FORD FLEX Reliability by Year
Best & Worst Years, Problems & Recalls β NHTSA Data
Comparing used FORD FLEX options? We analyzed 10 model years (2017β2026) using real NHTSA complaint and recall data so you can spot stronger years, avoid riskier ones, and know what to inspect before buying.
Model-year trends show patterns. Run a VIN check for the exact FORD FLEX you plan to buy.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the FORD FLEX has 303 owner complaints and 11 safety recalls across model years 2017β2026. The most reported issue area is BACK OVER PREVENTION. 2019 drew the most complaints; 2017 drew the fewest.
- Make
- FORD
- Model
- FLEX
- Model years analyzed
- 2017β2026 (10 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 303
- Safety recall campaigns
- 11
- Crash-related complaints
- 13
- Fire-related complaints
- 0
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2019 (205 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2017 (39 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Reliability signal
- Poor
FORD FLEX: Which Years to Avoid & Which to Buy
Based on total NHTSA owner complaints per model year. Higher complaint counts indicate a riskier year to buy used β lower counts suggest a cleaner reliability record.
These years have the most owner complaints. Inspect carefully and always run a VIN check.
These years have the fewest owner complaints on record β lower risk starting points.
β NHTSA NCAP Crash Test Ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
NCAP crash test ratings for this model are not yet loaded or this vehicle was not tested in the years analyzed. NHTSA tests a subset of new vehicles each year. Check nhtsa.gov/ratings directly for the latest results.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
PoorThe FORD FLEX has 303 NHTSA complaints and 11 recalls on record. 13 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- 303 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 11 federal recall campaigns
- 13 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with elevated complaint rates.
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with fewer reported issues.
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
π NHTSA Safety Recalls
11 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2017β2026. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
π§ Most-Reported Problem Areas
Based on component keywords extracted from all 303 NHTSA complaints.
π NHTSA Complaint Reports
303 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Flex. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's side B-Pillar Applique Trim detached and flew off. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure, and the contact was informed that the parts were unavailable. The contact received a recall notification, NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V732000 (Structure) however the parts were unavailable. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
I am submitting this complaint to report a serious and potentially dangerous safety defect involving the internal water pump design in the 3.5L Duratec V6 engine used in my 2017 Ford Flex. The water pump in this engine is mounted internally behind the timing chain cover. When the pump fails, coolant is not externally visible but instead leaks directly into the engine oil. This design prevents early detection and warning, leading to rapid and catastrophic engine failure without adequate notice to the driver. In my case, the water pump failed suddenly, allowing coolant to contaminate the engine oil. This resulted in total engine failure and immediate loss of vehicle operability.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Flex. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V732000 (Structure) and 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
My 2017 Ford Flex has an open safety recall for the rearview camera system (Ford Recall 25S49 / NHTSA Recall 25V695). The recall states the camera may display a blank image or show the message βCamera Unavailableβ when the vehicle is placed in reverse. My vehicle is actively experiencing this exact failure. The screen frequently displays βCamera Unavailable,β preventing the rearview camera safety feature from functioning when the vehicle is put in reverse. I received the recall notice in October 2025. Since then I have contacted my Ford dealership several times and have been told that parts are still not available to repair the recall. Ford initially provided an estimated remedy date of January 2026. This date was later moved to June 20, 2026. I was recently informed that the date has now been removed completely and there is no estimated timeline for when the recall repair will be available. The safety recall remains unresolved while the defect continues to occur on the vehicle. The rearview camera is an important safety feature that assists drivers when reversing. I am submitting this complaint because the recall repair has been delayed for many months while the safety defect is actively occurring.
Hello, I recently submitted a safety complaint regarding my 2017 Ford Flex. The complaint number is XXX. I would like to add additional information that I forgot to include in the original report. The vehicleβs power liftgate has intermittently opened on its own while the vehicle was parked. There have been occasions where I came outside and found the liftgate open overnight in my driveway. This issue appears to be intermittent and part of the same electrical problems affecting the backup camera system described in my complaint. Please add this information to my existing complaint. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Flex. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the rear-view camera image was blank or inverted while the vehicle was in reverse(R). The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was unreachable. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Ford Flex. The contact stated that months after a routine service appointment with a local dealer, the rear-view camera failed to operate as designed. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention). The dealer and the manufacturer were contacted, and the contact was informed that the part for the recall repair was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
While driving down the highway the black door panel next to the window flew off from the front passenger door and the rear drivers side passenger door. These were not loose or of concern previous to this happening. My concern when this happened is that it would hit another driver's vehicle and damage it, or potentially cause an accident because I was on the highway. Had I been on our pedestrian street, what if this happened and hit someone? I see there is a recall for other Ford Flex doors, but I'm not sure if this is the same issue. There were no warnings that this may happen, we noticed when they hit the rear windows when they detached and my children yelled about something hitting their window.
The rear seat belts come unbuckled. I was driving and about to get on a highway, and my children told me their seat belts unbuckled, another time it happened while I was driving in town. There's been a few others times too. I have not taken my vehicle to a dealer to check it out. This vehicle has not been inspected by anyone. No lights came on when the seat belt unbuckled. It has been happening on and off for a few years.
Back up camera has distorted image & blank screen
Backup camera frequently goes blank. I noticed an active recall for other ford vehicles and wanted to report Iβm having the same issue with my 2017 ford flex, so Iβm hoping the flexes will be added to the recall.
The backup camera failed in my 2017 Ford Flex. It has gotten worse over time and now doesnβt come on at all or just for a second or two. I get a blue screen of death most of the time. It makes it much unsafer to parallel park and backup into a parking spot. Every time I try to use it I get an error message saying the camera is not working. This message stay on the car screen until I press the ok button. Most times the error message doesnβt come on until Iβm driving so I have to take my eyes off the road to acknowledge it. I took it to my local repair shop. They told me Ford dealership had to fix. Please add the Ford Flex to the recall announced yesterday.
The rear-facing camera in the tailgate of my 2017 Ford Flex is defective and is experiencing the same issue included within the recent NHTSA Campaign # 25V572000. The fact that the 2017 Ford Flex is not included within the recall is highly suspect and should be investigated further. Our safety and the safety of others is put at risk because the driver could accidentally back up into an object or individual, causing damage, injury or loss of life. The issue is reproduceable and has happened a number of times, and has been confirmed by our local dealer, Shawnee Mission Ford. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer directly (other than through the dealership), police, insurance, or others. There are no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms other than those expressly noted in the aforementioned campaign.
My back up camera not working blanking out dorstort screen
Component or System Failed: The rearview/backup camera system has failed. The image consistently displays upside down when the camera activates, and at times the camera does not turn on at all. The system remains installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: This malfunction severely impairs rear visibility when reversing, creating a significant safety hazard. The distorted image increases the risk of backing into pedestrians, objects, or other vehicles, especially in crowded areas or where children may be present. Problem Confirmation: The problem has been reproduced multiple times by me. It has not yet been confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. Inspection History: The vehicle has not yet been inspected for this specific issue by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or other parties. Warning Lamps / Messages: No warning lamps or dashboard error messages appear when the failure occurs. The first occurrence was around [insert approximate date/mileage], and the problem has been ongoing since then. Additional Information: I am aware that Ford has an active recall for backup camera failures on certain models. My vehicle exhibits the same symptoms, but my make/model is not currently included in that recall. This is an ongoing problem. Not one specific incident.
This be chile was purchased by me when living in the United States and imported when I moved back to Canada. The Rear Camera frequently shows as not working, goes blank or picture breaks up. Itβs an on going problem, which makes parking and backing up problematic
Subject: Request for Review: 2017 Ford Flex Rear Suspension Toe Link Failure Outside Recall VIN Range To: NHTSA I am writing to formally request a review and consideration of my vehicle's eligibility for RECALL 20V072000 (Ford Recall 20S04), which addresses rear suspension toe link fractures on 2013-2018 Ford Flex models. My vehicle is a 2017 Ford Flex, and it recently experienced a failure of the right rear toe link, consistent with the failure mode described in the recall. However, after contacting my local Ford Dealership (Rowe Ford, Westbrook, ME) and the Ford Motor Company, I was informed that my VIN is not included in the recall coverage. I had the right rear toe link repaired and paid for it. I am concerned that the same issue could occur in my left rear toe link, so I am working to have that part preemptively replaced at my own expense. I believe that the exclusion of my vehicle by VIN may be inappropriate for the following reasons: 1. Model year and component match: My Flex falls well within the model years (2013-2018) covered by the recall, and the failed part is the exact component under scrutiny. 2. Failure occurred during normal driving conditions and almost caused an accident. 3. Ford's recall criteria appear overly narrow, possibly omitting vehicles that still contain defective parts, like my vehicle. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this matter and determine whether the VIN range for this recall should be expanded to include additional vehicles like mine that have experienced identical part failures with potential life threatening safety concerns. I have uploaded invoices from my local dealership repair facility. One invoice is for the work to replace the failed right rear toe link and the other is for preemptive replacement of the left rear toe link that I chose to commission on my own.
When I go in reverse my camera suddenly turns off or goes upside down risking property damage and personal injury. It doesn't happen every time just out of know where.
My car is making a weird popping noise accompanied by a slight jolt when itβs changing gears while driving. I was told the 2017 ford flexes where part of the campaign number 22S43 a recall affecting the 2017 Ford Flex primarily concerns a potential issue with the transmission shifter cable bushing, which could become damaged or missing, potentially preventing the transmission from properly shifting into the intended gear position and increasing the risk of the vehicle rolling away when parked. My vehicle is showing the same indicators.
My cv joints are popping I wanted to make sure this didn't have any recalls on it before I fixed it
Showing 20 of 303 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Before You Buy, Check the Exact FORD FLEX
These pages show model-year patterns across 10years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
π Understanding This Data
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is β but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The FORD FLEX has 303 complaints on record across 10 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The FORD FLEX has 11 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 13 of the FORD FLEX's 303 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions β a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the Reliability Verdict Calculated?
The reliability verdict (Poor) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. This verdict gives buyers a quick interpretation before they review year-level details and VIN-level history. It should be treated as one decision input, not a substitute for a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable β simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all FORD FLEX vehicles on the road β not any specific car. Two FORD FLEX vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage β NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The FORD FLEX has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.
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