The 2014 Ford Flex is a midsize SUV known for its roomy interior and high safety ratings. Yet, like all vehicles, it’s not without its potential faults. Over the years, the 2014 Ford Flex has seen a few recalls. If you own one, you’ll want to know what these are so you can take appropriate action.
Axle Shaft
NHTSA Recall ID: 14V393000
In July of 2014, Ford issued a recall for the 2013–2014 Ford Flex. According to the recall, some of the vehicles had a problem with the halfshaft retention circlip. Poor installation allowed the halfshaft to move outward. This then caused it to disengage from the linkshaft.
Because this defect gives no warning, it is quite dangerous. When the linkshaft and halfshaft disengage, power stops flowing to the wheels. It also allows the car to roll when placed in “Park,” which creates another injury risk. Owners of affected vehicles need to bring them to the dealership for an inspection to find out if the linkshaft and halfshaft need replacement. This was one of the first recalls for the Ford Flex.
Fuel Pump
NHTSA Recall ID: 16V621000
n August of 2016, Ford sent out a recall for Ford Flex vehicles from model years 2013 through 2015. According to the recall, certain engines had a faulty component within the pump electric module. This component can overheat and cause a loss of electrical power flowing to the fuel pump.
Without that power, the vehicle can stall. If this happens at startup, it will not start properly. If it happens while driving, the vehicle is at high risk for a crash. Owners of an affected vehicle can get a new fuel pump electric module installed at the dealership.
Rear Suspension
NHTSA Recall ID: 20V072000
In February of 2020, Ford issued a recall for 2013–2018 Ford Flex vehicles that had the Police Interceptor or SHO Performance Pack. In these models, the rear suspension toe links have a high risk of fracturing because of stress placed on the rear suspension. This can cause the vehicle’s handling to change suddenly, and drivers can lose control of the vehicle and crash. Replacement of the rear suspension toe links was the fix for the problem, starting in the summer of 2020.
Seats
NHTSA Recall ID: 14V710000
Another early recall, this one launched in November of 2014. The recall indicates that affected vehicles had a lowered clearance between the seat frame and seat track assembly. This means the Occupant Classification System may not accurately read the weight of the passenger front air bag. If the weight reads too light, it may turn off the air bag when an adult is sitting in the seat, and it should be on. Because this means the vehicle doesn’t comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard for Occupant Crash Protection, the company had to recall it.
The solution for this recall is simple. With a trip to the dealer, owners can have the gap between the frame and track widened and the OCS re-calibrated to remove the problem.
Next Steps to Take
If you have a 2014 Ford Flex that was under one of these recalls, and you registered the vehicle properly, you will get a notification of the recall. Follow the instructions on the notification to have the problem fixed. If you suspect that you have a recalled vehicle, but don’t get a notivation, take it to your local Ford dealer for evaluation. The dealership will tell you if it was recalled and provide the necessary repair. Remember: A vehicle with an existing recall is a danger on the road. Take action quickly to repair the problem and ensure you can continue to enjoy driving your Ford Flex safely.
