The used Ford Flex to target is a 2013-2019 model with the 287-hp 3.5-liter V6, from an owner who can show cooling-system records, because that engine's water pump sits inside the engine and a leak can ruin it. The 365-hp twin-turbo AWD version is much quicker but carries its own fuel-pump and turbo oil-line recalls. On 2015-2019 cars, also expect open 2025 recalls for the backup camera and, on 2017-2019 models, the B-pillar trim.
The Flex ran from the 2009 to the 2019 model year, built in Oakville, Ontario. CNBC reported in October 2019 that Ford would end production that November as it shifted toward trucks and SUVs. I ran all eleven years through NHTSA's recall and complaint data on Friday, October 16, 2026. It's a likable, roomy wagon, and an old Ford with a few expensive habits.
Two generations, two V6 engines
Consumer Reports splits the Flex into 2009-2012 and 2013-2019. For 2013, Ford added variable cam timing to the base 3.5-liter V6, which raised output from 262 to 287 hp. CR praises the quiet ride, the huge second row and a usable third row, and knocks the clumsy handling, big turning circle and poor rear visibility. On the early cars, CR called MyFord Touch complicated and distracting.
Car and Driver's 2019 review lists the same pair of 3.5-liter V6s, both with a six-speed automatic. The base engine came with front- or all-wheel drive. The twin-turbo, offered on the Limited, made 365 hp, came only with AWD, and ran 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds in C/D testing. The base SE lacked a touchscreen; Sync 3 with CarPlay came on SEL and Limited. EPA combined ratings sit at a thirsty 17 to 19 mpg.
The water pump problem, and why paperwork matters
The base 3.5 uses a water pump driven by the timing chain and buried behind the timing cover. A class action claimed those pumps can leak coolant into the oil, which can destroy the engine, and listed the Flex among the affected Fords. CarComplaints.com reported in January 2024 that the case was dismissed with prejudice after Ford settled confidentially with the seven named plaintiffs. The suit claimed labor alone can run about $1,500. NHTSA lists no water pump recall for the Flex, so plan on paying for one yourself.
NHTSA's complaint file backs up the worry without proving a rate. Of 144 complaints on the 2011 Flex, 11 mention the water pump, including an owner told there was water inside the engine after overheating at 65 mph. So check the coolant level cold, look at the underside of the oil cap for milky residue, and ask whether the pump was ever replaced and when. A receipt for a pump and timing job is worth more to me than a fresh detail.
Recalls by year
These come from the NHTSA recalls API, queried year by year this afternoon:
- 2009-2012 (16V247): the driver frontal airbag may inflate improperly in second-stage deployment.
- 2011-2012 EcoBoost and all 2013 Flexes (15V340): electric power steering assist may shut off from a motor sensor fault.
- 2013-2014 built September 12, 2011 to November 30, 2013 (14V393): a halfshaft circlip may be missing, letting the halfshaft pull out of the linkshaft.
- 2013-2015 EcoBoost (16V621): the fuel pump electric module can overheat, so the engine stalls or won't start.
- 2016-2017 EcoBoost (16V925): badly brazed turbo oil supply tubes can leak oil onto the engine, a fire risk.
- 2015-2019 (25V695): the backup camera may show a blank or distorted image. It's a phased remedy; interim letters went out October 25, 2025.
- 2017-2019 (25V732): the B-pillar door trim may come off while driving. NHTSA's record says the remedy is anticipated in March 2027.
Several recalls cover narrow build dates, so run the VIN. Our Ford recall check by VIN post shows how, and the Ford VIN decoder guide helps confirm which engine it has.
What the complaint counts say
The 2013 Flex has the biggest pile, 580 complaints, and 271 mention doors. The ones I read describe door-ajar warnings that won't clear and interior lights that stay on and drain the battery. Open and shut every door, then watch the dash. The 2019 has 254 complaints, and 143 are tagged back-over prevention, which lines up with the camera recalls.
Safety and how it compares
IIHS rates the Flex Good in moderate overlap, side, roof and head restraints, but only Acceptable in the driver-side small overlap test, with the structure rated Marginal. That rating applies to every year from 2009 to 2019. Headlights rate Marginal or Poor depending on trim.
The Explorer from the same years is the obvious alternative, and our used Ford Explorer guide covers it. It's taller and more common, while the Flex rides lower and feels more like a car. If you mostly haul kids, a minivan may suit you better; see our guides to the used Dodge Grand Caravan and the used Chrysler Pacifica.
Pull the history yourself
Family haulers rack up miles, fender benders and the odd flood title. Check brands for free on NMVTIS, and pull a full report on the VIN rather than accepting a seller's printout, since doctored PDFs do turn up. We're a licensed CARFAX and AutoCheck reseller, not affiliated with CARFAX, AutoCheck or Experian. This month, one report through us has been around $5.50 as a guest or $4.50 for members, with a two-report bundle near $6.75, while retail tends to be $39.99 to $44.99. The checkout page has the real number.
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