2016 Ford Flex Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
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.
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 reportedUsage: 17 reports
2. Suspension
Usage: 9 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $70 - $120
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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.