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2013 Ford Flex

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2013 Ford Flex is a full-size crossover SUV known for its distinctive boxy design, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. Engine options include a 3.5L V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, as well as a more powerful 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine generating 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Flex for its ample cargo space, comfortable seating, and unique styling. Common dislikes include its somewhat polarizing exterior design and potentially lower fuel economy, especially with the EcoBoost engine.

Engine

3.5L V6

  • Water Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, and a potential loss of engine power. Often, the water pump will start to make noise before it fails.
    • Solution: Replace the water pump and associated components (belts, hoses, etc.).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, unusual noises from the engine bay, and the engine may go into limp mode.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger(s) and inspect associated components (lines, intercooler, etc.).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+ (depending on if one or both turbos need replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, lean codes (P0171, P0174), rough idle, and reduced engine performance.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6F50)

  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration or cruising speeds, often felt between 30-45 mph.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter. A transmission flush can also help in some cases but may not be a permanent fix.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ (torque converter replacement), $200 - $400 (transmission flush).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Harsh Shifting/Delayed Engagement
    • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears (e.g., 1-2 or 2-3).
    • Solution: In some cases, a software update of the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. More severe cases might require valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (TCM reprogramming), $800 - $1500+ (valve body), $3000 - $5000+ (transmission rebuild/replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Suspension Sag/Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, especially when loaded. If equipped with air suspension, the compressor may fail or the air springs may leak, leading to a malfunctioning suspension system.
    • Solution: Replace the rear springs or air springs and inspect/replace the air suspension compressor and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (spring replacement), $500 - $1500+ (air suspension repair).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Uneven tire wear may also be present.
    • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per side, depending on whether bushings or the entire arm are replaced).
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • SYNC System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response times, inability to connect to devices via Bluetooth, and other general malfunctions of the SYNC infotainment system.
    • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In more severe cases, replacement of the SYNC module might be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update - often free at the dealership), $500 - $1000+ (SYNC module replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly or not at all. You may hear a clicking noise when you try to use the window.
    • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (per window).
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Liftgate Strut Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate will not stay open on its own and falls down.
    • Solution: Replace the liftgate struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Climate Control Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning or heating blows only hot or cold air, regardless of the selected temperature. Mode door actuators may fail, preventing air from being directed to the correct vents.
    • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty blend door actuators or other climate control components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Ford Flex, while generally a reliable vehicle, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The water pump and turbocharger problems on the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 can be quite expensive to repair. Suspension issues such as the rear air suspension issues and control arm bushings can affect ride quality and safety. Electrical issues, particularly with the SYNC system, can be frustrating for owners. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs, so a thorough inspection before purchasing a used 2013 Ford Flex is recommended.

Ford, Flex
Ford Flex 2013
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