2017 Ford Flex

The 2017 Ford Flex is a unique and spacious crossover known for its distinctive boxy styling and comfortable ride. Engine options for the 2017 model year include a 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque and a more powerful 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Flex for its ample passenger and cargo space, its smooth ride, and its distinctive styling. Common complaints include its dated infotainment system, fuel economy, and large size, which can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine

3.5L Ti-VCT V6

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, often from the water pump or thermostat housing. May notice a sweet smell, low coolant levels, or overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty water pump or thermostat housing and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and a check engine light. Diagnostic codes will indicate a specific cylinder with an ignition coil issue.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s) and spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (depending on how many coils need replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine, reduced power, and potential turbocharger failure. May also see a check engine light.
  • Solution: Diagnose the turbocharger issue (leaks, damaged impellers). Repair or replace the affected turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ (depending on the extent of damage and whether one or both turbos need replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Intrusion into Cylinders
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from the exhaust, coolant loss, rough running, and eventually engine failure. This is caused by cracking of the cylinder heads.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cylinder heads or complete engine replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4000 - $8000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6F50 6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts between gears, slipping during acceleration, and general erratic transmission behavior.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change can sometimes resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. Can also cause stalling and transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo. Can affect ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shocks and springs, potentially with heavy-duty options.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bumpy ride, poor handling, clunking noises when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ (per pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SYNC System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, failure to connect to devices, and general unresponsiveness of the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software updates (if available) may resolve some issues. In more severe cases, replacement of the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $500 - $1000+ (APIM replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks that intermittently fail to lock or unlock, or make a clicking noise without functioning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ (per door)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the liftgate, often due to a faulty liftgate motor or latch mechanism.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate motor, latch, or supporting struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the air conditioning or heating system, such as failure to blow cold or hot air, or inconsistent temperature control.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the climate control system, potentially requiring replacement of the blend door actuator, blower motor, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Ford Flex, while generally reliable, can be susceptible to certain issues. The most concerning issues relate to the 3.5L EcoBoost engine, particularly coolant intrusion, which can lead to major engine damage and high repair costs. Other issues, such as transmission problems and electrical glitches, are more common and can range in severity and cost. The SYNC system issues are a common complaint but generally do not affect the vehicle’s mechanical operation. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended to assess the overall condition of the vehicle and identify any existing or potential issues.