Ford C-max energi problems
The Ford C-Max (stylized as Ford C-MAX and previously called the Ford Focus C-Max) is a car produced by the Ford Motor Company from 2003 to 2019. It has a five-door compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) design. The Ford Grand C-Max has a longer wheelbase.
Ford introduced the C-Max in the United States as its first hybrid-only line of vehicles, which includes the C-Max Hybrid, released in September 2012, and the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid, launched in October 2012. Although the C-Max was initially available only in Europe, the first generation was partially available in New Zealand.
First generation (2003)
The Ford Focus C-Max is preceded by the eponymous show car, which was designed by Daniel Paulin and unveiled at the 2002 Paris Motor Show.
C-Max Mk I was the first product to use the Ford C1 platform, also used by the Ford Focus Mk II and the compact MPV Premacy/Mazda5. Its internal code name is C214.
It seats five passengers and has a large amount of cargo space, which can be increased by folding the rear seats flat. Some models feature diagonally sliding outer rear seats. It also shares the control blade independent rear suspension from the Focus.
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Ford C-max energi model years
Common Ford C-max energi problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Ford C-Max Energi, several common problems have been reported:
- Transmission Failure: Some owners have reported transmission failures in the 2013 C-Max Energi, which can result in drivability issues and potentially costly repairs.
- Charging Problems: Complaints have been made about the 2014 C-Max Energi not keeping a charge, indicating potential issues with the charging system or battery.
- Electrical Issues: The Ford C-Max Hybrid, which shares similarities with the Energi model, has been noted for electrical problems, suggesting a broader concern with the electrical systems in these vehicles.
- MyFord Touch System: Consumers have raised complaints about the MyFord Touch infotainment system being confusing and difficult to operate, impacting the overall user experience of the vehicle.
- Stalling: Some drivers have experienced stalling issues with the Ford C-Max Energi, which can pose safety risks and lead to inconvenience on the road.
These reported problems highlight a range of issues that Ford C-Max Energi owners have faced, from electrical and battery-related concerns to transmission and operational issues. Addressing these issues promptly and through authorized dealerships is crucial to ensure the safety and reliability of these vehicles.
How long does a Ford C-Max Energi battery last?
The make and model of your hybrid vehicle can affect its battery's life, but as a general rule the hybrid battery in Ford vehicles is warrantied to last roughly 8 years or to 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions.
Is there any problem with the Ford C-Max?
The C-Max Mk2 also has problems that include a loose door frame weather strip, leaky manual transmissions, coolant pump leaks, and a failure of the keyless entry system. However, don't worry, because here we explain what the issues involve and how the DIY mechanic can save large sums of money by repairing them at home.
How reliable is the Ford C-Max Hybrid?
The severity and frequency of repairs are both much lower than other vehicles, so the C-Max is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.
What is the recall on the Ford C-Max transmission?
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. The bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may degrade or detach.
Recalls Ford C-max energi
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Ford C-max energi.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford C-max energi 2013
- Report Received Date: 2013-10-17
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Focus Electric vehicles and 2013 C-Max vehicles equipped with the Intelligent Access Push Button Start System. In the affected vehicles, there is no audible chime when the vehicle is operational and the driver's door is opened. Thus, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
- Consequence: Without an audible door chime, a vehicle owner may open the door and exit the vehicle without being reminded that the vehicle is still operational, leaving the vehicle susceptible to theft.
- Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the door chime, free of charge. The recall began on October 30, 2013. Owners may contact the Ford customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall number is 13C07.
Latest negative Ford C-max energi car reviews
Latest positive Ford C-max energi car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2017
This isn't actually a Volt, as a Volt has a larger battery that allows us to go all summer on about 5 gallons of gas. However, the Energi has a smaller HV battery, which is perfectly fine. The idea is that you can drive an Energi on electric about 70% of the time. It's a great road car, with a very quiet engine and cabin on the highway, and plenty of headroom. I haven't had any problems with it yet, and it's a nice, tight car. I would definitely buy it again!
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Vehicle year: 2017
Hi there! I wanted to let you know that we have a great deal on our Second C max right now. You'll love the savings!
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Vehicle year: 2015
I've been wondering for the past year why Ford doesn't market the C-Max Energi (both the regular hybrid and the plug-in) against the popular subcompact SUVs. The C-Max is essentially the same size, cost-competitive (with continuous incentives), and better in so many ways - it's quieter, has much better passing/merging power, better mileage, higher-quality interior, better visibility, and more. My spouse has the Subaru XV Crosstrek, which is a nice car, but my C-Max Energi is better in almost every respect, even though I paid thousands less (after tax credit and incentives) than my spouse paid. The Subaru has essentially no advantages over the C-Max, even though it costs more and has all-wheel drive (which I don't care about) and higher ground clearance. I believe that marketing the C-Max only as a Prius alternative (when they market it at all) has severely hurt its sales, since the C-Max will clearly not win purely on MPG. It's such a better car in every other way that it's a shame they don't do more to broaden its appeal. The C-Max could fit into a few different categories, not just as a hatchback/wagon. As someone who years ago swore I would NEVER own another Ford, I've been very pleased with my C-Max Energi. Also, I would like to say that the Sync/MyFord Touch system gets a bad rap.I've driven many different brands with their proprietary systems and I must say that Ford's system is just fine. It's certainly no worse than any of the others I've used, and because there are redundant ways to do everything, if you don't like one way to do something, you have other options. I understand that the early versions of Ford's system had issues, but the grudge in the auto press seems entirely unwarranted based on my experience. I hope Ford finds a way to keep this car going because it's a joy to drive and own. When I started car-shopping, I was not interested in a hybrid, but I bought it because of everything else it offered (and at a lower price) than the cars I was shopping it against. I likely would not have considered it without all of the incentives it had, but I have been very happy I landed on this car.
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Vehicle year: 2013
Hi there! While it may not be the flashiest car out there, the C-Max Energi has a lot going for it. It's spacious, quiet, comfortable, and gets amazing MPGe. In fact, I've only used about $45 in gas over 21,000 miles! Plus, having a level 2 charger makes life so much easier. Since I don't have a long commute, I mostly drive within the electric-only range of about 30 miles. The only downside is that the batteries take up some cargo space. Personally, I think FORD could make a few improvements to make this car even better. For example, they could increase the battery size to provide a 100+ mile electric range, upgrade the onboard charger to speed up charging, and integrate the battery more efficiently to free up some cargo room. Even if this means reducing the gas tank size, I'd be okay with it. With these changes, the C-Max Energi could become a world-class leader in my opinion!
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Vehicle year: 2014
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your car with 2000 miles on it! It sounds like there are a lot of great features that you're really enjoying, like the supportive and comfortable seats, nimble and quick driving, and the fun of driving on country roads. It's also great to hear that you're finding it comfortable for long road trips and that the all-electric mode is responsive and not sluggish at all. With a combined MPG of 51, it sounds like you're getting great mileage even without trying too hard. The only downside you mentioned is the back storage not being flat when the back seats are down, but overall it sounds like you're really happy with your car!
Are you having problems with your Ford C-max energi?
Brendon Flatley 2025-04-23
Vehicle year: 2013
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with the CMax energi. While I've had some issues with the transmission making a 'whiring' sound during deceleration at around 160,000 miles, I've been fortunate to have only needed to replace the 12V 'starting battery' for $140. I've driven well over 150K miles and have only had to rotate tires and change fluids. I typically drive 200 miles per day on Southern California freeways commuting to various construction sites, and I often drive into Los Angeles, the deserts and mountains for work. Despite the high mileage, the car has been very comfortable at freeway speeds, where I drive with the flow of traffic, often 80 mph. I'm very happy with my 42+ mpg, especially considering the distances between charges. While there may be other options out there, I've found this car to be a great value overall. Thanks for listening!
Destin Baumbach 2025-04-13
Vehicle year: 2017
We signed the papers to lease this car on Saturday, August 13, 2016. The odometer read 62 miles. After familiarizing ourselves with the car, we were excited to hit the road! However, the car wouldn't start. No one knew what to do, but eventually, they got it going. The salesman explained that they reset the code. We drove home with a Ford employee following us, just in case. Thankfully, we made it home without any issues. On Wednesday, August 17th, the car wouldn't start again. This time, the odometer read 122 miles. I had the car towed to the nearest dealership and left it there. The service manager called and informed me that the 'electronic control module for hybrid' needed replacing, but unfortunately, the part was on back order. Does this mean that there is a run on this part? I was disappointed because I bought this car to replace my 14-year-old car, hoping for a reliable vehicle. I'd like to keep in touch with Ray Brisbine of CA, who seems to have had the same experience. I wonder if his problems were resolved. After two weeks, we finally got the car back from the dealer service. The service manager told us that Ford engineers called him and said the car did not need a new control module, but rather the computer needed re-programming. So, Ford engineers talked the dealer tech people through a complete re-programming of my c-max energi. We've had it back for four days now, and it is running well. We hope that this is 'the fix'. The service manager said that they have gotten a recall for all c-max energi cars, probably for this reprogramming. We still have a minor problem: holding the lock sensor area for a second does not work to lock the doors. However, unlocking does work. Despite these issues, we found the Ford dealership to be very helpful during this period, even giving us a lender car to keep for the duration of the repair.
Geovanni Hansen 2025-04-05
Vehicle year: 2014
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with the CMax energi. While I've had some issues with the transmission making a 'whiring' sound during deceleration at around 160,000 miles, I've been fortunate to have only needed to replace the 12V 'starting battery' for $140. I've driven well over 150K miles and have only had to rotate tires and change fluids. I typically drive 200 miles per day on Southern California freeways commuting to various construction sites, and I often drive into Los Angeles, the deserts and mountains for work. Despite the high mileage, the car has been very comfortable at freeway speeds, where I drive with the flow of traffic, often 80 mph. I'm very happy with my 42+ mpg, especially considering the distances between charges. While there may be other options out there, I've found this car to be a great value overall. Thanks for listening!
Gabe Goldner 2025-03-13
Vehicle year: 2014
Hi there! I bought this car 2 months ago and have been driving it to and from work mostly. I really like the concept of a plugin hatchback. The car handles fairly well and the motors work great. However, I have to admit that the electronics still need some work. The charging software, navigation, and voice recognition are not up to par yet and have made the experience less enjoyable for me.
Hazel Waelchi 2025-02-22
Vehicle year: 2013
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with the C-Max Energi. I initially thought I could drive it just a few miles per day, plug it in at night, and avoid gas stations altogether. However, I ran into a bit of an issue. It turns out that while the lithium ion battery charges, the 12 volt battery that initially cranks the engine doesn't charge at the same time. As a result, if you don't drive extended miles every few days or so, the 12 volt battery will gradually be drained. I learned this the hard way when my battery died twice. According to my local dealer, this is because the Energi doesn't have an alternator. Just something to keep in mind! Let me know if you have any questions.