2016 FORD FLEX

3 recalls, 121 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

121 total complaints 4 crashes 2 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	18
POWER TRAIN	14
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	12
ENGINE	11
STEERING	8
SUSPENSION	7
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	5
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	4
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING	4
STRUCTURE:BODY	3

Incident date: Jul 2, 2026

As I was driving turning at a light to go right all of a sudden my steering wheel got super hard and It almost caused me to get into an accident. I didn't have the strength to grip the steering wheel. Shortly after the advanced traction control service light came on. Luckily there was an auto parts ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

Rear camera has been bad for six months - hazard to drive. Camera not available, is the prompt that comes up. My brother in law took his 2015 Ford F350 in for inspection and his camera was replace this was months ago.

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

Incident date: Jun 26, 2022

The contact owns a 2016 Ford Flex. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the rearview camera displayed a distorted image while reversing, and the failure w... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2025

I was driving in GA and my low engine power light came on and I lost complete ability to brake. The brake pedal was hard and would not go down. I towed my car to Jim Ellis Chevrolet in Atlanta. They called a few days later and told me I needed extensive engine repairs that would cost over $5,000 ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 3, 2026

No warning. It was cold out. I ran into a store. Came back to my car and started it. The rear window defrost automatically turned on. I sat for a few minutes to let my car warm up and the back window exploded. I heard the loud explosion like a gun shot. Look back and the window exploded all into the... Read more

Incident date: Jun 3, 2026

Idle Stop issue- We were at a stop light and the engine idle stopped. When the light turned green and the foot was taken off the brake, the engine did not turn back on. We had to turn hazards on and turn van completely off. We tried several times to restart the vehicle and the engine did not respond... Read more

Incident date: May 22, 2026

The contact owns a 2019 Ford Flex. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V951000(BACK OVER PREVENTION); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2025

The failed/malfunctioning components involve the rear backup camera system and related electronic driver assistance/safety systems in this 2016 Ford Flex, including the blind spot warning system and parking collision warning features. The condition is intermittent but ongoing and the vehicle is avai... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2025

Truck started shifting rough and lurching when sitting still or coming to a stop. Limp mode was engaging and limiting power to unsafe conditions at highway speeds. Check engine turned on, valve body failed

Incident date: Apr 1, 2025

Incident date: May 13, 2026

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the A-pillar trim on the driver’s side windshield started to detach. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (Structure); however, the part required for the recall re... Read more

Incident date: May 8, 2026

My electric vehicle is subject to an active battery recall (NHTSA ID: 24V-700) involving excessive lithium deposits within battery cells, which may increase electrical resistance, cause dangerous battery overheating, and create fire risk during Level 3 DC fast charging. Due to this defect, Nissan h... 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

The contact attempted to purchase a 2018 Ford F-150; however, there was an active recall associated with the VIN. The contact had not yet purchased the vehicle. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 25E070000 (Power Train). The contact stated that the part to do the recall repair was not yet... Read more

Incident date: Apr 6, 2026

My 2024 Subaru Outback has twice become inoperable while stopped at a traffic signal. In both incidents, the engine was off while stopped, but the vehicle remained powered on and would not restart. The vehicle also would not properly power down. The car could not be safely driven or moved and requi... Read more

Incident date: Mar 27, 2026

Odometer Fraud. The contact was in the process of purchasing a 2014 Chevrolet Traverse. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. Before the vehicle was purchased, the mileage was 118,000. At the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage w... 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

The automatic braking system will momentarily engage. This has happened during daytime in a high contrast environment - light painting on road surface or dark shadows on road surface. Vehicle will suddenly deaccellerate then resume normal operation. This randomly happens, even at same locations. Saf... 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: 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

ICCU Failure . Car stopped in the middle of the highway. I was able to move over thankfully to the side of the rode. Went into turtle mode and then it had to be Towed to my local Hyundai Dealership

Incident date: Jan 15, 2023

I have a 2017 F150 Lariat. When accelerating even in lower gear it may make a harsh noise when shifting sometimes making the truck jerk. Just wanted to report this because I saw a video talking about the problem.

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

All of the alarm lights are going on at once, immediately when the car is turned on. This includes the Collision Mitigation System Problem, Adaptive Cruise Control System, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Break System. I am told by my local garage that it is a Odyssey radar system failure, that p... 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

Car doesn't start if sitting more than 4 days untouched. When i went to the dealer, they informed me they know about the issue but nothing can be done about it. They even told me what the issue was, there's something in the car (they don't know what) that draws a lot of power non stop. kills the bat... Read more

Incident date: Oct 14, 2022

The steering sticks and the assisted steering goes on and off without warning making it dangerous driving. Almost caused a collision. Steering light comes on and off. It sounds like the recall of the steering issue found on other Honda accords for 2014 of other VINs.

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

Reverse camera goes black with movement in the picture. Can not see to back up for a week or two at a time then it works for a week. Asked Ford dealership about an update for software and they require $175 to diagnose the camera then pay to have he said possibly a new camera installed. It does not... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

Activates while driving on a flat road at random

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

Activates while driving on a flat road at random

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

My Que Screen has webbed and makes it impossible to view my screen, important vehicles warnings and my maps for directions. This has been a recall in the past. Prior to me owning my vehicle. I can’t believe Cadillac installed junk in their vehicles. A third party is a direct extension of YoUR busi... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2023

The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while turning to the left or the right, the steering wheel remained in the position the steering wheel was turned, instead of automatically returning to center. The contact used force to straighten the steering wheel. The contact sta... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2025

On September 7, 2025 at ~7:53 PM, my 2025 Tesla Model 3 operating with Full Self-Driving (FSD) engaged performed an aggressive, uncommanded turn while under computer control. The maneuver occurred so abruptly that I could not safely override steering before impact, and a crash resulted. The Tesla ap... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Jul 29, 2025

The contact owns a 2024 BMW X1. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V104000 (Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2010 Ford Escape. While the contact’s wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering assist and was driven with manual steering. The message "Power Steering Assist Fault" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who was unable t... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2025

UNKNOWN The display panel on the instrument cluster has went out. There was an open recall for newer models (2022-2024), but my vehicle's year (2020) was not included. After going through multiple forums, and speaking with many dealerships, this has been an on-going issue with multiple Jeep owners.

Incident date: Aug 22, 2025

The auxillary for the music has a short in it and Everytime a bump is hit it knocks it loose and it shuts off the whole thing. The screen and maps and music. The screen also freezes and my maps and route stopped working. I had to pull off the road to turn my car off to reset it. I have to do this mu... Read more

Incident date: Aug 22, 2025

Our sunroof exploded while we were driving on the highway. Glass shattered on us and fell while we were driving with a very loud explosive noise.

Incident date: Jul 9, 2025

The car failed to start, leaving it stranded and needing a tow. There is no reason for it as it has had no accidents or other issues to induce this. It is a known issue with these vehicles and nothing is being done about it.

Incident date: Jul 11, 2025

A few different days over the past few months. Driving heated seats stopped working. Check engine warning light on intermittently. Key fob not working. Multiple error codes stored in system cleared by dealer. shut down the car screen has stayed on. AC light has stayed on when car is off. Scree... Read more

Incident date: Jul 2, 2025

The contact owns a 2024 Honda ADV160. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V195000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); 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 r... Read more

Incident date: Sep 3, 2024

The contact owns a 2023 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds or while in stop-and-go traffic, while depressing the accelerator pedal, there was an abnormally loud plastic-on-plastic sound. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a brake b... Read more

Incident date: Jun 24, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while attempting to turn at approximately 5 MPH, the traction control warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road and restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while... Read more

Incident date: Jun 24, 2025

The contact owns a 2022 Toyota Sienna Hybrid. The contact stated while attempting to open or close the doors using sensor button, the rear door failed to perform as intended. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions. A dealer was not con... Read more

Showing 50 of 121 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, Open , Model Year: 2019

B-Pillar Trim Detachment

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received five complaints alleging the detachment of the B-pillar trim piece in model year 2019 Ford Flex vehicles manufactured by Ford Motor Company. The complaints allege that the trim piece can detach without warning while driving at highway speeds, ... 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

2,473 Total Complaints

2 Investigations

97 Reported Crashes

19 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	280	View
2018	3	81	View
2017	4	53	View
2016 (current)	3	121
2015	4	119	View
2014	4	323	View
2013	6	777	View
2012	2	89	View
2011	2	178	View
2010	1	181	View
2009	1	271	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