2015 Ford C-max problems

ford logo

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

Social links

Common 2015 Ford C-max problems

The Ford C-Max 2015 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues range from mechanical faults to electrical problems and design flaws.

  • Leaky manual transmissions: The C-Max Mk2 also has problems that include leaky manual transmissions. The cause of the fault is most often a driveshaft that has been wrongly fitted; this then damages the relevant gearbox seal. Either driveshaft can be the cause, but at least the repair procedure is one that a DIY mechanic will be able to carry out without issue with the help of Haynes Autofix.
  • Coolant pump leaks: Some C-Max Mk2 owners have reported coolant pump leaks, which can lead to engine overheating and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Failure of the keyless entry system: Cars fitted with the keyless entry system were known to suffer the odd failure. However, it’s easy to solve common problems for the C-Max Mk2 with the Haynes C-Max 2011-2019 AutoFix.
  • Child lock system failure: There have been reports of some Mk2 C-Max models suffering failure of the child-locking system. The problem is caused by water getting into the driver’s or passenger’s door, usually through a faulty seal on the door mirror. The solution is to remove the door trim and check which components are affected by water ingress, then dry them out or replace them. Then remove the door mirror and replace the sealant before refitting the mirror.
  • Keyless locking problems: Versions of the C-Max Mk2 with keyless entry can suffer failure of the system. This is because in winter salty water can get into the external front door handles, causing the door lock sensor to fail. The solution is to remove the handle and clean it out, a task that is easily accomplished by following the relevant procedure in the Mk2 C-Max problems using the Haynes C-Max 2011-2019 AutoFix.
  • Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect: Some C-Max owners have reported issues with windows, locks, latches, doors, tailgates, trunks, mirrors, seat controls, seat belts, sunroofs, convertible tops, and glass. These issues include doors poorly installed, tailgates not closing properly, rear doors getting stuck closed, and rubber seals disconnecting and jamming doors. These problems can pose safety issues and affect the overall functionality of the vehicle.
  • Non-engine electrical issues: Electrical issues are the most common faults on the C-Max, with non-engine electrics being the main area affected. Most parts are shared with other models in the Ford range so are easy to source and relatively cheap.

In summary, the Ford C-Max 2015 has several common problems, including loose door frame weather strips, leaky manual transmissions, coolant pump leaks, failures in the keyless entry system and child lock system, keyless locking problems, issues with windows, locks, latches, doors, tailgates, trunks, mirrors, seat controls, seat belts, sunroofs, convertible tops, and glass, and non-engine electrical issues. While some of these problems can be solved by DIY mechanics, others may require professional assistance. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and longevity of the vehicle.

2015 Ford C-max engine

What is the problem with the Ford C-Max 2015?

If your C-Max was built between April and May 2015, then there's a good chance that your power-assisted steering has the wrong hose. Not only does this make steering more difficult, but it could also lead to leaks that could result in a fire.

Is a Ford C-Max a good reliable car?

Is a used Ford C-Max MPV reliable? Yes, according to our most recent reliability survey. The C-Max and Grand C-Max finished in third place in the MPV class, with an excellent overall score of 95%. Only 21% of the 0-to-3-year-old examples surveyed had any faults at all.

What are the faults on a 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 Ford C-Max expensive to repair?

The average annual repair cost for a Ford is $775, which means it has above average ownership costs. The other factors that contribute to Ford reliability include an average of 0.3 visits to a repair shop per year and a 15% probability of a repair being severe.

Is a Ford C-Max a good reliable car?

Is a used Ford C-Max MPV reliable? Yes, according to our most recent reliability survey. The C-Max and Grand C-Max finished in third place in the MPV class, with an excellent overall score of 95%. Only 21% of the 0-to-3-year-old examples surveyed had any faults at all.

What are the faults on a 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 Ford C-Max expensive to repair?

The average annual repair cost for a Ford is $775, which means it has above average ownership costs. The other factors that contribute to Ford reliability include an average of 0.3 visits to a repair shop per year and a 15% probability of a repair being severe.

Which Ford C-Max is the best?

Best Ford C-MAX for...

  • Best for Economy – Ford C-Max 1.5 TDCi ECOnetic Zetec. ...
  • Best for Families – Ford C-Max 1.0 EcoBoost Titanium. ...
  • Best for Performance – Ford C-Max 2.0 TDCi Titanium. ...
  • One to Avoid – Ford C-Max 2.0 TDCi Titanium X Powershift. ...
  • Engine 2.0 TDCi. ...
  • Trim level Titanium X. ...
  • Gearbox Powershift.

2015 Ford C-max complaints

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

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

2015 Ford C-max recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2015 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.
2015-07-08
  • Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
  • Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 Ford Escape vehicles manufactured April 1, 2014, to June 12, 2015, Ford Focus vehicles manufactured June 17, 2014, to June 12, 2015, and Ford C-Max vehicles manufactured April 22, 2014, to June 12, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the engine may continue to run after the key or the START/STOP engine button is turned to off. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
  • Consequence: If the engine does not turn off as expected, someone could move the transmission shifter out of park and the vehicle may move unintentionally, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. The recall began on July 27, 2015. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 15C06.
Leave your review of 2015 Ford C-max

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2015 Ford C-max 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 ... Others can confirm this but from what I've seen discussed, Ford took care of the transmission problem after 2013. The C-Max since the 2015 model ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

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

What Owners Say ... "All doors poorly installed. Rear doors get stuck closed with interior door plastic molding preventing door to open. Big safety issue. Rubber ...

Ford C-Max Mk2 common problems (2011-2019) | Haynes Publishing
Ford C-Max Mk2 common problems (2011-2019) | Haynes Publishing
https://haynes.com/en-gb/tips-tutorials/ford-c-max-mk2-common-problems

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 ...

Other years of Ford C-max

ford c-max 2016 photo
C-max 2016
Ford

0

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford c-max 2017 photo
C-max 2017
Ford

0

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford c-max 2018 photo
C-max 2018
Ford

0

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford c-max 2008 photo
C-max 2008
Ford

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford c-max 2013 photo
C-max 2013
Ford

0

7

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
ford c-max 2014 photo
C-max 2014
Ford

0

8

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2015 Ford C-max?

Add car complaint
2015 Ford C-max photo