incident date: Mar 19, 2026

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2008 Honda CR-V. The contact discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of the purchase, the mileage was 137,000. It was later discovered upon registering the vehicle with the DMV that the mi... Read more

Incident date: Mar 19, 2026

On February 23, 2026, I was driving my 2023 Tesla Model Y under normal city conditions. While parallel parking at very low speed, I suddenly heard a loud metallic bang from the driver’s side of the vehicle. Immediately afterward, the vehicle lost mobility and the steering wheel became unresponsive... Read more

Incident date: Feb 27, 2026

February 3, 2026 my 2022 Silverado ZR2 with 37,000 miles shut off on me while driving at a speed of 45 mph, i was able to pull over safely, I mentioned this to the dealership and they were unable to figure out why. 2 weeks later, my truck began to start making a loud knocking noise from the engine, ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 3, 2025

Tailgate was dropping open while driving, and sometimes would not latch when shut without slamming it several times. Took it to Gupton Dodge Dealership 37172 and they performed the recall. A few months later the same problems started occurring again, then after a while longer the tailgate actually... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 2023

I was driving along and noticed my windshield was cracked on the passenger side. The crack is vertical from the bottom of the windshield to about halfway up. It was fine the day before. No rocks, etc struck my windshield. I understand that Subaru has had issues with windshields cracking for no reaso... Read more

Incident date: Jan 7, 2023

Chronic water leak from roofline obstructing vision and causing confusion while underway

Incident date: Mar 14, 2025

The contact owns a 2025 Toyota Camry. The contact stated that while pulling into the garage, the brake pedal was applied but failed to respond. The vehicle jerked forward with unattended acceleration and crashed into the wall. The wall of the garage was damaged due to the impact. There were no war... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Dec 31, 1969

The seat stopped working. The ford almost gave out on me multiple times today. On the highway and twice on the road. Apparently this vehicle has been recalled plenty of times. It has something to do with bush wiring. The seat will not adjust or move forward and the windshield wipers don’t work. I... Read more

Incident date: Oct 6, 2025

See attached document for complaint.

Incident date: Oct 6, 2025

See attached document for complaint.

Incident date: Oct 6, 2025

while driving between 5-10 MPH on a dry, smooth paved road, the transmission began cycling through 4WD modes and began shifting from normal mode to 4WD Sand mode, i was able to pull over and park, but the transmission continued shifting and fully transitioned to 4WD mode. This is the second time it ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 14, 2022

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle intermittently lost automotive power. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, and the starter was replaced. Upon further investigat... Read more

Incident date: Aug 13, 2025

Loss power to drive the vehicle while in motion Unable to steer vehicle during motion Vehicle slammed into park automatically Unable to restart vehicle for several minutes Vehicle warning to service hybrid system

Incident date: May 1, 2023

The contact owns a 2022 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while the vehicle was stopped, the contact attempted to use the GPS system via he infotainment screen; however, while depressing the source button, the screen failed to respond as intended. The contact was only able to turn the screen on a... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2023

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The deal... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

Activates while driving on a flat road at random

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

Was driving approximately 35mph and the steering got extremely difficult. Was able to get car safely off street. Turned car off, restarted car and steering was back to normal. Haven’t had problem since this one time. Called local dealer about electric steering and was told it was not in previous r... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

Activates while driving on a flat road at random

Showing 50 of 134 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2016 FORD FLEX

2016 Ford Flex SUV FWD

Category	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	16.4%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	Optional
Lane Departure Warning	No

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2016 FORD FLEX

132 manufacturer communications from 76 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	28
350000 EQUIPMENT	16
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL	9
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	7
100000 POWER TRAIN	6
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER	6
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	5
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	4

350000 EQUIPMENT

All accessory stick-on keyless entry keypads come with a wallet card containing the master code. If the accessory keypad was factory installed, this card will be placed in the glove box and should be handed to the vehicles owner during ini

100000 POWER TRAIN

During service and repair requiring removal and replacement of a crankshaft bolt and/or crankshaft damper, achieving proper torque of the crankshaft pulley bolt is critical. Incorrect torque may allow the bolt to loosen resulting in the tim

160000 STRUCTURE

For 2000-2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, swapping a module from a vehicle for diagnosis purposes is likely to cause errors and is not recommended. It is also not recommended to order a replacement module using a vehicle identification numbe

100000 POWER TRAIN

Some 2015-2016 vehicles equipped with 6F50/6F55 transmission and built on 2-Nov-2015 and through 1-Feb-2016 may exhibit no reverse, 3rd and 5th gear with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0715,P0717,P0756 and/or P2701. This may be caused by

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

Some 2016-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit a condition where the navigation voice prompts are inoperative after a SYNC map update. This may be due to an incomplete installation of the SYNC map software. If pos

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2015-2021 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing th

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2016-2021 Ford or Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 or SYNC 4 may exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in transport mode. This is considered normal due to the power saving features enabled

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F-150/Focus/C-MAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty, and 2018-20

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

Some 2016-2019 Flex vehicles equipped with a factory keyless entry keypad may exhibit a loose driver side B-pillar front door upper moulding. This may be caused by a lack of adhesion of the front door upper moulding to the door. To correct

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Some 2009-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with turbochargers may exhibit an oil leak from the turbocharger oil supply or return tubes, O-rings or 6.7L pedestal gasket. Although oil may collect on the turbocharger, it is very rare fo

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Some 2016 MKS, 2016-2017 Navigator, 2016-2018 F150/Focus/CMAX/Edge/Fiesta/MKX/ Transit Connect/Mustang, 2017-2018 Continental/Fusion/MKZ, 2017-2019 Explorer, 2016-2019 Escape/MKC/Flex/MKT/Taurus/Transit/Expedition/F-Super Duty, and 2018-201

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2016-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a SYNC 3 Touchscreen may experience the volume control unresponsive from the Front Control Interface Module (FCIM) and steering volume controls when using Apple Car Play. When the Apple

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SSM 48619 - Various Vehicles - Perimeter Alarm Armed And Original Vehicle Keys Cannot Be Accessed to Enter Vehicle - CAN Protection Strategy Some 2013-2016 Model Year Vehicles may exhibit a concern in which the Perimeter Alarm is active

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

100000 POWER TRAIN

Some 2015-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing t

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2016-2019 vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience a map displayed on the left half of the SYNC screen with no other information/soft buttons present after updating to the latest version of V3.0 software. This issue occurs when the

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Some 2013-2020 vehicles equipped with an EVDC air conditioning (A/C) compressor may exhibit poor A/C performance/improper climate function. To support the proper diagnosis of this compressor, the EVDC control valve tester has been provided

130000 VISIBILITY

Some 2010-2020 vehicles may exhibit distorted glass with a subtle orange peel pattern or streaking etched into the surface. This is caused by hydrofluoric acid which is used in some car wash solutions as a cleaning agent. Hydrofluoric acid

132000 VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

For Ford and Lincoln vehicles that require positive or negative battery terminal replacement, it is not necessary to replace the complete battery cable harness (14300 and 14301) for this concern. Positive battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-AA a

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2009-2017 Expedition/Navigator, 2009-2014 F-150/Mustang, 2008-2009 Sable, 2008-2019 Taurus/Flex/MKT, 2013-2019 Police Interceptor Sedan/Utility, and 2011-2019 Explorer vehicles may exhibit inoperative or intermittent HVAC blower motor

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2016-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 not at the latest software level may exhibit Various Performance Related concerns such as Display Operation, Navigation, Voice Recognition, Phone Pairing, Applink, Travel Link, S

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Some 2015-2017 F-150/Mustang, 2015-2018 Edge/MKC, 2016-2018 MKX, 2013-2018 Explorer/Taurus/Flex/MKT, and 2017-2018 Fusion/MKZ/Continental vehicles built on or before 19-Oct-2017 may exhibit an inoperative adaptive cruise control, collision

260000 FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

100000 POWER TRAIN

2015-2016 Edge/MKX/Flex/MKT/MKZ/MKS/Taurus/Taurus Police/Explorer/Explorer Police vehicles built on or before 10-Jun-2016 and equipped with a 3.5L or 3.7L engine, all wheel drive (AWD) and a power transfer unit (PTU) may exhibit a PTU venti

100000 POWER TRAIN

On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission it is imperative that the converter pilot hub be greased with Motorcraft Multi-Purpose Grease Spray XL-5-A even if grease was not applied from the factory. Also verify that the engine/tran

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Some 2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a EVDC air conditioning (A/C) compressor may exhibit poor A/C performance/improper climate function and/or a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P06A0 in the powertrain control module (PCM). To support the pr

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

SSM 47948 - 2010-2019 Various Vehicles - Turbocharged Engines - Oil Supply Filter Replacement When Replacing The Turbocharger Or The Turbocharger Oil Supply Tube For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing an

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

350000 EQUIPMENT

Some 2012-2019 Vehicles may require repairs to the Smartlink system. Smartlink is a Ford Licensed Accessory which has a warranty provided by the accessory manufacturer. Warranty replacement parts for Smartlink that are ordered through Ford

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2016-2019 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 and a 6, 8 or 10 inch screen may show a pop-up message every key cycle that states 'SYNC can check for updates when connected to a WiFi network'. To remove the inconvenience of t

061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER

For 2010-2019 vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines, when diagnosing and/or replacing turbo related concerns, all steps within the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure must be followed including replacement of all mandatory discarded parts

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit the Android Auto Preference menu selection is not present after an update to version 3.0 software. In prior versions of SYNC 3 software this menu was present, however

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 not at the latest software level may exhibit Various Performance Related concerns such as Display Operation, Navigation, Voice Recognition, Phone Pairing, Applink, Travel Link, S

010000 STEERING

Some 2015-2018 Flex, Taurus, Police Interceptor Sedan, and 2016 Navigator vehicles may exhibit a turn signal that does not operate as expected when the steering column multifunction switch is moved to the lane change position, then quickly

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Various 2016-2018 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the ve

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Some 2007-2016 Edge/MKX/Flex/MKT/MKZ/MKS/Taurus/Police Interceptor Sedan/Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility vehicles equipped with AWD and built on or before 30-Jun-2016 may exhibit a propane or natural gas odor during idle or low speed dr

350000 EQUIPMENT

Replacing the original equipment SYNC/Navigation system with either an aftermarket SYNC/Navigation kit or modifying original SYNC/Navigation parts to provide additional features is not recommended nor supported on any Ford, Mercury or Linco

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 and connected to an iPhone recently upgraded to iOS 11.2.5 may exhibit functional concerns where USB audio playback and App Link will not operate. This may also include, under ce

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Various 2016-2017 vehicles with SYNC 3 may experience a touch screen that does not respond to any input. Using the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website > OASIS tab > SYNC version, verify the vehicle SYNC software version. If the ve

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln Vehicle equipped with SYNC 3 and connected to an iPhone recently upgraded to iOS 11.2.5 may exhibit a concern where USB Audio playback and App Link applications will not function properly. This may also inclu

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

2010-2018 various vehicles equipped with SYNC or SYNC 3 may not function when attempting to find or use the Spotify app via AppLink. As of an update released on 1/15/2018 Spotify will no longer be supporting their AppLink integration. No re

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

The Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can only be used with vehicles that are factory built with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE). The master code for the Accessory (Wireless) Keyless Entry Keypad can be retrieved from FMCDealer - Parts a

350000 EQUIPMENT

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may intermittently display an overhead image of a vehicle in the center of the SYNC touchscreen with no obstacle detection grids or warning chimes. SYNC may appear unresponsive when the o

350000 EQUIPMENT

270000 LANE DEPARTURE

280000 BACK OVER PREVENTION

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Some 2016-2018 Ford or Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in transport mode. This is due to the power saving features enabled while in transport mode and

103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

Some vehicles may exhibit a no start condition with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and a DTC P161A after PCM replacement. This may be due to the parameter reset procedure not being properly completed. To clear this DTC, use

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Some 2013-2017 Edge/MKX/Escape/MKC/Fusion/MKZ/Flex/MKT/Mondeo/Kuga/EcoSport AWD vehicles where diagnosis leads to a RDU clutch issue, a rear drive unit (RDU) service kit is available. Use the vehicle identification number (VIN) in the parts

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Some 2016-2017 Edge, Escape, Expedition, Fiesta, Flex, MKC, MKT, MKX, Mustang, Navigator and Taurus or 2017 Explorer and Super Duty vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 and built on 1-Jul-2015 and through 31-Dec-2016 may exhibit a SYNC display mes

284000 BACK OVER PREVENTION: CAMERA SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2013-2017 Edge/MKX/Flex/MKT/MKZ/MKS/Taurus/Taurus Police/Explorer/Explorer Police/Continental vehicles equipped with a 3.5L or 3.7L engine, all wheel drive (AWD) and a power transfer unit (PTU) that is being repaired or replaced for an inte

350000 EQUIPMENT

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

SOME 2016-2017 FORD OR LINCOLN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SYNC 3 MAY EXHIBIT A BLANK SCREEN OR OTHER VARIOUS SYNC SYMPTOMS ONLY WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN TRANSPORT MODE. THIS IS CONSIDERED NORMAL DUE TO THE POWER SAVING FEATURES ENABLED WHILE IN T

105000 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE

SOME 2007-2016 EDGE/MKX/FLEX/MKT/MKZ/MKS/TAURUS/TAURUS POLICE/EXPLORER/EXPLORER POLICE EQUIPPED WITH ALL WHEEL DRIVE (AWD) AND BUILT ON OR BEFORE 30-JUN-2016 MAY EXHIBIT A TICKING AND/OR KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE DRIVELINE AREA. TO IDE

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

350000 EQUIPMENT

REPLACING THE ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT SYNC/NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH EITHER AN AFTERMARKET SYNC/NAVIGATION KIT OR MODIFYING ORIGINAL SYNC/NAVIGATION PARTS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL FEATURES IS NOT RECOMMENDED NOR SUPPORTED ON ANY FORD, MERCURY OR LINCO

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

TO HELP DIFFERENTIATE ENGINE OIL LEAKS FROM OTHER POSSIBLE SOURCES, A NEW WHITE-COLORED FLUORESCENT ENGINE OIL DYE IS AVAILABLE. WORKSHOP MANUAL (WSM), SECTION 303-00 HAS BEEN REVISED TO REFERENCE THE NEW WHITE-COLORED DYE. THE NEW WHITE FL

350000 EQUIPMENT

SOME OWNERS OF 2016 FORD AND LINCOLN MKX VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SYNC 3 MAY INQUIRE ABOUT UPGRADING TO APPLE CARPLAY AND ANDROID AUTO. THIS UPGRADE IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILABLE FOR THOSE VEHICLES. APPLE CARPLAY AND ANDROID AUTO ARE CURRENTLY A

010000 STEERING

SOME 2010-2016 EPAS EQUIPPED VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT STEERING RELATED NOISES. THE WORKSHOP MANUAL (WSM) DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES HAVE BEEN UPDATED IN SECTION 211-02. WHEN DIAGNOSING AND REPAIRING EPAS STEERING NOISES USE THE UPDATED PROCEDURES.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

SOME 2016 EXPLORER, FLEX, MKT, TAURUS, MKS AND TRANSIT VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 3.5L GTDI ENGINE MAY EXHIBIT AN ILLUMINATED MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P2096, P2097, P2098 AND/OR P2099 IN THE POWERTRA

350000 EQUIPMENT

CERTAIN 2015 MODEL YEAR EDGE, 2015-2016 MODEL YEAR F-150, MKT, AND POLICE INTERCEPTOR SEDAN, AND 2016 MODEL YEAR ESCAPE, EXPLORER, FLEX, FUSION, MKX, MUSTANG, POLICE INTERCEPTOR UTILITY, TAURUS, AND TRANSIT VEHICLES - ELECTRONIC THROTTLE BO

199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

SETTING THE CORRECT TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE IS AN IMPORTANT STEP IN THE PRE-DELIVERY PROCESS AND DURING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE INTERVALS. RECENT CUSTOMER CLINICS REVEALED THAT MOST EVERY VEHICLE IN THE CLINICS HAD THE TIRE PRESSURES SET INCORR

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

SOME 2008-2017 FORD/MERCURY/LINCOLN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SYNC MAY GENERATE A VHR THAT IDENTIFIES A CONCERN WITH THE BRAKES AND SUSPENSION CATEGORY INDICATING SERVICE IS REQUIRED DUE TO A BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LAMP BEING ILLUMINATED. IF THE

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

SOME 2013-2016 FUSION/ESCAPE/MKT/FLEX/MKS/TAURUS, 2015-2016 MKZ/MKC/EDGE AND 2016 MKX VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT VARIOUS RADIO CONCERNS INCLUDING: SPEAKER STATIC WITH KEY-OFF, NO AUDIO AFTER VEHICLE IS FIRST STARTED WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

SOME 2015-2016 F-150, C-MAX, EDGE, MKS, TAURUS, AND FLEX AND 2016 EXPEDITION, EXPLORER, ESCAPE, FUSION, MUSTANG, MKZ, MKX, NAVIGATOR, TRANSIT AND TRANSIT CONNECT VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.0L, 2.5L, 3.5L OR 3.7L GASOLINE ENGINE AND BUILT ON

150000 SEAT BELTS

Some vehicles may have a concern where the safety belt retractor webbing does not extract from the stowed position or exhibits excessive pressure on the occupant during use. This may be due to a normal condition which happens when the seatb

151300 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic throttle bodies (ETBs). The ETC_ACT and ETC_DSD PIDs should not used to diagnose possible ETB concerns. The IDS has a limited refresh rate

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

061110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS

061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER

Showing 100 of 132 bulletins.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD FLEX

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2017

B-Pillar Trim Detachment

On August 7, 2025, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE25007 to investigate instances of B-pillar trim detachment in model year (MY) 2019 Ford Flex vehicles manufactured by Ford Motor Company. During the investigation, MY 2011-2018 Ford Flex vehicles were analyzed as peer vehicles, an... d subsequently incorporated into the subject population because they use B-pillar trim pieces that are substantially similar to those used on the MY 2019 Ford Flex vehicles. In July 2025, prior to the opening of PE25007, ODI and Ford met to discuss B-pillar trim detachment in Ford Flex vehicles. Ford reported that its warranty analysis indicated that Flex B-pillar trim had a low detachment rate and that Ford did not believe this condition posed an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety. In July 2025, Ford closed its internal investigation. Because ODI’s analysis of complaint data indicated a high failure rate and an increasing failure trend, PE25007 was subsequently opened. In responding to the information request for PE25007, Ford reassessed the warranty search criteria used in its July 2025 internal investigation. The reassessment found the detachment rate to be substantially higher than what Ford had originally determined. Consequently, in October 2025, Ford issued recall 25V732based on the reassessed and accurate high failure rate. This recall instructed dealers to inspect the driver and front passenger B-pillar trim pieces and repair/replace if necessary. The vehicles included in this recall were MY 2017-2019 Ford Flex with production dates between February 17, 2017 and December 2, 2019. In January 2026, Ford issued 25V732 Amendment 1, which updated the remedy to remove the inspection criteria and instead proactively secure the driver and front passenger B-pillar trim with adhesive. The scope of vehicles included in the recall was unchanged by Amendment 1. ODI’s analysis of 25V732 found that both the scope and remedy were insufficient and that an unreasonable safety risk remained despite the recall. MY 2016 Ford Flex was excluded from the recall scope and the rear B-pillar trims on both the driver and passenger side were excluded from the recall. The failure rates of both MY 2016 Ford Flex and rear B-pillar trim pieces were found to be higher than the failure rates in similar trim detachment recalls issued by both Ford and other vehicle manufacturers. Starting in January 2026, ODI and Ford had multiple meetings to discuss Ford’s PE25007 response data and ODI’s concern about the 25V732 scope and remedy. In June 2026, Ford issued 25V732 Amendment 2. This amendment expanded the scope of the recall to add MY 2016-2017 Ford Flex vehicles produced before February 17, 2017. Additionally, this amendment updated the remedy to include removal of and reapplication or replacement of both rear driver and rear passenger B-pillar trim pieces in addition to front driver and front passenger B-pillar trim pieces. This updated remedy applies to all MY 2016-2019 vehicles. Ford expects to complete the mailing of remedy owner notification letters by March 26, 2027. Also, Ford informed ODI that prior model year (MY 2011-2015) vehicles were referred to Ford’s Customer Satisfaction forum for consideration of an extended warranty program. In view of recall 25V732 and its associated amendments, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation (PE). The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2019

Rear-view Camera Failure

On October 11, 2024, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE24030) to assess alleged failures of the rear-view camera in Model Year (MY) 2019 Ford Flex vehicles. Complaints submitted to NHTSA through Vehicle Online Questionnaires (VOQs), reviewed by ODI, report ... blank, distorted, or inverted rear-view camera images when in reverse. An inverted or upside-down image can provide false information to the driver increasing the risk of a crash. To date, ODI has received 85 VOQ complaints and additional EWR Field Reports with these allegations for MY 2019 Ford Flex vehicles. During the investigation, ODI found that the MY 2019 Ford Flex vehicle and certain peer vehicles including MY 2015-2018 Flex, MY 2019 Fiesta, Taurus, and Lincoln MKT vehicles are equipped with Magna analog rear-view-only cameras. On December 20, 2024, Ford filed Recall 24V-951 covering 30,715 MY 2019 Ford Flex, Ford Fiesta, and Lincoln MKT vehicles in which the rear-view camera may intermittently display a blank or distorted image. The dealers will replace the rear-view camera for vehicles in the recall population. Per the recall chronology, teardown of three cameras identified fractured solder joints between the microcontroller and the printed circuit board. Ford indicated that other causal factors are being investigated and asserted that the defect is contained within the camera. ODI found that certain peer vehicles excluded from Recall 24V-951 showed a high rate of VOQ complaints. Also, ODI identified reports produced by Ford that indicate the peer vehicles have the same issue as the subject vehicles. To address ODI’s concern, Ford analyzed some field-returned cameras, as well as Ford’s field data and ODI’s VOQ data. Ford stated it did not identify a specific root cause in the Magna supplied cameras. However, on October 13, 2025, Ford filed Recall 25V-695 covering 1,448,655 vehicles of various Ford/Lincoln models equipped with Magna supplied cameras. The cameras demonstrate the same blank or distorted images that prompted Recall 24V-951. It should be noted that Ford is conducting a recall of those vehicles by model/model year that exhibit VOQ complaint rates greater than 10 per 100,000 vehicles. For the remaining vehicles (rates less than 10/100K), Ford is providing a warranty extension (15 years/unlimited miles). Ford has stated that the differences in the rates (field performance) are likely due to the differences in the camera related hardware, such as the wiring harness type that are specific by vehicle model/model year. In view of Ford filing Recall 24V-951 and Recall 25V-695 addressing the subject of this investigation, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. NHTSA reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.Read more

FORD FLEX - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the FORD FLEX across all model years (2009, 2019).

34 Total Recalls

2,533 Total Complaints

2 Investigations

99 Reported Crashes

22 Reported Fires

0 Reported Deaths

FORD FLEX - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2019	4	311	View
2018	3	86	View
2017	4	56	View
2016 (current)	3	134
2015	4	124	View
2014	4	325	View
2013	6	777	View
2012	2	89	View
2011	2	178	View
2010	1	181	View
2009	1	272	View

Other FORD Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
MUSTANG	1,104	11,600	View
RANGER	928	10,371	View
F-350 SD	776	2,363	View
F-450 SD	692	624	View
F-150	692	46,142	View
F-250 SD	638	3,635	View
EXPLORER	624	42,549	View
F-550 SD	578	603	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2016 FORD FLEX

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2016 FORD FLEX

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2016 FORD FLEX

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD FLEX

FORD FLEX - All Years Overview

FORD FLEX - Year by Year

Other FORD Models