2017 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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Common 2017 Ford C-max energi problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2017 Ford C-Max Energi, several common problems have been identified:
- Hybrid Battery Issues: Some owners have reported concerns related to the hybrid batteries, such as the car not starting, displaying a powertrain fault symbol, and issues with the EV modes not functioning correctly. This could indicate potential problems with the hybrid battery system or electrical components.
- Door-Sealing Problems: Loose sealing strips around the door frames have been reported, causing a high-pitched squeal at speed. This issue can be resolved by removing, straightening, and refitting the sealing strips with new adhesive.
- Transmission Oil Leaks: Certain versions of the C-Max Energi have experienced oil leaks from the transmission due to incorrectly fitted driveshafts, leading to damage to gearbox seals. DIY mechanics can address this issue by correctly refitting the driveshafts.
- Child Lock System Failure: Some models have faced issues with the child-locking system, often caused by water ingress through faulty seals on the door mirror. The solution involves removing the affected components, drying them out, and replacing any damaged parts.
- Keyless Entry Problems: Versions equipped with keyless entry have encountered failures in the system, particularly in winter when salty water can affect the door lock sensor. Cleaning the affected areas and following specific procedures can resolve this issue.
- Miscellaneous Electrical and Mechanical Faults: Owners have reported various electrical and mechanical faults, such as issues with spark plugs, ABS modules, and battery voltage. These problems may require diagnostic tests and specific repairs to address them effectively.
By addressing these common problems with the 2017 Ford C-Max Energi based on owner complaints, owners and potential buyers can be better informed about potential issues they may encounter with this vehicle.
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 gas mileage on a 2017 Ford Cmax Energi?
39 MPG combined
Compare Side-by-Side
2017 Ford C-MAX Energi Plug-In Hybrid | |
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EPA Fuel Economy 1 gallon of gasoline=33.7 kWh Show electric charging stations near me | Elec + Gas Reg. Gas |
Combined MPG on Electricity:95 MPGe Combined MPG on Gas Only:39 MPG combined city/highway combined city/highway |
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.
What is the gas mileage on a 2017 Ford Cmax Energi?
39 MPG combined
Compare Side-by-Side
2017 Ford C-MAX Energi Plug-In Hybrid | |
---|---|
EPA Fuel Economy 1 gallon of gasoline=33.7 kWh Show electric charging stations near me | Elec + Gas Reg. Gas |
Combined MPG on Electricity:95 MPGe Combined MPG on Gas Only:39 MPG combined city/highway combined city/highway |
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.
2017 Ford C-max energi complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2017 Ford C-max energi.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Negative 2017 Ford C-max energi car reviews
Positive 2017 Ford C-max energi car reviews
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This hybrid has won me over to the technology. Fabulous tech and feedback on driving & braking to improve gas mileage is wonderful. Four years of driving this car and would buy another in a heartbeat. Car continues to amaze me. Better than I ever imagined. Thrilled that I purchased it.
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I recently visited the dealership to check out the Escapes. I was looking for a hatchback with good gas mileage and plenty of features. During my visit, the salesman suggested I take a look at the C-Max. Although I was initially hesitant about hybrids, he showed me a 2015 lease turn in that changed my mind. The C-Max has a lot of options, sits like a small SUV, has plenty of power, and handles beautifully with the wider tires and bigger wheels. I'm also impressed with the fuel economy - I'm consistently getting over 80 MPG thanks to the initial charge on the Energi and Hybrid backup. After driving 2400 miles, I've only had to fill up three times. Everyone who has ridden with me compliments the interior, quiet ride, and comfort. When I tell them about the fuel economy, they are always surprised! I'm absolutely in love with this car and have no regrets about my purchase!
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I have owned four Priuses in the past, and my wife also drives one. When she drove my C-Max, her first response was 'WOW!' Although I wanted a plug-in, the Prius plug-in was not available in my state and was also more expensive than the C-Max Energi. I am so glad I chose the C-Max Energi! It is better than the Prius in every possible way, except for reliability, which is legendary in the Prius. The C-Max could be too, but I haven't had it long enough to know. It is faster, quieter, much more comfortable, and I got an unbelievable deal on it (especially when you include the $4,500 refundable federal tax credit!). I am also getting more miles per charge than advertised, as much as 28 miles. Now that the cold weather has arrived, the range is down to about 16 miles, but I am still averaging 76 mpg through the first 17,000 miles. You can charge it at home, and it fully charges overnight with a regular outlet. As best we can tell, it costs about $20 per month in electricity. Lucky for me, I have fast chargers available for free at my work, and it fully charges in just over 2 hours. I cannot recommend this car more highly! It is crazy that I never see any on the road. Ford clearly isn't doing a good enough job marketing this car. It blows the Prius away, and I know what I'm talking about. Between my wife and me, we've had seven. I never thought I'd buy any other car.
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I am thrilled with the drivability and gas economy. I am having a wonderful time driving this car and it makes my trips to work enjoyable. I feel comfortable and safe in the car.
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I leased one in 13 and I'm picking up my second one. I didn't care for the hybrid, but I love the engine. I went a year and a half before needing gas. Now I drive more, averaging around 180 miles per gallon. I buy gas every 1200 miles or so for 10 gallons. I drive 80 plus 20 miles each way to work and home, and I charge at home and work, so I get a fair amount of electric use. I estimate the electric cost at 85 cents per gallon equivalent, but the best part is not having to go to the gas station often and the quiet electric engine.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2017 Ford C-max energi problems:
2017 Ford C-MAX Energi Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2017 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
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 ...
2017 Ford C-MAX Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Brakes · Noises And Leaks · EV Battery · Exhaust · Steering And Suspension · Drive System · Engine Major · Climate System.

2017 C-Max Problems : r/cmaxhybrid
Jul 6, 2023 ... I have a 2017 Ford C-Max. It has approx 78,000 miles. Last week, I went to start my car and it wouldn't start. After a few attempts it did ...

My 2013 Ford C-Max Energi Trans Issues Solved - eCVT ...
Apr 11, 2020 ... ... 2017 VIN's that I could see a change i part #'s. I tried to get a 2016 trans which many said had updates that addressed the bearing issues.
Destin Baumbach 2025-04-13
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.
Robert Windler 2024-10-19
The C-Max has some quirks to consider before purchasing. During the winter, it takes a while for the car to warm up and the battery drains quickly when using the heater and fans on short trips. However, during the summer, the car averages 43mpg and can even eliminate the need for gas entirely. It's important to note that the hybrid mode may not kick in on short trips below 20 degrees. The lithium ion battery has an 8-year warranty and typically lasts around 10 years with proper care. While the C-Max is a good car, there may be better options available from competitors.
Gerardo Greenfelder 2024-04-03
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Mini Van has a turning radius of 19.85′, while the 2017 Ford C-Max has a turning radius of 19.19′. It's worth noting that the C-Max's handling may not be as smooth as expected, as its U-turn is quite wide. In comparison, the Escape SUV handles U-turns better. The salesman mentioned that the C-Max gets 40 mpg, but that's something I already get on my older Honda Civic with a gasoline engine!
Deven Reilly 2024-02-02
The car's gas mileage is about the same as my previous car, a 2012 Ford Focus. It is a bit low to the ground, which can make getting in and out a bit of a challenge, and I have hit my head a few times. The batteries do take up some cargo space, but overall it's a comfortable drive with good brakes and acceleration. I haven't needed any major repairs in the two years I've had it.