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2016 Ford Flex Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2016 Ford Flex Report

Overall Score

6.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The turbocharger oil supply tubes are a significant concern due to a fire risk recall; verify this repair is completed.
  • Expect potential issues with the electrical system, especially the rearview camera, which is a frequent complaint and recall item.
  • The rear suspension toe links have been subject to recalls, impacting vehicle stability.
  • Powertrain complaints, including loss of power and transmission issues, are notable.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Ford Flex

The 2016 Ford Flex offers a spacious and distinctive package, but used car shoppers should be aware of its reliability shortcomings. With 12 recalls and 96 complaints logged with NHTSA, this model presents potential ownership challenges. The primary concerns revolve around the electrical system, particularly the rearview camera, and critical powertrain components like turbocharger oil supply tubes and rear suspension toe links. Given the number of recalls, potential repair costs for underlying issues could be a factor. Fuel economy is average for its class, with a combined EPA rating of 17 MPG.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent issues with the rearview camera system, leading to malfunction or complete failure. This mirrors a high volume of recalls and complaints.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,500-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls12
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

96
Electrical System17
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
17
MPG
City
15
MPG
Highway
21
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing distinctive styling and a spacious interior over top-tier reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Ford Flex Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Ford Flex.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
17

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 17 reports

2. Suspension

Usage: 9 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter)

Est. shop cost: $70 - $120

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (7 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
12 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Ford Flex reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Ford Flex is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 12. Owner complaints: 96.

How practical is the 2016 Ford Flex for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Ford Flex?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Ford Flex is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.4/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Ford Flex?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,800. Repair prediction highlight: Rearview Camera System (typical at 55,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).

What engine is in the 2016 Ford Flex?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2016 Ford Flex use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Flex, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Ford Flex?▾

EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Ford Flex?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Ford Flex?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Flex, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Ford Flex use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Ford Flex, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Ford Flex?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2016 Ford Flex good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2016 Ford Flex, a car category vehicle, presents a unique profile for owners. It features a 3.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2016 Ford Flex?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (17 reports, 17.7% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Ford Flex?▾

This model year has 12 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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