2015 Ford C-max energi problems

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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.

2015 Ford C-max energi

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Common 2015 Ford C-max energi problems

The 2015 Ford C-MAX Energi has been associated with several common problems based on complaints from its owners. These issues primarily revolve around the vehicle's doors, windows, locks, and latches, as well as the infotainment system and fuel efficiency.

  • Infotainment System: The Ford MyTouch infotainment system has been criticized for being difficult to operate, with numerous calls being received by the Lemon Law Center regarding battery and stalling issues, as well as glitches with the Ford MyTouch/sync system.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The Ford C-MAX Energi has been questioned about its EPA gas mileage rating of 47 miles per gallon, with Consumer Reports unable to exceed 37 miles per gallon after 2,000 miles of testing. This discrepancy between the promised and actual fuel efficiency has been a point of contention among owners.
  • Recall: Ford has issued a recall for C-MAX vehicles not equipped with panoramic roof panels due to a risk of head injury in the event of an accident, as testing has shown that occupants have a greater risk of injury with these vehicles.
  • J.D. Power Ranking: The Ford C-MAX has ranked dead last in J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study, with consumers complaining of confusing and poorly functioning technology.

These common problems have led to frustration and dissatisfaction among many owners of the 2015 Ford C-MAX Energi, with some reporting that the vehicle has been a constant headache due to its reliability and cost of ownership issues.

2015 Ford C-max energi engine

Is the Ford C-Max Energi reliable?

The current Consumer reports Used Car Guide recommends the C-Max as “a hidden used car gem.” Avoid the 2013 model year, though. Transmissions on the Hybrid (not Energi) model were failure-prone before 2015. I own a 2014 C-Max Hybrid and a 2017 C-Max Energi, both for about six years now.

How long will Ford C-Max Energi last?

roughly 8 years

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 problems with 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.

Is there a recall on Ford C-Max Energi transmission?

Power train

Recall no. 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.

What is the problem with the 2015 Ford Cmax Hybrid?

Ford is recalling 2015 C-Max hybrids to address a software glitch, as part of a larger recall of more than 432,000 2015 models. The software-related malfunction in the body-control module could cause the engines in affected vehicles to continue running even after the driver has turned off the ignition.

Is the Ford C-Max Energi reliable?

The current Consumer reports Used Car Guide recommends the C-Max as “a hidden used car gem.” Avoid the 2013 model year, though. Transmissions on the Hybrid (not Energi) model were failure-prone before 2015. I own a 2014 C-Max Hybrid and a 2017 C-Max Energi, both for about six years now.

Is there any problems with 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 long will Ford C-Max Energi last?

roughly 8 years

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.

2015 Ford C-max energi complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2015 Ford C-max energi.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

Negative 2015 Ford C-max energi car reviews

  1. Sherman Bayer 2024-11-17

    I experienced problems with the electrical system early on. However, I am confident that the issue was primarily caused by the dealership. Despite the sales people and management appearing to care, the car had to be towed twice due to the technicians failing to make proper electrical connections. Shockingly, the second time they delivered the car to me without reassembling the hybrid battery compartment! Fortunately, FMC came to the rescue and made some commercial accommodation that has worked for me.

  2. Kane Watsica 2024-10-17

    It seems like there might be some issues with the car you're describing. Specifically, you mentioned that there is no trunk space, the glove box cannot be locked, the colors in the dash are blending, and there is not enough storage space. Is there anything else you'd like to add or any other concerns you have?

  3. Luis Friesen 2024-07-23

    If you're looking for a car that will last, I would recommend considering other options. While I have had some issues with this car, such as having to replace a headlight assembly and battery, I understand that these things can happen with any vehicle. Unfortunately, my extended warranty did not cover these repairs. Additionally, the car's value has not held up well over time, especially if you drive more than 15,000 miles per year. If you're looking for a reliable and valuable car, I would suggest considering a Toyota Prius. I also own one of these and have had a great experience with it. It's important to note that while I have had some issues with my Ford, I still appreciate its features and use it for my daily commute. Thank you for considering my experience with this car.

  4. Rod Schinner 2024-04-03

    charge port cover is held in place with a spring and if it disconnect it affects the entire housing which can cost up to $500. What a surprise... it happens after the warranty! The charge error message "fault in charging!" I cannot believe the poor design that cost the owner hundreds! I have own cars since the 70s and this is the 1st time a signal light bulb fails within 2-years! I have a truck/2004 and I never had to replace any lights to this day. Cheap!!!

Positive 2015 Ford C-max energi car reviews

  1. Bruce Rosenbaum 2025-07-15

    You've owned over 35 vehicles in your life, including cars, trucks, and even a Nissan Leaf. According to you, this is the best vehicle you've had so far. It has a great interior and is very comfortable, with a fantastic stereo system. It can easily accommodate 4 tall adults and has fantastic visibility. The power and handling are also great, and it gets fantastic gas mileage, averaging between 58mpg and 65mpg on your daily drive to work and back. The only downside is that the huge battery takes up most of the cargo area, and for the price of this vehicle, it should have a backup camera included (although it does have backup sensors). You think it's a fantastic vehicle and you're surprised that Ford doesn't advertise it more. You hope they're not going to phase it out because that would be a huge mistake.

  2. Tyrell Larson 2025-06-29

    I had this car for a short time and unfortunately had a horrific crash, which resulted in my little C-Max being totaled. However, I was able to walk away from the accident thanks to the car's impressive safety features. Even the folks at the body shop were surprised when I showed up the next day, assuming I would be in the hospital for a while. Despite the accident, I must say that the car was a lot of fun to drive. When I bought it, I traded in a Focus and found that the C-Max, built on a Focus chassis, handled very similarly. The acceleration takes a little getting used to, as it is very fast and quiet. If you're switching from gas to electric, be aware of this, as you can easily find yourself speeding without realizing it. My only complaint about the car is that the MyFord Touch system is rather crummy, but this was changed in 2016. Additionally, if you can find one with a backup camera, that is a nice feature. Unfortunately, Ford decided to make the backup camera an expensive option, so most C-Max models don't have it. However, since this car is three years old, many are now available on the market as people turn in their leases. If you're looking for a good used car that gets great mileage and is fun to drive, you'll love the C-Max.

  3. Isaiah Von 2025-05-26

    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!

  4. Benedict Lehner 2025-05-24

    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.

  5. Jalen Becker 2025-05-10

    I absolutely love it! I bought it a year ago and waited to post a review until I had driven through the MA winter and had a year's worth of cost data. The total cost for the year was only $0.06/mile (compared to an SUV which costs $0.19/mile). The overall mpg is an impressive 97 mpg (compared to an SUV which gets only 18 mpg). It only costs $0.96/night to charge using a regular 110V plug in the garage. For the full year, I spent $283 on 8 tanks of gas and 365 days x $0.96/night electricity, which came to a total of $633. I drove 10,321 miles and only had to do maintenance once at 10K miles, which cost $0. It did amazingly well in the winter with stock tires; the heavy weight and low center of gravity helped a lot. I only had to garage it on the 2-feet-of-snow days. I must admit, I learned how to drive a hybrid and am as diligent as possible about it. It felt weird at first, but now it feels normal. It makes a big difference!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2015 Ford C-max energi problems:

C Max Energi Used 2015 vs 2017 : r/cmaxhybrid
C Max Energi Used 2015 vs 2017 : r/cmaxhybrid
https://www.reddit.com/r/cmaxhybrid/comments/rkhmbt/c_max_energi_used_2015_vs_2017/

Dec 20, 2021 ... From what I've seen on forums and this subreddit, these cars are very reliable with the main issues being the transmission and a 12V battery ...

2015 Ford C-MAX Energi Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2015 Ford C-MAX Energi Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/ford/c-max-energi/2015/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2015 Ford C-MAX Energi? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...

Stay away from C-Max Energi with transmission issues? : r/cmaxhybrid
Stay away from C-Max Energi with transmission issues? : r/cmaxhybrid
https://www.reddit.com/r/cmaxhybrid/comments/r7kzfw/stay_away_from_cmax_energi_with_transmission/

Dec 2, 2021 ... Hey all, been lurking for a bit and have been highly interested in the Ford Energis, both C-Max and Fusion. I have a '12 Focus SEL right now ...

2015 Ford C-MAX Reliability - Consumer Reports
2015 Ford C-MAX Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/c-max/2015/reliability/

Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Body Hardware · Electrical Accessories · Engine Major · Engine Electrical · Electric Motor · Drive System · Brakes · Steering And ...

Common 2015 Ford C-Max Hybrid Problems - Q&A on Revving Issues
Common 2015 Ford C-Max Hybrid Problems - Q&A on Revving Issues
https://www.justanswer.com/ford/gqcfc-2015-ford-c-max-hybrid-seems-it-s-revving-much.html

May 4, 2021 ... 2015 Ford C-Max hybrid. Seems like it's revving to much. Particularly at low speed with AC on. Feels like the trans is - Answered by a ...

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