Flex appeals for its versatility
Model: 2008+ Ford Flex Vehicle type: Crossover History/description: The popular Ford Flex is one of the most easy-to-spot crossovers on the road today and since its 2009 launch this flexible hauler has been enjoyed by countless Canadian families. With its decidedly box-like looks, all-wheel drive and no shortage of flexibility and space, Flex provided three seating rows, room for seven and feature content to spare. Look for Ford Sync, navigation, a panoramic sunroof, a backup camera, radar cruise control, a remote starter, premium stereo implements, automatic lights, climate control and plenty more. Model-year 2013 saw Flex updated for more standard power and a freshened look. All units got V6 power. Common was a 3.5-litre V6 with horsepower pegged around 260 or 290, depending on the year. The available EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 jacked the output to 355 horses. The base V6 engine could be teamed up with front- or allwheel drive and the EcoBoost engine saw AWD fitted as standard. All units were automatic. What owners like: From family hauler to AWD office space, owners find plenty of appeal in the Flex’s space and versatility. Performance is highly rated from EcoBoost powered models, as is driving confidence in inclement weather on units with the AWD system. For comfort, versatility and looks, this machine seems to satisfy easily. What owners dislike: Owner gripes include heavy fuel use on EcoBoost models and some challenge to parking the Flex, largely on account of its long wheelbase and thin windows. The test drive: First, decide which Flex you’re after. Note that the EcoBoost engine can be thirsty, especially when used by lead-footed drivers. Also, note that Flex models with larger wheels and tires will incur heavier costs when it comes time for new rubber. Understand the cost of tires for the Flex before you buy it to avoid wallet-emptying surprises. To keep ongoing costs down, opting for a low to mid-grade model without the EcoBoost engine and avoiding up-sized wheels is likely best. Have a technician inspect the power takeoff unit (PTU) of the vehicle you’re considering, noting that this component is only present on Flex models with AWD. In this application, and numerous others, owners have reported that the component may leak over time, which could cause damage to the AWD system if left unchecked. Though this issue only affected some models, shoppers are still best to ensure the PTU is professionally inspected before they buy. Note that many owners choose to inspect this component and change the fluid within it more frequently than advised in the service schedule, to help prevent headaches. Grab a rag and press it into the front corners of the Flex’s floor, in the foot wells. Any wetness in this area may be a sign of a leaky weather seal, a blocked or damaged sunroof drain tube, or a problem with the vehicle’s air conditioner (in which condensation builds excessively and leaks into the area). Confirm that the Flex you’re considering isn’t suffering from an unwanted water leak before you buy. Some owners have reported engine overheating in certain situations, which causes a warning light to illuminate and requires that the vehicle be pulled over and stopped immediately. This issue could be caused by a wonky cooling fan module, which is easy to address. Some owners have replaced this component themselves, but a visit to the dealer for a professional assessment is likely best. If you’re considering an EcoBoost powered model, then budgeting for an extended powertrain warranty is also advised. Some owners have had no problems with their EcoBoost powered Flexes, and some have had many. Servicing and maintenance may play a major role in the reliability of this engine, though sporadic reports of engine failure timing chain issues, misfiring and turbocharger problems mean extra care is required. Buying an EcoBoost powered Flex without a full inspection by a Ford technician, and an extended powertrain warranty, is not advised. Further, note that transmission trouble, including hard shifting or difficulty moving smoothly between each gear, may require a transmission fluid flush and fill, a reprogramming of the transmission’s computer brain, or the replacement of one or more transmission sensors to remedy. Reports of issues like these are minor against overall sales volume, but test drivers should be on the lookout for issues, nonetheless. Random issues with the infotainment system, accessories, stereo, windows, locks, alarm system and other electronics may be frequent and frustrating if the battery in the Flex you’re considering is weak and dying. Do not underestimate how much havoc a weak battery can wreak with modern car electronics, and replace the battery in your used Flex at the first sign of trouble. Finally, save yourself from buying someone else’s upcoming water pump repair bill by having a technician confirm that the water pump isn’t leaking, and by having them check for signs of coolant and engine oil cross-contamination, especially on 2011 and older models. Water pump failure can cause catastrophic engine damage and, while reports are minor against overall sales volume, some owners have reported failure of this component and lofty replacement bills. This reinforces the importance of regular fluid level checks and regular professional inspections and maintenance. Some owners even choose to pre-emptively replace their water pumps at around 150,000 kilometres to avoid possible headaches. The verdict: Flex is muchloved by a large owner’s community, though shoppers are advised to consider a pre-purchase inspection to be mandatory before agreeing to buy a used copy of this machine. The technician should pay close attention to the water pump on either engine, as well as any possible trouble-signs from the EcoBoost engine. An extended powertrain warranty is also well worth consideration.