What 221 owners told NHTSA about the 2019 Ford Flex

2019 Flex , Odometer reading 58,190. Coolant seen on lower part of engine along with low coolant level. Took to dealership who confirmed the water pump failed and was leaking. We were lucky it was caught early before coolant leaked into the engine, causing the engine to stop while driving and permanently damage engine. There are no warnings for this when it happens (coolant leaking into engine),we were just fortunate to notice low coolant. Because there are no coolant warnings, it can lead to catastrophic engine damage while operating vehicle.There are no guarantees that this will not happen again, only parts are under two year warranty. After research, Ford knew this was an issue with this engine when we bought it, not only on the Flex but same engine on other models, yet continued to sell them. Cost $3,391.71 to repair. Because it is over 5 year warranty no help offered, yet is under 60K miles. There are other complaints regarding this same issue yet Ford continues to not acknowledge faulty design of engine. 2) still waiting for rrecall/repair of backup camera, 3) also waiting-recall/repair for plastic pillar covers. Both of these are under a recall for over a year. NHTSA has other complaints of this from consumers.

NHTSA ODI 11741616

In October of 2025 the vehicle began to make engine noises. Within a day the vehicle stalled and shut down completely. I had my mechanic examine the car and they advise coolant had leaked into the engine cause damage. The engine had to be replaced. No warranty coverage and 4k later.

NHTSA ODI 11735238

I am submitting a formal complaint regarding multiple premature and potentially safety-related failures on my 2019 Ford Flex, purchased new on 11/25/2019. These include: ️ 1. Rear Suspension / Rear Toe Link Concern Although my vehicle is not included in Ford’s rear toe link recall (20S62), it is experiencing the same symptoms: Rear-end instability and drifting Uneven or premature rear tire wear Clunking or loose feeling from the rear suspension I have an appointment scheduled for August 6, 2025 to inspect the rear toe bar links, as I suspect they are defective or misaligned — the exact condition the recall addresses. 2. Water Pump Failure The engine water pump failed before 100,000 miles, requiring a full replacement. This is a known issue in several Ford engines, and repair was required out-of-pocket despite the vehicle being well maintained. 3. Exterior Trim Detachment Multiple exterior trim pieces detached from the vehicle while driving, posing a road hazard to myself and others. These parts did not appear to be securely fastened from the factory. 4. Premature Tire Wear Rear tires wore out far earlier than expected — possibly linked to suspension or alignment issues, including the toe link concerns mentioned above. 5. Ongoing Electrical Failures Since August 2022, I have had to return to the dealership multiple times for electrical system issues: 8/3/2022 11/2/2022 2/14/2024 These included battery/electrical drain issues and warning system malfunctions, which affect the vehicle’s reliability and safety. These problems began less than 3 years after purchasing the car new. These issues raise serious concerns about the overall build quality and long-term safety of the 2019 Ford Flex. I am concerned that my vehicle may have: Been excluded from critical recalls, despite showing identical failure patterns Undergone multiple early mechanical and electrical repairs Developed safety-related defects that compromise both driver & public safety.

NHTSA ODI 11676254

Coolant Intrusion - Water pump leaked inside the engine, causing engine failure. The engine has to be replaced. This has been a known problem with this model and has been fixed/covered by the warranty.

NHTSA ODI 11668622

The water pump and timing cover gaskets are faulty. The water pump is internal and causes major engine malfunction when it breaks.

NHTSA ODI 11657792