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2012 Ford Flex

Introduction:

The 2012 Ford Flex is a versatile crossover SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options. It is available with three engine choices: the base 3.5L Duratec V6, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, and the 3.7L Cyclone V6. Transmission options include a 6-speed automatic for the 3.5L Duratec V6 and 3.7L Cyclone V6, and a 6-speed SelectShift automatic for the 3.5L EcoBoost V6.

Engine

3.5L Duratec V6

  • Valve Body Failure: Symptoms include rough shifting, delayed engagement, and transmission slipping. Solution: Replacement of the valve body. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Torque Converter Lock-up Solenoid Failure: Symptoms include shuddering and jerking during acceleration. Solution: Replacement of the torque converter lock-up solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Intake Manifold Failure: Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, and check engine light. Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Coolant Leak from Water Pump: Symptoms include low coolant levels and visible leaks. Solution: Replacement of the water pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600

3.5L EcoBoost V6

  • Turbocharger Failure: Symptoms include loss of power, excessive smoke, and check engine light. Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Fuel Pump Failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting, reduced fuel economy, and check engine light. Solution: Replacement of the fuel pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure: Symptoms include engine hesitation, loss of power, and check engine light. Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

3.7L Cyclone V6

  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, especially during startup. Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Exhaust Camshaft Phaser Failure: Symptoms include rough idling and reduced fuel economy. Solution: Replacement of the camshaft phaser. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission Slipping: Symptoms include loss of power, delayed engagement, and jerking during acceleration. Solution: Overhaul or replacement of the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Shift Solenoid Failure: Symptoms include harsh shifting and delayed engagement. Solution: Replacement of the shift solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

6-Speed SelectShift Automatic

  • Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure: Symptoms include lack of gear engagement, flashing check engine light, and shifting problems. Solution: Replacement of the TCM. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Torque Converter Clutch Failure: Symptoms include overheating, loss of power, and check engine light. Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+

Suspension

  • Front Strut Failure: Symptoms include a clunking noise from the suspension, decreased ride quality, and premature tire wear. Solution: Replacement of the front struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Rear Shock Failure: Symptoms include a bumpy ride, reduced traction, and difficulty controlling the vehicle. Solution: Replacement of the rear shocks. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600

Electrical

  • Electrical Short in Wiring Harness: Symptoms include intermittent electrical failures, blown fuses, and check engine light. Solution: Repair or replacement of the faulty wiring harness. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Rearview Camera Failure: Symptoms include a blank or distorted display on the rearview camera. Solution: Replacement of the rearview camera. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700

Exterior

  • Power Window Motor Failure: Symptoms include difficulty opening or closing the windows. Solution: Replacement of the window motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Side Mirror Motor Failure: Symptoms include difficulty adjusting the side mirror. Solution: Replacement of the side mirror motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Interior

  • Interior Trim Noise: Symptoms include squeaks and rattles from the plastic interior trim. Solution: Tightening or adding sound deadening material. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Heater Core Failure: Symptoms include a lack of heat from the heater. Solution: Replacement of the heater core. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Summary:

The 2012 Ford Flex is generally a reliable vehicle, but it has some potential issues to watch out for. Engine problems, such as turbocharger failures on the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, including slipping and harsh shifting, can also be expensive to fix. However, many of the other reported issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to resolve.

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