2017 FORD FLEX

4 recalls, 53 complaints - 123 TSBs

STRUCTURE:BODY

Defect Description

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Flex vehicles. The driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim may detach while driving.

Consequence

Door trim that detaches while driving can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will repair or replace the B-pillar trim as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed December 17, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated March 2027. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-... Read more

92,347 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

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

53 total complaints 4 crashes 5 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
SUSPENSION	12
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	5
STEERING	5
AIR BAGS	4
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	4
POWER TRAIN	3
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	3
ENGINE	3
VISIBILITY/WIPER	2
STRUCTURE	2

Incident date: May 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 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 local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated tha... Read more

Incident date: Feb 18, 2026

The internal water pump failed, dumping a half gallon of antifreeze into the engine oil. This caused the engine to suddenly stall and lose all power while driving in the middle of active traffic, creating a severe crash hazard .

Incident date: Mar 10, 2026

My vehicle makes a clunk noise when the vehicle is in motion and i press on the accelerator it also makes a little jerk. This mainly happens @ low speeds and on a incline hill. There some type of oil or grease stains where the cv axle goes into transmission. ive felt my vehicle with less power and p... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2025

Component: Electric power steering system (steering column rack). Vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Safety risk: Loss of power steering assist renders the steering wheel virtually inoperable, creating an immediate risk of loss of vehicle control for the driver and danger to other ro... Read more

Incident date: Oct 13, 2025

I made a left turn out of my work parking lot and felt a clunk. Shortly afterward, the car started shaking violently at about 10 mph. I relocated it to the Nissan dealer near my workplace and they discovered the rear lower link/control arm was fractured from rust deterioration. I was advised that th... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

The contact owned a 2009 Toyota Camry. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at approximately 40 MPH, another vehicle ran a stop sign and collided with the drivers front side of the vehicle and the air bags did not deploy as intended. The contact's daughter sustained chest, knee, an... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

The car has been jerking and shuddering and losing power when I accelerate. Was told it needs a new transmission.

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

Hello, I recently submitted a safety complaint regarding my 2017 Ford Flex. The complaint number is XXX. I would like to add additional information that I forgot to include in the original report. The vehicle’s power liftgate has intermittently opened on its own while the vehicle was parked. Th... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 2025

2019 Ford F-250 original fuel pump or related part connected cause hard and prolonged starting in vehicle. Prolonged starts can damage other parts if left unfixed. This is a Ford manufacturing issue and could cause a person possible harm from an unknown development from the pump and related affecte... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 GMC Acadia. The contact stated that while shifting into park(P), the gear shift indicator failed to display that the vehicle was in park(P) on the instrument panel, even though the vehicle was in park(P). The gear shifter was shifted continuously until the gear shift indicato... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 2025

My 2017 Ford Flex has an open safety recall for the rearview camera system (Ford Recall 25S49 / NHTSA Recall 25V695). The recall states the camera may display a blank image or show the message “Camera Unavailable” when the vehicle is placed in reverse. My vehicle is actively experiencing this e... Read more

Incident date: Sep 9, 2025

The 12.3 in multi media display keeps going blank while driving I have taking it back a couple of times and still does it on the way back from a trip this year the screen went blank while I was using the map in a city and about got into a accident

Incident date: Sep 10, 2025

Rear camera for in cabin rear view is improperly sealed for cold weather and constantly fogs which renders the camera worthless. I was also sent brand new side lights from gm that were improperly sealed and built condensation them after a month or two.

Incident date: Jul 7, 2025

The vehicle losses propulsion. The EV battery drains rapidly. Electronics and hazards will not turn off at times. The head unit screen and user interface is unstable and in consist. Instrument cluster provides has had previous failures.

Incident date: May 19, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Ram 2500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the message "Service ABS and Traction Control" was displayed on the instrument panel... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2024

245 /50 R20 : size My dealership told me I needed to change all my tires and provided pics showing pieces of my tires (3 tires) missing. This was present in all 3 of the original tires- same dot and sizes. The 4th tire has already been replaced. My Honda pilot mileage is 29000 miles, purchased new i... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2025

I have replaced my struts and shocks three times and I am still having trouble with my stability trac

Incident date: Mar 1, 2025

The Emission Device 'Active Grill Shutters' have failed for a 2nd time, with a MIL on my perfectly maintained, once at 38K, then again on 9/10/25 @45K mile truck. A Google search leads to likely 100's of other Ram 1500 Owners reporting the same issue and resultant MIL. The prominent cause of the iss... Read more

Incident date: Aug 4, 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the driveway, water accumulated on the front seats floor mats and on the second-row floor mats. Upon inspection, the contact found potential white mold under the seats. The vehicle was taken to the dea... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2023

The contact owns a 2023 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V302000 (AIR BAGS). The contact stated that the dealer was contacted; however, the contact was informed that parts were unavailable for the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufa... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2023

Electric start is cranking but engine takes up to 10 seconds or longer to turn over. This happens from cold start and even the stop start when in drive at a stop sign or stop light. It is either an issue with fuel injection/fuel pump or something else as it is not a battery issue just replaced them ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2023

Incident date: Aug 1, 2025

I have had this problem now for over a year, the backup camera on my 2016 Lincoln MKZ shows a panoramic view of the rear but things are reversed, left is on the right side and visa versa or the screen goes blank and a message states camera unavailable contact dealership. Sometimes it works okay but ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 17, 2025

I was behind another vehicle with the adaptive cruise control on and been following the for some distance at a speed below the cruise control setting. Warning came on for the braking mitigation, cruise control disengaged, vehicle began coasting but did not brake. I continued home driving without a... Read more

Incident date: May 29, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 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 while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's side windshield exterior A-Pillar tri... Read more

Incident date: Jun 11, 2025

While car was on a warning popped up saying "Service Transmission" and then another warning popped up saying "Propulsion Power is Reduced". This then limited the speed of the car and the acceleration significantly making it extremely unsafe to drive. Thankfully I was not on the interstate, but I cer... Read more

Incident date: May 29, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V274000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasona... Read more

Incident date: May 29, 2025

Approximately three weeks ago my steering wheel started sticking when making turns. Normally it happens when I am traveling at least 30 mph/40 mph. It does not automatically return to the normal position. Sometimes I actually feel it lock and unlock while even driving straight.

Incident date: Aug 14, 2024

On more than several occasions the car has slammed on the breaks for no apparent reason. This has happened multiple times and thr dealer can’t fix the issue because the computer is showing no error. This is a serious concern for me as the last time it occurred a child hit her face on the back of... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Feb 26, 2024

Unknown-APPARENTLY THIS IS AN ON GOING WRANGLER ISSUE BUT WAS NEVER recalled AND I SEE NO COMMENTS. I see all over the forums that this is a problem and it is driving me insane coming from the left front wheel well area not only during breaking, but both breaking and slowing down no foot on gas or ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 13, 2023

First problem, My air bag cover is cracked and the air bag comes out, I Took my vehicle to the dealership before the 36000 miles, when still has bumper to bumper warranty, they replaced the air bag cover for free, after several months my air bag cover broke again, I contacted the dealership, their a... Read more

Incident date: Apr 4, 2023

Paint on hood of car is peeling off, down to bare metal

Incident date: Feb 22, 2023

I purchased a 2016 Kia Optima LX in 2021, and have been having issues with excessive oil consumption and cylinder misfires. I get regular oil changes and have to top it off every week after, if I forget to check, it will be completely dry. This is hazardous and unsafe to drive not knowing when it wi... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 2023

Yes it’s available for inspection. Sudden increase in speed under certain condition could be a safety issue. This problem has been identified by another owner and taken to Nissan (Apple) York, PA. The problem happened after leaving the Nissan lot on the way home, less than 200 miles. During use of... Read more

Incident date: Jul 28, 2022

The Driver side seatbelt begins to lock as you pull it down to click it into the buckle. While driving the seatbelt will also lock and continue to get tighter and tighter and suddenly release. It will continue to lock and then unlock while driving. This is happening with regular driving, and not ... Read more

Incident date: May 14, 2022

AWD indicator states off while driving at times without warning. Also leaking sludge. Now need to replace PTU and FORD AWD vehicles are known for this issue... Needs to be recalled as system can fail and explode.. This is supposed last the lifetime of the vehicle and is not set up for maintenance ca... Read more

Incident date: May 14, 2022

Incident date: Oct 1, 2020

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Flex. The contact initially received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 20V072000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact then received a second recall notice which stated that parts were now available. The dealer was... Read more

Incident date: Nov 7, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD FLEX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V072000 (SUSPENSION) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT CALLED MIKE RAISOR FORD (2051 SAGAMORE PKWY S, LAFAYETTE, IN 47905; (765) 447-9444) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 28, 2020

ON MONDAY, SEPT 28, 2020 AT APPROXIMATELY 10:30 AM WHILE DRIVING SOUTHBOUND ON INTERSTATE 5 (JUST BEFORE THE WEST MOUNTAIN VIEW OVERPASS IN FIREBAUGH CA) DOING 70 MPH, THE CAR BEGAN FISHTAILING ERRATICALLY - SWERVING BETWEEN LANES. FORTUNATELY, THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO MANEUVER THE CAR TO THE RIGHT SH... Read more

Incident date: Sep 28, 2020

Incident date: Oct 16, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD FLEX. THE CONTACT BECAME AWARE THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V027000 (SUSPENSION) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. WOODY ANDERSON FORD (2500 JORDAN LN NW, HUNTSVILLE, AL 35810, (256) 513-4597) WAS CONTACTED BY PHO... Read more

Incident date: Feb 10, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD FLEX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V072000 (SUSPENSION). THE CONTACT CALLED THE BOB RIDINGS DECATUR DEALER LOCATED AT 3103 N 22ND ST, DECATUR, IL 62526, AND IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD FLEX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V072000 (SUSPENSION) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CROSSROADS FORD OF SOUTHERN PINES (1590 US-1, SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387; 910) 692-8765) WHERE I... Read more

Incident date: Jan 27, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD FLEX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V072000 (SUSPENSION) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. SUBURBAN FORD OF STERLING HEIGHTS (40333 VAN DYKE AVE, STERLING HEIGHTS, MI 48313, (586) 434-0942) WAS CONTACTED AND IT... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2020

LOSS OF POWER, RPM TOO HIGH FOR NORMAL SHIFTING UP TO 6 RPMS. CAT CONVERTER NOISE AFTER CAR SHUT OFF DUE TO GETTING TO HOT. FLUCTUATION RPM AT IDLE. OIL ON TOP OF VALVE COVER. *TR

Incident date: Apr 3, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD FLEX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING AT 45 MPH, SHE DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AS SHE HEARD APPROACHING POLICE SIRENS. AS THE CONTACT CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP, SHE WAS HIT FROM BEHIND BY ANOTHER VEHICLE AND WAS THRUST INTO THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION. THE AI... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Apr 3, 2020

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Jan 31, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 FORD FLEX. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, SHE NOTICED THAT THE WINDSHIELD SHOWED DISTORTED VIEWS OF ABNORMAL OBJECTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A CORWIN FORD LOCATED AT 1225 AUTO PLEX WAY, PASCO, WA 99301) FOR REPAIRS HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ... Read more

Showing 50 of 53 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2017 FORD FLEX

2017 Ford Flex SUV AWD

Category	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	15.1%

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, 2017 FORD FLEX

123 manufacturer communications from 71 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	28
350000 EQUIPMENT	13
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL	10
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER	6
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	5
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	5
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	3
063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL	3

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

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

The Service Awareness Newsletter is an informal communication that contains information that may not be presently available in a TSB, SSM, GSB, or other electronic communication. This article includes information on warranty, technical serv

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2017-2022 Ford/Lincoln customers may experience a notification in the FordPass??A???A???A???A?/LincolnWay??A???A???A???A? app indicating Vehicle Has Entered Deep Sleep Mode. This occurs when the vehicle has not been started for 14 cons

220000 SEATS

Some 2017-2018 Focus/MKX/C-MAX, 2017-2019 MKC/Taurus/Flex/MKT, 2017-2020 Fusion/MKZ/Continental, 2017-2022 Mustang/Edge/Explorer/Police Interceptor Utility/Escape/F-150/F-Super Duty, 2018-2022 Expedition/Navigator, 2019-2022 Ranger/Nautilus

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

Some customers may experience a notification in the FordPass and/or LincolnWay apps that indicates their vehicle has entered "deep sleep mode". This mode is enabled due to the vehicle not being started for 14 consecutive days or battery vol

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

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some 2016-2018 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may exhibit an intermittent blue or black screen. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update APIM so

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL

Certain 2017 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines - California Emission Warranty Parts Coverage

063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL

Certain 2017 Model Year Multiple Vehicle Lines - California Emission Warranty Parts Coverage

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

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Some 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 the VCT solenoid to stick. B

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

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may exhibit an intermittent blue or black screen. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update APIM so

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Some 2016-2017 Ford/Lincoln vehicles SYNC 3 may exhibit an intermittent blank screen. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update APIM software. During th

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

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

SOME 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 THE VCT SOLENOID TO STICK. B

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

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

SOME 2016-2017 FORD AND LINCOLN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SYNC 3 AND NAVIGATION MAY EXHIBIT A CONDITION IN WHICH THE SIRIUSXM TRAFFIC LISTING IS NOT LOADING BUT ALL REMAINING TRAVEL LINK FEATURES OPERATE PROPERLY. SIRIUSXM TRAFFIC IS ONLY AVAI

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)

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

Showing 100 of 123 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 (current)	4	53
2016	3	121	View
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

2017 FORD FLEX

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2017 FORD FLEX

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2017 FORD FLEX

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD FLEX

FORD FLEX - All Years Overview

FORD FLEX - Year by Year

Other FORD Models