Most common 2018 Ford C-Max problems
Share of the 10 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Ford C-Max complaints by model year
Best C-Max years: 2017, 2018, 2016. Years to avoid: 2013, 2014. Compare all years →
2018 Ford C-Max recalls (1)
Power train › Shift linkage/cable/rod
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.
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.
NHTSA defect investigations
Federal safety investigators have looked into a possible defect involving the 2018 Ford C-Max:
Pedestrian alert sounds
NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles.
2018 Ford C-Max engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L 4-cyl hybrid | CVT | FWD | 42 / 38 / 40 |
EPA ratings. Class: Large car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2018 Ford C-Max a good car?
Based on 10 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2018 C-Max rates better than average: 65% fewer complaints than a typical year of the C-Max at the same age. It is one of the best C-Max years by this measure. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Ford C-Max?
The steering — 2 complaints, 20% of all complaints for this model year. Next are the electrical system (2) and air bags (2).
How many recalls does the 2018 Ford C-Max have?
There is 1 recall for the 2018 Ford C-Max, the most recent from June 10, 2022 (shift linkage/cable/rod). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Ford C-Max?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2017, 2018 and 2016. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2013 and 2014. See the full Ford C-Max years comparison.
At what mileage do 2018 Ford C-Max problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 14,000 miles; 100% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
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.