2017 Ford Flex

2017 Ford Flex

Overview

The 2017 Ford Flex is a spacious and versatile three-row SUV known for its distinctive styling and comfortable ride. Reliability data for this model year indicates a generally solid performance, with most reported issues being relatively minor or specific to certain components rather than widespread systemic failures. Owners generally appreciate the Flex’s practicality and family-friendly features. However, as with any vehicle, there are specific areas that have seen more attention from repair shops, particularly concerning the powertrain and certain electronic systems. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for prospective buyers and current owners.

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Engine

3.5L Ti-VCT V6

Cooling System Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible puddles under the vehicle.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking hoses, water pump, or radiator.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Variable Cam Timing (VCT) System Issues

• Symptoms: Rough idle, engine knocking or ticking noises, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of VCT solenoids or phaser assemblies.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

3.5L EcoBoost V6

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, black smoke from exhaust.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of turbocharger assembly.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

Direct Injection System Problems

• Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, reduced fuel economy, check engine light.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of fuel injectors.
• Cost: $600 - $1500

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6F50/6F55)

Hesitation or Shuddering

• Symptoms: Jerking or shuddering during acceleration or gear changes.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, potential software update or internal component repair.
• Cost: $400 - $1000

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to engage gears, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Replacement of the TCM.
• Cost: $500 - $900

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Electrical

Infotainment System (SYNC)

Screen Freezing or Unresponsiveness

• Symptoms: Touchscreen becomes unresponsive, system freezes or reboots randomly.
• Solution: Software update, system reset, or replacement of the infotainment module.
• Cost: $300 - $1000

Power Liftgate

Malfunctioning Liftgate Motor

• Symptoms: Liftgate fails to open or close automatically, unusual noises.
• Solution: Replacement of the liftgate motor or associated sensors.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Exterior

Body Panels and Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Interior

Climate Control System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or direct airflow to specific vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Seat Actuators

Power Seat Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Power seats fail to move forward, backward, or adjust height.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of seat motors or control modules.
• Cost: $300 - $700

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Summary Verdict

The 2017 Ford Flex presents a generally reliable profile, with most owners reporting satisfaction. The most common technical concerns tend to revolve around the powertrain, specifically the cooling system and VCT components for the naturally aspirated V6, and turbocharger or direct injection issues for the EcoBoost variant. Transmission issues, while not rampant, can manifest as hesitation or shuddering. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the SYNC infotainment system and power liftgate, are also noted. Interior components like climate control blend doors and power seat actuators can occasionally require attention. Overall, the Flex is a capable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of these specific areas and ensure thorough pre-purchase inspections, especially for higher-mileage examples.