The Ford C Max is a five-door compact multipurpose vehicle with lots of fascinating features. It is also practical, reliable, and economical. However, it also comes with several problems that interested buyers ought to know about. So, what are the common problems with Ford C Max?
Common problems with the Ford C Max are turbo malfunction, clutch slipping, rear brake problems, and suspension issues. Additionally, some owners have reported experiencing loss of steering power, faulty passenger doors, failing air conditioners, and burnt-out headlights.
What are the common problems with the Ford C Max?
Turbo malfunction
This is one of the most notable issues with the Ford C Max. It is common in older Ford C Max models. Users have complained that the turbocharge charger fails to kick in. The main reason for this issue is carbon buildup that leads to a blocked oil feeder pipe.
To fix this problem, you will have to clean the oil feeder pipe. But if the problem is grave, you will have to replace the entire turbocharger.
Rear brake issues
Several Ford C Max owners also complained about rear brakes not working efficiently. So, if you hear noise emanating from the rear when reversing, then you’ve got an issue with the caliper mounting bracket.
To correct this problem, you may have to change the brake pads. Additionally, you will have to remove the caliper bracket and fix the newly revised bracket.
Clutch is slipping
The clutch tends to wear out faster on the Ford C-Max. So, if you notice that the clutch is slipping as you change gears, this is a sign that the clutch has worn out. The best way to fix this problem is by replacing the worn-out clutch system. Ensure to visit a professional mechanic to help you out.
Suspension problems
Another common problem with the Ford C-Max is suspension issues. If you detect a creaking noise when driving slowly, it could be due to failing front shock absorber top mounts. Note that this issue reduces the performance of the suspension.
To fix this problem, you will have to get the sprigs re-compressed.
Loss of steering power
This problem is common in Ford C-Max models made between April and May 2015. Owners of these model years have complained that the car becomes hard to steer. Note that this problem is caused by the wrong hose on the power-assisted steering.
To fix this issue, you will have to replace the wrong hose with the right one. If left unattended, this problem can lead to leaks that could cause a fire.
Failing air conditioner
This is another common problem with the Ford C Max. This issue is normally caused by a faulty pipe connected to the compressor. Many owners have complained that the pipe usually snaps off, causing the air conditioner not to work as intended.
To fix this problem, it is recommended to detach and fit a new pipe. Furthermore, you will have to get the air conditioning system filled with gas.
Faulty passenger door
This is another common problem that all Ford C-Max owners should anticipate experiencing. Owners have stated that the rear passenger door fails to lock, but all the other doors are okay. This issue is normally caused by a broken wire between the door and the pillar. Ensure to replace the broken wire to fix the issue.
Burnt out headlights
It is normal for the xenon headlights to burn out in the Ford C-Max. Many owners have complained that these lights stopped working at a certain time. To fix this issue, the owner will have to replace the headlights. Make sure to visit a professional mechanic to help you fix the issue.
FAQ
Is the Ford C Max a reliable car?
Yes, the Ford C Max is one of the most reliable multi-purpose vehicles on the market. The C-Max has an exceptional reliability history as it was the top-ranked MPV in the 2019 JD Power Vehicle Dependability Survey. Besides, it’s worth noting that it was ranked above the Citroen C4 Picasso and Vauxhall Zafira.
How many miles will the Ford C Max last?
Like most Ford models, the Ford C Max can last for more than 200,000 miles with good care and maintenance. Regardless, the Ford C Max should last for at least 150k miles. However, lack of proper maintenance may make the owner experience many issues when the car hits at least 100k miles.
Is it expensive to maintain the Ford C Max?
According to YourMechanic, it is not expensive to maintain the Ford C-Max, unless you run into a serious problem. On average, it should cost you between $95 and $1862 to maintain the Ford C-Max. When it comes to an annual basis, the owner of the car should spend an average of $275 to maintain this MPV, which is quite fair.
Is Ford C Max fuel efficient?
Despite the Ford C-Max being efficient, it was not as efficient as the automaker stated. While the automaker said that it had a combined 47 mpg, this car has a combined 37 mpg. On top of that, it delivers 35 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. So, most of its rivals offer better fuel economy.
Why did Ford discontinue the C Max?
The Ford C Max was discontinued because of poor sales. It was the automaker’s worst-selling mass-market U.S. nameplate. Note that the sales for the C-Max dropped in 2013 and never returned. One of the reasons for the low sales was due to the originally overstated 47 mpg combined city or highway driving for the C-Max hybrid.
Conclusion
Now that you know some of the common problems with the Ford C Max, it is vital to take good care of the car and avoid most of the problems. Some of the issues that you should look out for are turbo malfunction, clutch slipping, suspension issues, rear brake problems, and loss of steering power.
Even with all these problems, the Ford C Max is still a reliable and low-maintenance MPV. With proper care and maintenance, this car can easily clock more than 200k miles.
