Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 10 | −61% | — | Fuel System | Good |
| 2016 | 32 | 1.4× | — | Electrical | Caution |
| 2015 | 15 | −61% | — | Collision Avoidance | Good |
| 2014 | 30 | 1.4× | — | Electrical | Caution |
| 2013 | 50 | 2.1× | 1 | Electrical | Avoid |
* Complaints compared with the median C-Max Energi year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Ford C-Max Energi problems
Latest Ford C-Max Energi recalls
Equipment › Electrical › Anti-theft devices
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Focus Electric vehicles and 2013 C-Max vehicles equipped with the Intelligent Access Push Button Start System. In the affected vehicles, there is no audible chime when the vehicle is operational and the driver's door is opened.
Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the door chime, free of charge. The recall began on October 30, 2013. Owners may contact the Ford customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Ford C-Max Energi should you avoid?
2013, 2014 and 2016 — these years have the most complaints relative to other C-Max Energi years at the same age, led by electrical system problems in the 2013.
What is the best year for the Ford C-Max Energi?
2015 has the fewest complaints compared with other C-Max Energi years at the same age, followed by 2017. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Ford C-Max Energi problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the electrical system (54), steering (18) and transmission & drivetrain (18). Electrical complaints peak in the 2013 model year.
How many recalls has the Ford C-Max Energi had?
1 recall across 2013–2017. The model year with the most is 2013.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.