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: 2015
Hello! Thank you for sharing your experience with the Ford C-Max Energi SEL with Skylight. It's great to hear that you were thoroughly pleased with the car overall, except for the rear volume. You mentioned that you averaged close to 66 mpg overall and over 40 mpg on several long trips, which is impressive! The C-Max sounds like it was very smooth and quiet on the highway and handled perfectly. I'm glad to hear that you found the Ford Sync system to be great and that the Nav and Back-up Camera were excellent. It's unfortunate that the C-Max was totaled in an accident, but I'm happy to hear that you purchased another 2014 with the Parking Assist Package. Based on your positive experience, I would highly recommend the Ford C-Max Energi to anyone looking for an electric/hybrid car. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts!
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Vehicle year: 2015
This car gets great gas mileage, even better than advertised and my Prius. It's really fun to drive, with more pep and acceleration than other hybrids. Plus, it comes well-equipped for the price compared to other hybrids in its class.
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Vehicle year: 2016
Wow, you've owned over 35 vehicles in your life! That's quite impressive. From cars to trucks and everything in between, including a Nissan Leaf, you've had quite the experience. However, it sounds like you've found the perfect vehicle for you. The interior is great and comfortable, with a fantastic stereo system. It's spacious enough to fit 4 tall adults with ease and has fantastic visibility. The power and handling are also top-notch, and the gas mileage is amazing, averaging between 58mpg and 65mpg on your daily drive to work and back. Although the battery takes up most of the cargo area, it's still a fantastic vehicle. It's a shame that it doesn't come with a backup camera, but at least it has backup sensors. It's surprising that Ford doesn't advertise it more, but hopefully, they won't phase it out because it's such a great vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2017
Using it almost exclusively on electric mode. I make a lot of short trips and can go about 24 miles in all electric mode. Great rebates from Ford, Federal government and State of California. My utility company will pay for charging the first year and after that on all-electric mode it is about 1.5 cents per mile. I am very happy with the car.
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Vehicle year: 2014
This car was a blast to drive and own! I loved passing by gas stations and feeling stylish and modern in my SUV. However, after 11 months of ownership, I ran into some issues. It took 6 weeks to find parts to repair damage to the charge port and 4 weeks to find parts to repair passenger doors that were damaged while parked at the mall. The transmission also began slipping and things went downhill from there. Despite three trips to the dealer, there was still no resolution. However, the dealer has been incredibly nice throughout the process. Although the transmission module does not exist anywhere in the world, Ford is currently working with me to resolve my situation and get me into another vehicle. Overall, I really enjoyed driving this green SUV and loved the 'Go Times' feature. It addressed my wish for a green SUV and I routinely saw 58-60 MPG electric/gas combined for my commute. The first 21-26 miles were electric and my weekend errands were 100% electric. However, in the winter, between driving conditions and the Go times, I saw it drop to 38-40 MPG. The only downside was that it lacked some space due to the batteries and not having a spare felt almost 'naked'. Maybe they could redesign the hatch to be a door and mount the spare there? The electronics were also a bit annoying, even for a technology professional like myself, and MyFord could do more to inform you.I ran the Vehicle Health Report because the engine light came on. It informed me to check the dash for a check engine icon, which was really helpful. Although switching lanes on the highway was a bit rough, the ride was mostly comfortable and there was next to no interior noise. The car does ride low, which can be an issue during snow storms and mud season on my dirt road. It could use a little more height. However, getting into and out of the front and back seats was easy, and I appreciated the lumbar support. The ambient lighting was a nice touch that allowed me to customize the lighting to my mood. I also love not having a gas cap. It would be great if all vehicles had a charging outlet that is always on, like this one. I hope Ford works out the kinks in this car and adds a 4-wheel drive option. There is definitely a market for fuel-efficient SUVs, despite what some automakers believe. Making it 4-wheel drive instead of all-wheel drive would give the driver the option of when they want to prioritize fuel efficiency or driving performance. Unfortunately, I was forced to shovel the ground after every storm as snow tires and low gear did not improve grip at all. I even got stuck in my own driveway a couple of times, which was embarrassing and required me to call for a tow truck to help get me out.
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.