Yes. The Ford Flex uses hydraulic power steering that relies on dedicated power steering fluid rather than a fully electric system.
In practice, the exact specification can vary by year and engine; consult the owner’s manual or a Ford dealer for your VIN to confirm the correct fluid type and capacity.
Overview of the power steering system in the Flex
The Ford Flex employs a hydraulic power steering system driven by a belt-connected pump. This means it uses a fluid designed for the power steering circuit, rather than relying on a purely electric steering assist. Fluid quality and level are important for smooth steering, quiet operation, and long pump life.
What fluid does it require?
Most Ford Flex models use an automatic transmission fluid (ATF) that functions as the power steering fluid. Ford commonly references Dexron VI ATF as a standard option, though some early-year builds may specify Dexron II/III or a Ford-branded Power Steering Fluid. Because specifications can vary by year and VIN, always confirm the exact fluid type and capacity for your vehicle before topping up.
Fluid options and year guidance:
- Dexron VI ATF — commonly recommended for many hydraulic Ford steering systems on Flex models built in the 2011–2019 window.
- Dexron II/III ATF — may be specified on some early 2009–2010 Flex models or specific configurations; verify via VIN or the owner’s manual.
- Motorcraft Power Steering Fluid — Ford-branded option sometimes listed as compatible; in practice it is typically Dexron-based ATF and should be verified against the manual.
If in doubt, rely on the owner’s manual or a Ford service professional to confirm the exact specification for your model year. Using the wrong fluid can cause steering noises, leaks, or pump wear.
Checking and maintaining the power steering system
Regular checks help prevent steering problems and possible damage. Here is how to check and top up safely:
- Park on level ground, turn off the engine, and let the vehicle sit for a moment to settle.
- Open the hood and locate the power steering reservoir; the cap is usually labeled with a steering wheel icon.
- Slowly remove the cap and check the fluid level against the marked range on the dipstick or sight window.
- If the level is low, add the recommended PS fluid (ATF Dexron VI or the Ford-specified fluid) in small increments, and recheck after each addition. Do not overfill.
- With the engine off, turn the steering wheel from lock to lock a few times to circulate the fluid, then recheck with the engine running and wheels straight.
- Look for leaks around hoses, the rack and pinion, and the reservoir. If you see seepage or pooling fluid, have the system inspected and repaired promptly.
Regular maintenance and using the correct fluid type help keep the power steering system quiet and effective. If you’re unsure about the exact fluid for your year, consult the owner’s manual or a Ford service technician.
Common issues and symptoms
Power steering problems can manifest in several ways. Here are common symptoms and what they often indicate:
- Whining, groaning, or squealing noises when turning may point to low fluid or worn pump bearings.
- Hard steering or resistance at low speeds can signal fluid loss, air in the system, or pump/rack wear.
- Fluid leaks under the vehicle, especially around hoses or the rack, require immediate inspection.
- Foamy or burnt-smelling fluid suggests contamination or degraded fluid and prompts a flush or service.
Address these issues promptly to prevent larger steering or safety problems.
Year-by-year considerations
While the general approach remains the same, a few model-year caveats can apply. Always verify with your VIN-specific service information:
- 2009–2010: Some manuals may reference older ATF types like Dexron II/III for certain configurations.
- 2011–2019: Dexron VI ATF is commonly acceptable for hydraulic PS systems; Ford documentation often lists Dexron VI or an equivalent PSF-based ATF.
Always confirm using the vehicle’s official service information to avoid mis-specification.
Summary
The Ford Flex uses a hydraulic power steering system that requires a dedicated fluid, typically an ATF-based fluid such as Dexron VI, though some early-year models may specify Dexron II/III or Ford-branded Power Steering Fluid. Verify the exact specification for your model year and VIN via the owner’s manual or a Ford service center. Regularly checking fluid level, avoiding overfill, and inspecting for leaks helps maintain steering performance and safety.