2013 Ford Flex

Above average

Owners filed 580 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the electrical system. It has been recalled 6 times.

Avoid One of the Ford Flex years to avoid: 4.2× the complaints of a typical Flex year. Which Ford Flex years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
65,000 milesMedian miles at failure

434 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2013 Ford Flex problems

159 of the 580 complaints (27%) are about the electrical system.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Electrical System159
110
Steering132
400
Structure › Body · body and frame55
001
Unknown or Other54
100
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system42
004
Engine23
000
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control20
000
Suspension10
001
Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch · door locks and latches8
000
Structure › Body › Door · body and frame7
000

2013 Ford Flex electrical system problems

27% of all complaints

159 of the 580 complaints are about the electrical system. This is what owners describe:

  • sets off warning lights on the dash13% · 21
  • drains the battery or stops charging4% · 7
  • stalls4% · 6
  • will not start3% · 5

Share of the 159 electrical system complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
55,283 mi
median of 123 reports
Peak year of filing
2015
40 electrical system complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
1 · 1 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the electrical system
None
“The passenger-side front door latch sensor is defective. The door latches securely when closed, but the door AJAR warning light remains illuminated. This leads to several issues including: - interior lights don't turn off for a very long time after the door is closed (i.e.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 19, 2021
“I had a recall for the driver door latch to be replaced. The very day that it was replaced, I get in, start my vehicle and the passenger door light comes on showing that it's open but it wasn't. I immediately go back inside to ask the service department since they literally just replaced the recalled drivers door latch. They stated that "it's a coincidence " and that it would cost to fix it.”
Owner complaint, filed Jun 7, 2021

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2012: 1 complaints, 0 about the electrical system'122013: 10 complaints, 0 about the electrical system2014: 15 complaints, 3 about the electrical system'142015: 66 complaints, 40 about the electrical system2016: 100 complaints, 35 about the electrical system'162017: 86 complaints, 27 about the electrical system2018: 74 complaints, 20 about the electrical system'182019: 60 complaints, 13 about the electrical system2020: 41 complaints, 6 about the electrical system'202021: 35 complaints, 6 about the electrical system2022: 17 complaints, 2 about the electrical system'222023: 21 complaints, 3 about the electrical system2024: 19 complaints, 0 about the electrical system'242025: 27 complaints, 2 about the electrical system2026: 8 complaints, 2 about the electrical system'26Recall 13V227000 (fuel system)Recall 14V393000 (transmission)Recall 15V340000 (steering)Recall 15V812000 (fuel system)Recall 16V621000 (fuel system)Recall 20V072000 (suspension)
All complaintsAbout the electrical systemRecall (red: the electrical system)

Complaints about the 2013 Flex peaked in 2016, with 100 filed that year. No recall on file covers the electrical system, the subject of 27% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 8 so far.

6 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Suspension › Rear20V072000
Filed Feb 10, 2020211,207 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Lincoln MKT and Ford Flex and Taurus vehicles with the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. The rear suspension toe links may fracture due to stress on the rear suspension.

Risk. A fractured rear toe link will cause a sudden change in vehicle handling and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links, free of charge. Remedy parts are not currently available. Owners were notified about the recall on March 3, 2020. A second notice will be mailed when remedy parts become available, which is currently expected to be the end of September 2020. The recall began October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or Lincoln customer service at 1-800-521-4140. Ford's number for this recall is 20S04.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump16V621000
Filed Aug 25, 201677,502 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with 3.5L GTDI Ecoboost engines and 2013-2015 Ford Taurus Police Interceptor vehicles. A component within the fuel pump electric module (PEM) may overheat causing a loss of electrical power to the fuel pump.

Risk. A loss of power to the fuel pump will cause the engine to stall or prevent the vehicle from starting, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel PEM part number and replace the fuel PEM, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 1, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S31.

Fuel System, Gasoline15V812000
Filed Dec 2, 2015868 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Explorer Police Utility, Taurus, Taurus Police Interceptor, Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may crack, allowing fuel to leak.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. The recall began on December 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 13S04-S1.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System15V340000
Filed Jun 2, 2015393,623 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Ford Fusion vehicles without a 3.5L engine and Lincoln MKZ hybrid electric vehicles, 2011 Mercury Milan vehicles, 2011-2012 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with a 3.5L GTDI engine and 2013 Ford Taurus, Ford Flex, Lincoln MKS, and Lincoln MKT vehicles equipped with any available engine. The affected vehicles have electric power steering assist systems that may shut down as a result of a steering motor sensor fault.

Risk. If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will check the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC). If dealers find any loss of steering assist DTCs, the steering gear will be replaced, free of charge. If, no codes are found during the PSCM inspection, the PSCM software will be updated, free of charge. The recall began on July 21, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15S18.

Power Train › Axle Assembly › Axle Shaft14V393000
Filed Jul 2, 201483,250 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles manufactured September 2, 2010, to November 30, 2013; 2013-2014 Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS vehicles manufactured August 25, 2011, to November 30, 2013; and 2013-2014 Ford Flex and Lincoln MKT vehicles manufactured September 12, 2011, to November 30, 2013. In the affected vehicles, the halfshaft retention circlip may not have been properly installed, and as a result, the halfshaft may move outward and disengage from the linkshaft while driving and without prior warning.

Risk. If the halfshaft and linkshaft become disengaged while driving, power will no longer be transmitted to the wheels, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash. Additionally, if the parking brake is not applied before exiting the vehicle, the vehicle may roll away despite the transmission being placed in 'Park', increasing the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles to make sure that the halfshaft is properly retained. If it is not, dealers will replace the linkshaft and also replace the halfshaft if it shows evidence of spline damage, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S10.

Fuel System, Gasoline13V227000
Filed May 31, 2013390,783 vehiclesFord Motor Company

Defect. Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer, Taurus, Flex, Fusion, Police Interceptor Sedan and Police Interceptor Utility vehicles; and certain model year 2013 Lincoln MKS, MKT, and MKZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may develop a crack, allowing fuel to leak.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy. Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery module, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S04.

All 6 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

71 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2013 Flex. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 19engine 12electrical system 9transmission 7body and frame 6equipment adaptive/mobility 5brakes 3visibility 2
CSP-12M02Warranty extensionJan 14, 2013equipment

FORD/LINCOLN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. INFORMATION REGARDING EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR COVERING ACCESSORY PROTOCOL INTERFACE MODULE REGARDLESS OF MILEAGE. MODELS 2011-2013 EDGE, EXPLORER, MKX, FOCUS, ESCAPE, FLEX, FUSION, TAURUS, MKS, MKT, MKZ, F-150, F-SUPER DUTY. *PE

SSM 54601Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 24, 2026electrical system

Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with wired keyless entry keypad systems and accessory wireless keyless entry keypad systems may or may not come with a wallet card containing the master code. Unlike the integrated wired keypad, the accessory wireless keypad master code cannot be retrieved from the vehicle using a diagnostic scan tool or from the label …

SSM 48123Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 7, 2019electrical system

For Ford and Lincoln vehicles that require positive or negative battery terminal replacement, it is not necessary to replace the complete battery cable harness (14300 and 14301) for this concern. Positive battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-AA and negative battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-BA are available for this type of repair. Do not cut or shorten the battery …

SSM 47850Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 26, 2019electrical system

Some 2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a EVDC air conditioning (A/C) compressor may exhibit poor A/C performance/improper climate function and/or a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P06A0 in the powertrain control module (PCM). To support the proper diagnosis of this compressor, the EVDC control valve tester has been developed and is available from Rotunda …

SSM 46129Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 14, 2016electrical system

SOME 2013-2016 FUSION/ESCAPE/MKT/FLEX/MKS/TAURUS, 2015-2016 MKZ/MKC/EDGE AND 2016 MKX VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT VARIOUS RADIO CONCERNS INCLUDING: SPEAKER STATIC WITH KEY-OFF, NO AUDIO AFTER VEHICLE IS FIRST STARTED WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) U0184, NO VOLUME CONTROL, OR A STUCK CD WITH NO SLOT BLOCKAGE. PRIOR TO STARTING NORMAL DIAGNOSIS FOR ANY OF THESE …

SSM-45821Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 13, 2016electrical system

SIRI EYES FREE FUNCTIONAL ISSUES USING BLUETOOTH AND APPLE IOS 9.2 AND 9.2.1

TSB-14-0154Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 25, 2014electrical system

LINCOLN/FORD: WHEN ALL DOORS, ON SOME VEHICLES, ARE CLOSED, LAMP ILLUMINATES DOOR IS AJAR. MODEL 2011-13 EDGE, EXPLORER, FLEX, MKX, MKT. *PE

Showing the newest 6 of 9 bulletins about the electrical system, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2013 Ford Flex SUV AWD———★★★★★15.1%
2013 Ford Flex SUV FWD———★★★★★16.4%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine
Filed Sep 28, 2026VA

My car randomly over heated ON XXX around 3:23 pm and when I pulled over to a parking lot there was antifreeze pouring out of the bottom front passenger side. I tried to allow it to cool down so that I could safely get it to the shop .5 mile away and the vehicle started to shake and stall and the check engine light came on. I had it towed and inspected at Featherstone Auto, 14523 Richmond Hwy, Woodbridge VA 22191 where I was informed by [XXX] that this is a common issue with Ford Flex where the water pump in inside the engine and fails yet there is no recall for this issue. This is an extremely pricely cost that Ford knows is an issue yet there is no resolution on their end??? That is highly unnacceptable. I have had this car for less than a year, granted it is 13 years old. The safety of my selves and others were put at risk because my vehicle almost stopped in the middle of ongoing traffic due to a well known issue with this vehicle. Prior to this there was no engine overheating message in the 11 months that I have had this vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Electrical System
Filed Sep 24, 2026IN

UNKNOWN So we bought the car used from the dealer exactly how they received it, and it was working normally but then a few weeks or a month or two we were going somewhere and one of the headlights would go out and we'd have to turn the switch off and back on to get it to turn back on, and it was one for a few weeks but then it started turning them both off, and then it eventually got to the point that we would turn the headlights on anf the passenger side headlight wouldn't turn on anymore at all, so I went and got a bulb incase that was the issue and so we went to put the new bulb in and as we disconnected the circuit in order to get to the bulb we found that 1, water would stay inside the plastic cover causing the main board of the headlight to be fully submerged. 2, The connector to the main board was melted and fried so it is unusable. 3, with that being said that could've turned into a way worse scenario such as driving down the road and suddenly the circuit catches fire. 4, another possible outcome is while we are driving the headlights turn themselves off and while turning them back on we can't see and end up hitting a pedestrian walking or a tree on the side of the road. 5, another outcome could be, that the wiring eventually fries itself to the point that you'd have to replace every wire. 6, another safety hazard is how it is wired, the safety concerns with that and the connectors if the wrong thing happens at the weong time it could cause a full engine meltdown or e

Electrical System
Filed May 8, 2026WI

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? MULTIPLE DRIVER AID FUNCATIONS IN-OP. DRIVER DOOR LOCKS WILL NOT LOCK OR UNLOCK, DRIVER DOOR LOCK AND UNLOCK SWITCH WILL NOT OPERATE ANY LOCKS, PASSENGER DOOR MIRROR WILL NOT MOVE, SEAT MEMORY WILL NOT SAVE, REAR VIEW MIRROR WILL NOT AUTO DIM AND THERE IS NO MANUAL OPTION TO ADJUST THE MIRROR RESULTING IN IMPACTED NIGHT VISABLITY, REAR VIEW CAMERA DOES NOT DISPLAY ON SCREEN BUT WILL BEEP WHEN CLOSE TO AN OBJECT. NOT CODES OR DASH WARNINGS DISPLAYED TO STORED. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? IMPACTED VISIBLY WHILE DRIVING. UNABLE TO ADUST PASSENGER MIRROR TO SEE BLINK SPOT OR ALONG PASSENGER SIDE OF VEHICLE. UNABLE TO LOCK OR UNLOCK DRIVER DOOR, IF LOCKED ITS NOT ALLOWING ME TO ENTER THE VEHICLE AND HAVE TO ENTER VIA PASSENGER DOOR. AUTO DIM IMPACTS VISABLITY WITH DRIVING AT NIGHT. REAR BACK UP CAMERA IN-OP IS DAMGEROUS IN NUMEROUS ASPECTS. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? PROBLEM IS CONSTANT. NOT TAKING TO A DEALER DUE TO RIDICULOUS PRICES AND DIAG FEES. I'M A TECH AND TRIED TO DIAGNOSE ISSUES WITH NO ANSWERS. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? NOT YET. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? UNKNOWN. PURCHASED PRIVATE PARTY WITH ISSUES (05/0

Engine
Filed May 8, 2026WI

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? INTERNAL WATER PUMP/ TIMING CHAINS/ VVT SOLENOIDS/ CAM PHASERS/ CAM SENSORS/ RELATED SEALS How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? ENGINE FAILURE - SUDDEN STOP OF VEHICLE Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? YES, IS AWARE AND HAS ACKNOWLEDGED VIA SERVICE AND TECH BULLETINS THAT THIS IS A KNOWN AND REPEATED ISSUE. ISSUE IS KNOWN AND COMMON WITH ALL 3.7L AND 3.5L FORD ENGINES. MANUFACTURER HAS HAD PETTY AND CLASS ACTION SUITS RELATED TO THIS FAILURE AND IS NOT TAKING ANY ACTION TO REMEDY ASIDE FROM A "EXTENDED WARRANTY" FOR CERTIAN COUNTRIES BUT SAID WARRANTY DOES NOT HELP THOSE WHO PURCHASED VEHICLES USED AND HAVE NO VEHICLE HISTORY TO SEE IF THE "SERVICE INTERVALS" WERE MET LEAVING THOUSANDS OF OWNERS WITH REPAIR BILLS THAT COST AT MINIMUM OVER FOUR THOUSAND DOLLARS. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? YES. MULTIPLE TECHNICIANS ON MY VEHICLE AD WELL AS THOUSANDS OF COMPLAINTS ACROSS THE WORLD. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? NO LAMPS. ONLY POSSIBLE WAY YOU CAN EVEN TELL IS BY THE TIME ITS TOO LATE AND THE COOLANT AND OIL MIX RESULTING IN MILKY LIKE MIXTURE ON DIPSTICK OR IN OIL PAN OR ENGINE FAILURE.

Steering
Filed Apr 21, 2026140,000 milesMA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized, with the power steering fault warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure reoccurred, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering rack and steering angle and torque sensors had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and several cases were filed. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

Suspension
Filed Mar 3, 2026127,000 milesAZ

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The vehicle was taken to a dealer for a recall repair. The contact stated the dealer declined to perform the recall repair because the vehicle was unable to be started. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V072000 (SUSPENSION). The vehicle was currently at the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 127,000.

Seats1 injured
Filed Feb 25, 2026MT

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, I was driving my 2013 Ford Flex with the driver’s seat heater activated. After a period of use, I began to notice an unusual electrical burning smell inside the vehicle. There were no dashboard warning lights or system alerts. I turned the seat heater off immediately once I detected the smell. I did not initially notice an injury at that time. The following day, I experienced significant pain and discovered burns on my buttocks in the area consistent with seat contact. I sought medical evaluation three days later and was diagnosed with second- to third-degree burns. Prescription treatment was provided. The vehicle has not yet been inspected for the cause of the overheating or odor. Based on the location and pattern of injury, and the timing of the electrical smell while the heated seat was activated, the burn appears to have resulted from a malfunction of the seat heating element.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Feb 5, 2026MD

Rear view camera has failed. The screen goes black and has a “contact dealer” message.

Steering
Filed Dec 22, 2025FL

While driving, the power steering warning light illuminated and steering assist was lost. The steering became extremely hard, especially at low speeds. The vehicle makes grinding/whining noises when turning, and the car vibrates while in Drive. This creates a serious safety concern, especially during turns and parking maneuvers. Issue appears to be electric power steering (EPAS) failure.

Steering
Filed Dec 2, 2025CA

Power steering. While I was driving in my neighborhood the power steering went out and I could not make a turn. It locked up while driving. I could have got into a head on collision/accident becasue the road turns. Yes, I reported it to Ford and they told me my flex did not have a recall despite the ford website stating that some 2013 ford flex are affected. The description of 15s18 sterring recall matches my same issue and it poses a serious safety hazard. Yes, i took it to a mechanic at an auto shop and her is telling me that he can't fix recalls. At the time of the accident, i got No pre warning just the message that states: "Steering Lock Malfunction Service Now: The steering lock system has detected a condition that requires service." This happened on or around 11/23/25. I am requesting that Ford pay for my power steering to be fixed.

Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 7, 2025MI

Backup Camera not working

Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 6, 2025MI

THE REAR- VIEW BACK UP CAMERA DOES NOT OPERATE PROPERLY WHEN VEHICLE IS PUT IN REVERSE. IT WORKS INTEMITTEDLY. SOMETIMES IMAGE IS BLACK, SOMETIMES UPSIDE DOWN, SOMETIME, WORKS PROPERLY, SOMETIME IMAGE FREEZES, AND SOMETIMES SHOWS ERROR CAMERA NOT WORKING CONTACT DEALERSHIP. REDUCES THE THE ABILITY TO SEE WHAT IS BEHIND THE VEHICLE WHEN BACKIN UP AND INCREASES THE RISK OF CRASH.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 22, 2025MI

Rear view camera on my 2013 Ford Flex failing in same manner as other models recalled by Ford for failed rear view cameras. Initial failure was a few years ago after original mfr warranty period, however it is my understanding that the recalled models have extended warranty to 15 years. As such, since this is the same type of component, it is clear that my 2013 flex should also be recalled and covered through the 2028 calendar year. Undoubtedly, the root cause of this failure is inherent in the design and manufacture of all generations of backup cameras deployed by Ford and not limited to certain manufacturing dates. NHTSA should not allow itself to be misled by Ford into a narrower scope of recall.

Steering
Filed Oct 7, 2025131,785 milesCA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact recently purchased the vehicle. When the vehicle was purchased, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle had a failure with the steering wheel. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was difficult to maneuver. The message "Service Advancetrac" was displayed on the instrument panel, and an unknown message about the steering was displayed. In addition, while in reverse(R), the contact used force to turn the steering wheel. Most recently, the contact stated that when the turn signal lever was activated, the turn signal lever failed to stay down as intended. The contact had to hold the turn signal lever down to signal a right or left turn. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact stated that the dealer related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (STEERING). However, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 131,785.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 27, 2025NJ

Rear camera stopped working years ago. Will only work briefly after collision warning alert goes off which goes off randomly even when there are no other vehicles in the area

Steering
Filed Sep 9, 2025213,300 milesKS

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the "Power Steering Assist Fault" and "Service Advancetrac" messages were displayed. The contact stated that the power steering assist had failed to operate as needed and excessive force was needed to steer the vehicle. The contact also stated that the turn signals failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but the mechanic was not equipped with the tools to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 213,300.

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 5, 2025MN

I Repaired 1 door ajar DSF under warranty Had to pay for 2 doors PSF & PSR due to out of warranty Now there’s a recall but I’m over 250,000 miles ,so Ford refuses to to cover the door handle sensor recall

Steering
Filed Aug 26, 2025125,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while attempting to reverse, the vehicle lost power steering functionality, and the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure occurred two to three times per week. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (STEERING); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 125,000.

Steering
Filed Aug 11, 2025MI

The steering failed while driving. Steering assist was shut down and almost impossible to turn the wheel.

Steering
Filed Jul 27, 2025TN

MY 2013 FORD FLEX ONLY HAS 109,600 MILES ON IT. THE CAR IS CURRENTLY AT THE MECHANIC SHOP. THE PROBLEM I AM HAVING IS WITH THE POWER STEERING ASSIST. SEVERAL TIMES IN THE LAST THREE WEEKS, WHEN I AM REVERSING OUT OF A PARKING SPOT SUDDENLY THE POWER ASSIST WARNING COMES ON AND THE CAR IS UNCONTROLLABLE. I HAVE HAD TO TOW IT TWICE. I AM NOT STRONG ENOUGH TO MANEUVER THE CAR WHEN IT LOCKS UP LIKE THAT. THERE WAS NO OTHER WARNING UNTIL I MADE THE ATTEMPT TO BACK UP THEN A WARNING MESSAGE CAME ON. THE MECHANIC WAS NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM . HE MADE SOME OTHER REPAIRS TO THE WHEEL HUB BEARINGS, SO WHEN I PICKED UP MY CAR AND IT DROVE FINE FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS, I THOUGHT IT WAS FIXED. BUT IT FROZE UP AGAIN UNDER THE SAME CONDITIONS--TRYING TO BACK OUT OF A PARKING SPOT. I TOOK IT BACK TO THE MECHANIC AND ONCE AGAIN THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM, BUT HE SAID THERE WAS A RECORD OF THE WARNINGS IN THE SYSTEM. MY SAFETY AS WELL AS THE SAFETY OF OTHER DRIVERS IS AT RISK, BECAUSE IF THIS GOES OUT WHILE IN TRANSIT, I WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CONTROL THE CAR. I ENJOY MY FLEX, BUT THE REPAIRS HAVE BEEN SO MUCH LATELY. ONE OF THE RECENT REPAIRS WAS THE EMERGENCY BRAKE COSTING 1,200. THE WHEEL HUB BEARINGS WERE 1,400 AND NOW THIS POWER STEERING ASSIST REPAIR IS ESTIMATED TO BE QUITE PRICEY. I AM PARTIALLY HANDICAPPED, RETIRED AND LIVING ON A VERY LIMITED INCOME. THESE EXPENSES ARE OUTRAGEOUS FOR SUCH A NICE CAR WITH SUCH LOW MILEAGE. DOES THIS MODEL HAVE ISSUES? I KEEP UP TH

Steering
Filed Jul 20, 2025IL

My electric power steering went out while driving. Everywhere online says the 2013 flex has a recall for this but when I enter my vin it says no recall. There has been several claims of this on my model year and accidents and dangers reported. I want to know my my vehicle isn’t showing up for the recall when it’s never been replaced by ford so it should be replaced by Ford.

Steering
Filed Jul 16, 2025CA

Power Steering Assist Default. Power steering has intermittently gone out several times and when the vehicle is powered off and back on it would worked properly. July 15, 2025 121,471 miles it went out and will not reset. Fortunately, this happened at the car wash and not while driving. It could have been a very dangerous situation while driving. Had it towed home. I have reported to Ford Case# CXH-04975179 July 16, 2025 and was told to take it to the dealer for evaluation and the dealer may assist $ with the repair. The (Power Steering Assist Fault) appeared on the dash. This has happened intermittently over the past several months and gone away but not it will not go away and the vehicle in inoperable.

Steering
Filed Jul 7, 2025MI

I went to drop my children off at school, backed out of the driveway fine everything was good. I went to turn the corner and my steering went really, really stiff. Thankfully I only live 2 blocks from the school and wasn't going over 15 mph. If I had been I'm scared of what could have happened.

Steering
Filed Jun 30, 2025150,000 milesWA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the message “Power Steering Failure” was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact also stated that a handheld diagnostic reader retrieved DTC: U3000, 49-48, U300096C8, and BID2368-48. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 19, 2025MI

Back-up camera shows blank screen, wiggle lines throughout, states to contact dealer for service, or shows up upside down and backwards. I took my vehicle to the Bill Brown Ford dealership 04Sep18. I paid $112 to be told camera was failing and was quoted a minimum of $650 to replace. I declined as the vehicle was only 5 years old and was hoping for a recall. I now see many newer vehicles were just recalled for the same issue.

Steering
Filed Jun 18, 2025142,000 milesMA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was drifting in different directions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a failed rack and pinion. The contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.

Steering
Filed Jun 8, 2025IL

There is a recall on models in this year but not the one I currently have. While driving on the highway my advancetrac warning lit up, the roads where dry and the was nothing to indicate why this was happening. So, I began to continue to drive on the highway and my steering wheel began to feel "jiggly". I kept two hands on the wheel the remaining drive and stayed within the min driving limit as any bump I experienced allowed for the car to be redireced even with two hands on the wheel. Once I made it off the highway to my destination I received three warning messages one system fault, one power steering service and one advancetrac. At this point when turning the car off and back on again the steering wheel became hard to turn. The red power steering message popped up again along with the advancetrac message. Because this issue happened while the car was in motion I find it hard to believe that this model is not apart of the recall. Now I have to foot the bill along with feeling like at any moment I could have crashed and lost my life during my time driving on the highway. My only hope for writing this is to ensure another look at the 2013 models that were not included in this recall so that other lives can be saved. I would not have a problem allowing this issue to be inspected. My safety and those along the highway were in danger because I could have lost control of the vehicle. The problem still remains, I have set an appointment for this issue. This happened 6/5/25. The wa

Electrical System
Filed May 29, 2025CA

My back up camera show upside down or sometimes it shows a black screen. People have a habit of walking behind me when I’m backing up and I can’t see them. The warning beep sounds but I can’t tell if it a car or person behind me. When it first happen months ago I tried resetting camera, it didn’t work. Not sure if my extended warranty covers this.

Engine
Filed Apr 23, 2025100,050 milesMS

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Focus. The contact stated that on several occasions while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,050.

Steering
Filed Mar 31, 2025131,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 55 MPH, there was a beeping sound coming from the vehicle with the messages "Electronic Power Steering Assist failure", "Service Advance-trac", and "Power steering assist fault" displayed. Additionally, the traction control warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that simultaneously the steering wheel became extremely firm. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the electronic rack and pinion steering needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 131,000.

Steering
Filed Feb 26, 2025155,077 milesCA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated while driving and making turns, the steering wheel was sticking and required to be turned in the opposite direction and back to the intended direction for the vehicle to respond as needed. Additionally, the contact stated that the steering wheel failed to return to center after making a turn. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Big Brand Tire and Service, where the contact was informed that the failure might be related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering). The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact was referred to the manufacturer for assistance. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 155,077.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 8, 2025FL

The back up/ rear camera failed on this vehicle. The sudden failure of this caused me to panic as I could no longer see directly behind my vehicle.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 30, 2025TX

Backup camera will not work or send image inverted

Electrical System
Filed Jan 30, 2025CA

The backup camera went out, but first it went upside down. Not inverted, just upside down. It's definitely a safety issue as I can't see fully behind me. I've seen the later models have the same issue and recall for them but not the older models with the same issue.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jan 7, 2025GA

Back up camera has failed.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Dec 23, 2024100,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, there was an abnormal gasoline odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated that the odor of gasoline was constant. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact had researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V812000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Steering
Filed Nov 12, 2024125,000 milesWA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, he became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly, requiring increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The traction control warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the power steering control module. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 125,000.

Steering
Filed Oct 21, 2024163,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while driving at unknown speeds, after coming to a stop and then attempting to switch lanes, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The power steering assist message was displayed. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle started operating as designed. The contact called an independent mechanic and was informed about NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering). The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 163,000.

Steering
Filed Oct 12, 2024AL

There is a power steering assist fault. Mine failed. This is a known issue That was recalled for the model year of my car, but my car apparently falls outside of the recall.

Steering
Filed Oct 2, 2024165,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated while driving at approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. The "Power Steering Assist Fault" message was displayed on the instrument panel. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the power steering control module needed to be replaced. The contact researched and was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.

Steering
Filed Sep 5, 2024CA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated while driving at highway speeds, the front end of the vehicle was shaking and vibrating, and the steering wheel was difficult to turn in either direction. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall on the VIN. There was no assistance provided. The failure mileage was unknown.

Steering
Filed Aug 17, 2024AK

While driving down the highway the power steering system failed without any indication lights. Upon slowing down I noticed the steering was stiffer than usual. After pulling into a parking lot and restarting the car it showed a power steering failure and traction control failure.

Wheels › Rim
Filed Jun 21, 2024120,000 milesMD

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that the passenger’s side rear wheel was corroded and leaking air. The TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the wheel needed to be replaced. The wheel was not replaced, and the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

Steering
Filed Jun 17, 2024VA

The contact's client owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while her and her client were driving at approximately 60 MPH, the steering wheel became stiff, and the vehicle failed to steer as intended. The vehicle was taken to a parking lot and turned off. The vehicle was restarted after a while and a “Service Power Steering Now” message displayed, and the steering wheel seized and would not turn as needed. The vehicle was towed to a dealer but was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Power TrainCrash2 injured
Filed Jun 13, 2024CA

Steering locked up lower control arm snapped at the ball joint where it's connected to cv axel. Sent my car into the rails and nearly.killed me and my passenger.

Steering
Filed May 16, 202465,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the power steering assist fault warning light illuminated. In addition, the vehicle was difficult to steer. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed steering control module failure. The contact stated that the steering control module needed to be replaced. The contact provided diagnostic codes: U3000'49-48 and U3000'96-C8. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000. The contact stated there was a recall, but his vehicle does not have this recall associated with the VIN.

Steering
Filed May 15, 2024OR

After starting the vehicle, warning on dash stating "power steering assist fault" appeared. Steering wheel was extremely difficult to operate, to the point that maneuvers requiring sudden, sharp inputs would not have been possible. Had this occurred while driving, it could have resulted in an accident. No one has been informed of this issue yet.

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 11, 2024MI

Repeated problems with door latch system in 2013 Ford Flex. Door is interpreted as being ajar, despite being closed. Two warning lights/messages to this effect persist, interior lights will not turn off (which drains the battery), doors will not automatically lock while driving in this condition and as I understand it, if an accident occurred, the airbags would NOT deploy due to the doors not being 'locked'. This is a serious safety issue and causes continual drain on the battery if left in this condition. The only way to sometimes get it to recognize the door being shut is to repeatedly close the door, often having to slam the door shut; this can take up to 15 attempts. Driver's door has been cycled & subsequently replaced six months later. We are taking it in now for a likely 2nd replacement on this door alone. The rear right passenger door & front passenger door have each been replaced as well. The first two repairs/replacement on the driver's door were under warranty, the remaining 2 replacements (and upcoming additional replacement) have been and will be at our own cost. This same door latch system has been recalled on three different occasions on other Ford models, yet not on the Flex. There should be a recall on this 2013 Ford Flex and we should get refunds for our out-of-pocket costs for this repeated and known problem.

Steering
Filed Mar 27, 202472,220 milesVA

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle, the messaged "Power Steering" was displayed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who determined that the power steering module and steering rack were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 72,220.

Steering
Filed Feb 15, 202489,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Flex. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle intermittently experienced a loss of power steering assist. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V340000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.

Complaints 1-50 of 580, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2013
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
2019260400Above average
201869300Routine
201742400Routine
2016102300Routine
2015116420Routine
2014249420Above average
2013 — this page580610Above average
201264210Routine
2011144211Fatalities reported
2010139120Routine
2009181120Routine

Compare every Flex year →

2013 Ford Flex: questions buyers ask

Is the 2013 Ford Flex a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Flex years to avoid: owners filed 580 complaints, 4.2 times as many as a typical Flex year. The most common complaint is about the electrical system (27%).

What is the most common problem with the 2013 Ford Flex?

The electrical system: 159 of the 580 complaints (27%) are about it. Owners most often say it sets off warning lights on the dash (13%), drains the battery or stops charging (4%) and stalls (4%). The typical report comes at 55,283 miles.

How many recalls does the 2013 Ford Flex have?

6 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Feb 10, 2020. The largest, 15V340000, covered 393,623 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2013 Ford Flex problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 65,000 miles. For the electrical system the midpoint is 55,283 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 2013 Ford Flex?

The manufacturer filed 71 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (12), the electrical system (9) and the transmission (7). They include a warranty extension, CSP-12M02, filed Jan 14, 2013. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Feb 10, 2020. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.