4 out of 5 stars (for models tested during this period, actual ratings vary by year)
Active Features
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags for all three rows
Seatbelts:
3-point safety belts with pretensioners, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Available Systems:
Ford SYNC infotainment system (voice-activated communication and entertainment)
Display:
Touchscreen displays (sizes varied by trim and option packages)
Driver Assistance
Features:
Available rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control (depending on year and trim)
Connectivity
Ports:
USB, Auxiliary input jacks
Bluetooth:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual (typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil)
Tire Rotation:
Refer to manual (typically every 5,000-7,500 miles)
Cabin Air Filter:
Refer to manual (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles)
Engine Coolant Flush:
Refer to manual (e.g., 100,000 miles for initial, then every 50,000 miles)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type 3.5L:
SAE 5W-20 (synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.5L:
Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercon LV (or equivalent meeting Ford specification)
Engine Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (VC-3D) or equivalent (typically a yellow color, long-life coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Coolant leaks from the degas bottle or intake manifold gaskets
Common Issue 2:
Transmission shudder or harsh shifting (often related to fluid changes or valve body issues)
Common Issue 3:
Power steering fluid leaks (particularly from hoses or the pump)
Common Issue 4:
Water pump failure (premature wear on some units)
Common Issue 5:
CVT belt wear (on models equipped with CVT, if applicable - *Note: Flex used traditional automatics, this is a common misconception or applies to other Ford models*)