2015 Ford C-max hybrid 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 2015 Ford C-max hybrid problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2015 Ford C-Max Hybrid, several common problems have been reported:
- Power Steering (EPAS) Failure:
- Owners have experienced issues with the electronic power assisted steering (EPAS) system, leading to power steering failure. This problem can significantly impact the handling and safety of the vehicle.
- Battery Dead Intermittently:
- Some owners have reported complaints about the battery going dead intermittently when the car is parked. This issue can be frustrating and inconvenient, especially if it occurs frequently.
- Fuel Economy Not Meeting Advertised Mileage:
- Several owners have expressed concerns that the fuel economy of the 2015 Ford C-Max Hybrid does not meet the advertised mileage. This discrepancy can be disappointing for drivers expecting better fuel efficiency.
- Electrical Issues:
- Complaints related to electrical problems have been raised by a significant number of owners. Electrical issues can manifest in various ways, affecting the functionality of different systems within the vehicle.
- Interior Concerns:
- Some owners have reported issues with the interior of the car, although specific details about these problems are not provided. Interior issues can range from comfort-related issues to problems with electronic components.
- Steering Problems:
- Steering-related complaints have been noted by a number of owners. Steering issues can impact the drivability and safety of the vehicle, requiring prompt attention and potential repairs.
- Engine Troubles:
- A few owners have highlighted concerns regarding engine performance or reliability. Engine problems can vary in severity and may require professional diagnosis and repair to ensure the vehicle's proper functioning.
- Body Concerns:
- Reports of body-related issues have been mentioned by some owners. Body problems can include issues with the exterior components, such as doors, panels, or other body parts, affecting the aesthetics and functionality of the vehicle.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2015 Ford C-Max Hybrid highlight various areas of concern that can impact the overall driving experience and reliability of the vehicle. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining the performance and safety of the car.
How long do C-Max Hybrid batteries last?
100,000 to 200,000 miles
Average Lifespan: Hybrid batteries typically have a lifespan of 100,000 to 200,000 miles. Warranty Coverage: Most hybrid car manufacturers offer warranties that cover the hybrid battery for up to 8 years or 100,000 miles.
What are the common faults on Ford C-Max?
Ford C-Max Common Problems and Solutions
- Passenger Door won't Lock. Problem: ...
- Turbo Malfunction (All Turbo Models) Problem: ...
- Burnt Out Headlights. Problem: ...
- Clutch is Slipping. Problem: ...
- Slippery driving. Problem: ...
- Car taking too much fuel and lacking power. Problem: ...
- Rear brakes. Problem: ...
- External boot release button. Problem:
Is the Ford C-Max Hybrid a good car?
Likes: Speedier than most other hybrids, refined powertrain, athletic chassis. Dislikes: Not as efficient as rivals, lackluster cornering grip, top-heavy feeling in corners. The C-Max hybrid powertrain is refined and well-integrated, and the transition from electric power to gasoline operation is practically seamless.
How much does it cost to replace a battery in a Ford C-Max?
The average cost for a Ford C-Max Battery Replacement is between $214 and $225. Labor costs are estimated between $44 and $56 while parts are typically priced around $170. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.
What is the problem with the 2015 C-Max 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.
How long do C-Max hybrid batteries last?
100,000 to 200,000 miles
Average Lifespan: Hybrid batteries typically have a lifespan of 100,000 to 200,000 miles. Warranty Coverage: Most hybrid car manufacturers offer warranties that cover the hybrid battery for up to 8 years or 100,000 miles.
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 the Ford C-Max Hybrid a good car?
Likes: Speedier than most other hybrids, refined powertrain, athletic chassis. Dislikes: Not as efficient as rivals, lackluster cornering grip, top-heavy feeling in corners. The C-Max hybrid powertrain is refined and well-integrated, and the transition from electric power to gasoline operation is practically seamless.
2015 Ford C-max hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford C-max hybrid problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Steering problems
- Back over prevention problems
- Electronic stability control (esc) problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2015 Ford C-max hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2015 Ford C-max hybrid complaints
The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2015 Ford C-max hybrid.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- VIN: 1FADP5BU4FL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Ford C-Max Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal sound. The contact stated that the more the accelerator pedal was depressed, the louder the sound became. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with wheel bearings failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the wheel bearing repair was performed by an independent mechanic. The failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the transmission had previously been replaced by the dealer two years prior to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was advised to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 75,900.
BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-15
- VIN: 1FADP5BU1FL
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Ford C-Max Hybrid. The contact stated that while reversing, the rearview camera failed to activate as needed. Additionally, the contact stated while reversing on other occasions, the rearview camera image was black. A message advising that the rearview camera had failed and to contact the dealer was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the rearview camera needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- VIN: 1FADP5BUXFL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Ford C-Max Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V413000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was made aware of the issue and informed him that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- VIN: 1FADP5AU6FL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Ford C-Max Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, he heard a loud screeching noise under the hood of the vehicle while shifting gears. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact then received notification of NHTSA Campaign number: 22V413000 (Power Train) however, the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair and the vehicle was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the shifter cable bushing was replaced; however, the transmission needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-08
- VIN: 1FADP5BU7FL
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: POWER STEERING ASSIST WARNING LIGHT COMES ON, WARNING TO GET OFF THE ROAD AND TAKE TO A DEALER. EACH TIME I HAVE BEEN DRIVING WHEN THE LIGHT CAME ON. COULD NOT DRIVE IT HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED TO MY MECHANIC. TWO WEEKS LATER THE POWER ASSIST LIGHT HAS COME ON. NOT SAFE TO DRIVE WILL HAVE IT TOWED TO A FORD DEALERSHIP. IS IS VERY HARD TO TURN AND THE (EPAS) ELECTRONIC POWER ASSIST STEERING NEEDS TO BE REPLACED OR FIX THE WHOLE SYSTEM.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-23
- VIN: 1FADP5BU9FL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: AFTER STARTING THE CAR WITH THE KEYLESS IGNITION THE BRAKES REMAIN LOCKED. RESTARTS MAY RELEASE THE BRAKES. STOMPING ON THE BRAKE MAY RELEASE THE BRAKES. IT'S INTERMITTENT. SOMETIMES IT OCCURS WHEN DRIVING EG. STOPPING FOR A RED LIGHT AND THEN FINDING THE BRAKES GRIPPING. SOMETIMES YOU CAN DRIVE BUT THERE APPEARS TO BE A SLIGHT DRAG, OTHER TIMES ITS LOCKED AND THE CAR JERKS/SHUDDERS IF YOU TRY TO DRIVE. THE RED BRAKE LIGHT GOES ON ON THE DASHBOARD AND IF YOU DRIVE THE WARNING NOTICE MAY APPEAR. TODAY OUR LOCAL FORD DEALER SAID IT NEEDS A NEW BRAKE VACUUM AT A COST OF $900. THEY INDICATED THEY HAVE SEEN THIS BEFORE AND WE SHOULD NOT DRIVE THE CAR. THIS CAR IS 3 YEARS OLD WITH 27,000 MILES. THIS CLEARLY IS A DANGEROUS DEFECT. FORD KNOWS THIS IS A PROBLEM AND SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ITS REPAIR.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-14
- VIN: 1FADP5BU6FL
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK, DOING ABOUT 35 MPH IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC, WHEN I HEARD A LOUD ALMOST METALLIC "POP" FROM THE EXTERIOR REAR. I WAS LESS THAN A HALF MILE FROM HOME, AND THE BACK WINDOW, ALTHOUGH STILL IN ITS FRAME,WAS COMPLETELY CRACKLED/SHATTERED. NO SIGN OF IMPACT FROM ANYTHING HAVING HIT IT, IT WAS ACTUALLY BOWING OUT.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-25
- VIN: 1FADP5BUXFL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, GOT MESSAGE INDICATING A STEERING ISSUE. TRIED RESTARTING THE CAR AND THERE WAS NO POWER STEERING. HAD TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP. WAS TOLD IT IS A STEERING GEAR THAT FAILED AND THAT THE WHOLE COMPONENT OF WHICH THE STEERING GEAR IS A PART OF NEEDS TO BE REPLACED.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-24
- VIN: 1FADP5AU6FL
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THESE ISSUES WERE ALL FOUND UPON PURCHASE WITH 3 MILES ON ODOMETER WITHOUT ANY DISCLOSED HISTORY OF DAMAGE. 1. DRIPPING/TRICKLING SOUND COMING FROM FRONT OF CAR AT 45+ MPH WITH ACTIVE PRECIPITATION. SOURCE UNKNOWN, LOCATION UNKNOWN. HTTPS://DRIVE.GOOGLE.COM/OPEN?ID=0BW4QLYFTLMBGWVI2OHHASF9PYLE 2. LOUD ROAD/WIND NOISE, ESPECIALLY ON DRIVERS SIDE AT 45+ MPH 3. INCONSISTENT ALIGNMENT GAPS BETWEEN HATCH AND BODY SIDES ( THE HATCH HAD PREVIOUSLY BEEN SIGNIFICANTLY OUT OF ALIGNMENT AND COCKEYED. INCONSISTENT GAPS STILL REMAIN AFTER REPAIRS. 4. ** NOTICEABLE BODY FLEX RESULTING IN ALTERED PANEL GAPS. **BODY PANEL GAPS ARE ALTERED DEPENDING ON THE GROUND THE CAR IS PARKED ON. MINOR CHANGES IN TERRAIN CAUSE DOORS TO CLOSE MORE DIFFICULTLY AND HATCH GAPS TO SHIFT. 5. REAR PASSENGER SIDE DOOR IS NOT FLUSH WITH BODY PANEL HTTPS://DRIVE.GOOGLE.COM/OPEN?ID=0BW4QLYFTLMBGBDHFQUJLR05AQLU 6. HOOD OUT OF ALIGNMENT, POINTED OUT TO US BY THE COLLISION CENTER. ONE SIDE WAS RESTING FLUSH ON THE HEADLIGHT. WE ADJUSTED THE HOOD BUMPERS BUT STILL CANNOT ALIGN IT EVENLY. 7. FRONT AND REAR DRIVERS-SIDE DOORS ARE MISALIGNED 8. WEATHER STRIPPING DISLODGED AND PROTRUDING FROM DOOR SEAM 9. PATCHES OF MISSING PAINT COVERED IN CLEAR COAT ON THE INSIDE OF THE HATCH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-04
- VIN: 1FADP5BU9FL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FORD C-MAX HYBRID 2015 12V BATTERY KEEPS GOING DEAD. HAS HAPPENED 6 TIMES IN ONE YEAR. FORD DEALERSHIP HAS CHECKED VEHICLE AND FOUND NO ISSUES. WHEN BATTERY GOES DEAD, THE CAR CAN NOT BE STARTED AND HAS TO BE EITHER TOWED OR JUMP STARTED. THE ISSUE HAS BEEN HAPPENING WHEN THE CAR IS JUST USED FOR LOCAL TRAVEL LESS THAN 3 MILES. AFTER ABOUT A WEEK OF THAT TYPE OF DRIVING THE BATTERY CAN NOT RECOVER AND DEPLETES. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING ISSUE WITH THE C-MAX HYBRID MODEL OF ALL YEARS. THE BATTERY IN THE CAR IS NOT LARGE ENOUGH (CAPACITY) TO RECOVER ON REPEATED SHORT TRIPS. THE CAR GIVES NO INDICATION WHEN THE 12V BATTERY IS LOW AND MAY FAIL.
Negative 2015 Ford C-max hybrid car reviews
Positive 2015 Ford C-max hybrid car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that you had a great experience with your 2015 C-Max from 2017 to 2023! It's impressive that you only had one issue with the AC in 60,000 miles, and even better that it was repaired under warranty. The car sounds like it was comfortable, reliable, and had decent acceleration. Plus, getting 41-43 mpg around town and 36-38 on the highway is fantastic! It's great to hear that you found it to be a real steal compared to a Prius, and that you got so much more car for less money.
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Working for visiting nurses means I'm always on the go, but this car has been fantastic! With an average speed of 58 MPH, I can get to my appointments quickly and efficiently. The stereo is top-notch and the car handles well, making me feel safe on the road. The navigation system is a lifesaver and the Bluetooth works perfectly for when I need to take calls while driving. As a lefty, I appreciate the location of the buttons and find the car to be quite comfortable. The panoramic glass roof and tinted windows make the interior feel much more spacious. Overall, this car was the perfect choice for me.
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I purchased this car in January 2019 with 20,000 miles on it. After driving it for 9,000 miles, I am extremely happy with it! The mileage around town averages 47-48, and during a recent 3500-mile trip averaging 37-39 with the a/c on the whole time, the pickup was impressive. The delivery is smooth, like turning a dimmer switch up. The seats are quiet and comfortable, although it doesn't hold a great deal of luggage, but you can't have everything! As of the 22nd of July 2022, I still love this car. The only expenses I've had since owning this C Max are replacing the tires and oil changes. The in-town mileage consistently ranges between 42-44 mpg.
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If you're in the market for a hybrid - and you should be - this is the one. It has all the bells and whistles, and the appointments are even better than Toyota's. I've been extremely pleased.
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Ford does not provide a spare tire and obtaining one independently can be a challenge due to the lack of information available online or in the owner's manual. Additionally, there is no guidance provided on the use of a carjack. It is worth noting that tire insurance is a profitable product for Ford. However, waiting for AAA to tow your car to a repair shop for 90 minutes is not as convenient as changing a spare tire and being back on the road in just 15 minutes.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2015 Ford C-max hybrid problems:
C Max Energi Used 2015 vs 2017 : r/cmaxhybrid
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 Hybrid Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2015 Ford C-MAX Hybrid? 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 ...
2015 Ford C-MAX Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Body Hardware · Electrical Accessories · Engine Major · Engine Electrical · Electric Motor · Drive System · Brakes · Steering And ...
Buying Used 2013 C-Max Hybrid, worried about transmission issues ...
Feb 19, 2018 ... Ford made changes to the transmission for the 2014s and then made further change in the 2015s so getting a late build 2015 or later would be ...
Other years of Ford C-max hybrid
Are you having problems with your 2015 Ford C-max hybrid?
Dexter Hessel 2024-11-22
Despite some initial issues with the electronics and advertised gas mileage, I have found the 2013 C-Max to be a powerful hybrid with great cargo capacity. While Ford has not yet addressed the issue with the rear doors, I have been consistently getting 42-43 mpg on fill ups, which exceeds the EPA estimate. Overall, my experience with the C-Max has been positive and I am confident in its capabilities.
Alexie Mitchell 2024-11-16
After purchasing the vehicle, I noticed some issues and decided to have a friend drive it home. Unfortunately, there were some problems with sluggishness and poor braking. Later on, while driving on route 7, a rabbit ran in front of the vehicle causing some damage. Despite my efforts to fix it, I have had ongoing issues with the battery, engine, and braking performance. The audio system has also been problematic, freezing multiple times a day. Although the dealership has not been helpful, there are some features of the vehicle that I do appreciate, such as the comfortable seating position and quiet tires. However, I have decided to sell the vehicle due to the constant maintenance required to keep it running. Overall, I would not recommend this vehicle. Update at 29k: the audio system is still malfunctioning and Ford will not replace it.
Cielo Rogahn 2024-09-06
The dashboard continues to slide forward on both sides, despite several replacements and repairs. It is unclear why the manufacturer attempted to fix the issue if it is now being claimed as part of the design. Additionally, the theft of my 'Support our Troops' magnet is a frustrating occurrence. However, I remain confident in finding a solution to the dashboard issue.
Emilio Lowe 2024-07-28
I read another post that said the cost was good. I wonder where they live. I paid over 26,000 in 2015 and now it has been offered for 10 and 11???????? Other vehicles of the same kind did not experience a drop in resale value.
Faustino Jakubowski 2024-04-03
Although the car has poor gas mileage at 34.1mpg overall, it is important to note that there are also some safety concerns. Unfortunately, Ford engineering missed their published specs for turning diameter by 4 feet, which can make U-turns and parking in tight spaces a challenge. This can be dangerous for both the driver and other pedestrians or drivers. Additionally, the car lacks hybrid help and can be quite noisy. Overall, I would caution anyone considering a purchase of the CMax to take these factors into account.