2013 Ford C-max problems

General information about Ford-C-max
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

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 2013 Ford C-max problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Ford C-Max 2013, several common problems have been reported:

Battery Dead: Owners have reported issues with the battery going dead in the 2013 C-Max Hybrid. This problem can lead to starting difficulties and requires frequent recharging or replacement.
Battery Goes Dead Intermittently: Another common complaint is the battery intermittently going dead when the car is parked. This issue can be frustrating and may indicate underlying electrical problems.
Power Steering Failure: Some owners have experienced power steering failure in the 2013 C-Max Hybrid. Loss of power steering assistance can make steering difficult and compromise driving safety.
Fuel Economy Below Advertised Mileage: Complaints have been made about the fuel economy not meeting the advertised mileage for the 2013 C-Max Hybrid. This discrepancy can lead to increased fuel costs for owners.
Electrical Issues: The 2013 C-Max Hybrid has been associated with various electrical problems, impacting components like lights, sensors, and other electronic systems. These issues can be challenging to diagnose and repair.
Interior Concerns: Owners have reported interior-related problems such as malfunctioning controls, faulty displays, or issues with the entertainment system. These issues can affect the overall comfort and usability of the vehicle.
Steering Problems: Steering-related complaints include issues with the steering mechanism, alignment, or responsiveness. Steering problems can compromise the handling and safety of the vehicle.
Engine Troubles: Some owners have reported engine-related issues, such as poor performance, unusual noises, or engine stalling. Engine problems can significantly impact the drivability and reliability of the car.
Bodywork Challenges: Complaints about the bodywork include issues like dings, scrapes, or paint damage. Ensuring the structural integrity and aesthetics of the bodywork is essential for the overall appearance and value of the vehicle.

These common problems reported by owners of the Ford C-Max 2013 highlight various issues that can affect the performance, safety, and overall satisfaction of owning this car. Addressing these concerns promptly and effectively is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's reliability and functionality.

How many miles will a 2013 Ford C-Max last?

With proper maintenance, your Ford C-Max should last between 150,000 miles to 200,000 miles. If you ride an average of 15,000 miles per year, your Ford C-Max should have a lifespan of 10-13 years.

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 a reliable car?

The Ford C-MAX was rated a little above average for reliability in our 2017 Driver Power owner satisfaction survey of cars currently on sale in the UK. Of the owners who responded, 11.1% reported experiencing a problem with their car on at least one occasion.

Is there any recalls on 2013 C-MAX Ford?

Ford Motor Company is issuing a safety recall for approximately 850,000 (actual 850,050) 2013-2014 Ford C-MAX, Fusion, Escape and Lincoln MKZ vehicles in North America for a potential issue with the restraints control module.

Is there any problems with Ford C-Max?

Is the Ford C-Max a reliable car?

Is there any recalls on 2013 C Max Ford?

How long does a 2013 Ford C Max hybrid battery last?

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.

2013 Ford C-max complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Ford C-max.

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

2013 Ford C-max recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2013 Ford C-max.

2022-06-10

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
Summary: 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.
Consequence: A damaged or missing bushing may prevent the vehicle from shifting into the intended gear, and cause the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. Additionally, the vehicle may roll after the driver selects the 'Park' position. Either scenario increases the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the under hood shift bushing and add a protective cap over the shift cable bushing, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed July 1, 2022. Remedy parts are expected to be available in 4th Quarter 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed October 27, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S43.

2020-06-08

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Fiesta, 2013-2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang, 2013-2015 Escape and C-Max, 2012-2015 Focus, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2013-2014 Lincoln MKZ, and 2015 MKC vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and repaired under recalls 15V-246, 16V-643 or 17V-210, however the repair may not have been completed properly. A component within the door latches may break making the doors difficult to latch and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly, and replace the side door latches if necessary, free of charge. Owners will also have the option to inspect their own vehicle's door latches and enter the date codes into a website to determine if the latches are correct. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 27, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S30.

2018-09-10

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 120V Convenience charge cords that were supplied with and sold for use with 2013-2015 Ford C-Max Energi and Fusion Energi vehicles and 2012-2015 Ford Focus Electric vehicles. Cords with part numbers FM58-10B706-AA, FM58-10B706-AB, FM58-10B706-AC, FM58-10B706-AD, FM58-10B706-AE and FM58-10B706-AF were manufactured without thermistors, and during vehicle charging, increased resistance in the house's outlet or wiring can cause the cord to overheat and melt.
Consequence: An overheated cord can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the current cord with a new 120V convenience cord with a thermistor, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S24.

2016-09-06

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2015 Ford Focus, 2013-2015 Ford Escape and Ford C-MAX, 2015 Lincoln MKC and Ford Mustang, and 2014-2016 Ford Transit Connect vehicles. A component within the door latches may break, preventing the doors from latching and/or leading the driver or a passenger to believe a door is securely closed when, in fact, it is not.
Consequence: A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the door latches with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S30.

2014-09-26

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured January 19, 2012, to November 21, 2013; Ford Fusion vehicles manufactured February 3, 2012, to August 24, 2013; Ford Escape vehicles manufactured October 5, 2011, to November 1, 2013; and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured April 25, 2012, to September 30, 2013. The coating on portions of the Restraint Control Module (RCM) may crack, and when exposed to humidity, circuits on the printed circuit board may short.
Consequence: The short circuits could cause the frontal air bags, side curtain air bags and the seat belt pretensioners to not function as intended when needed, increasing the risk of occupant injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RCM, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. The recall began on May 26,2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 14S21.

2014-05-07

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 C-MAX, and Escape vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the restraint control module (RCM) may have errors in the programming software which may result in a delayed deployment of the side-curtain rollover air bag.
Consequence: If the side-curtain rollover air bag is delayed in deploying in certain rollover circumstances, the risk of injury to the passengers is increased.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the RCM, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14S04.

2014-04-02

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured August 15, 2012, through September 10, 2013, 2013-2014 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured June 5, 2012, through August 12, 2013, and 2013-2014 Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured from July 23, 2012, through May 28, 2013. The driver and passenger seatback assemblies may have been produced with sub-standard weld joints used to attach the seat back recliner mechanism to the seat frame. The affected seat backs may have insufficient strength to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 207, "Seating Systems."
Consequence: The back of the subject seats may become loose or lean while driving and potentially increase the risk of injury in certain crashes.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seatback, free of charge. The recall began on May 30, 2014. Owners may contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14C03.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2013 Ford C-max problems:

Buying Used 2013 C-Max Hybrid, worried about transmission issues ...

https://fordcmaxhybridforum.com/topic/7044-buying-used-2013-c-max-hybrid-worried-about-transmission-issues/

Feb 19, 2018 ... obob · 1. Rear tire cupping - kind of agree. · 2. Brakes at 10K - strongly disagree. · 3. The dead battery problems are largely in the past. · 4.

Potentially buying a 2013 Ford C-Max SEL this week! However.... : r ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/cmaxhybrid/comments/lc74cd/potentially_buying_a_2013_ford_cmax_sel_this_week/

Feb 4, 2021 ... I've read about transmission issues some of you have had. This car has 53,000km (32k miles) this will be the first hybrid I've ever owned/drove ...

What's Wrong with the Ford C-Max Hybrid?

https://www.fordproblems.com/models/c-max-hybrid/

Aug 4, 2016 ... Worst Issues · battery dead in the 2013 C-Max Hybrid. 42 complaints · battery goes dead intermittently when parked in the 2013 C-Max Hybrid. 27 ...

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 ... ... Ford Energis, both C-Max and Fusion. I have ... Most C-Maxes around 2013 are going for 8-10k without problems. ... 2013 CMAX SEL Hybrid Transmission ...