Ford C-Max Common Problems and Solutions
Passenger Door won't Lock
Problem:
The rear passenger door does not lock, but all other doors are fine.
Solution:
There will be a broken wire between the door and the pillar. Locate the wire and purchase a replacement from us to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Turbo Malfunction (All Turbo Models)
Problem:
The turbocharger does not activate.
Solution:
The turbo unit itself is probably clogged with carbon, which causes a blocked oil feeder pipe. Simply cleaning out the oil feeder pipe usually resolves the problem, but in rare cases, it may have become too damaged. You will need to order a replacement oil feeder pipe or, in extreme cases, the entire turbocharger. Both can be found on our website.
Difficulty level
Turbocharger
Burnt Out Headlights
Problem:
The xenon headlights are no longer working.
Solution:
It's very common for the C-Max to burn out the xenon headlights. Replacing them can be a tricky job to do yourself, but there are online guides available, and you can find the right headlights in our store.
Difficulty level
Headlight
Clutch is Slipping
Problem:
The clutch slips when you change gear.
Solution:
The clutch on the C-Max tends to wear out fairly quickly. In most cases, you will need to replace the entire clutch system, but affordable options are available on our parts list.
Difficulty level
Clutch Kit
Slippery driving
Problem:
The car tends to slide, especially in wet conditions.
Solution:
The C-Max is well known for excessive wear on the front tyres. Check the tread depth and replace any worn tyres as necessary. We always have tyres for the C-Max in stock and can deliver them to your home or workplace.
Difficulty level
Tyres
Car taking too much fuel and lacking power
Problem:
If the car is using too much fuel and not providing enough power, it could be a cracked intercooler pipe. This pipe runs from the radiator to the top of the engine. The middle section of the pipe has a metal cover, which can crack, causing the pipe to be covered in oil.
Solution:
Replace the pipe to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Coolant Pipe
Rear brakes
Problem:
If you notice a noise coming from the rear when reversing the vehicle, you probably have a problem with the caliper mounting bracket.
Solution:
In most cases, you will need to change the pads. Ensure that you remove the caliper bracket and fit the new revised bracket to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Brake Caliper Holder
External boot release button
Problem:
The boot release button at the rear is known to be vulnerable to water damage, which can render it unusable. When water seeps into the switch, it can corrode the contacts and prevent it from functioning properly.
Solution:
To resolve this, you should seal around the button to prevent water ingress. Try cleaning the contacts and refitting it. If that still doesn't work, you'll need to buy a new switch.
Difficulty level
Boot Lock & Keys
Suspension
Problem:
If you notice a creaking noise when driving slowly, this could be caused by the front shock absorber top mounts. These are sometimes known to fail on this vehicle, which reduces the suspension's performance.
Solution:
To fix this, you will need to have the springs re-compressed.
Difficulty level
Air conditioning
Problem:
This is a very common issue on the Ford C-Max and is typically caused by a faulty pipe attached to the compressor. The pipe in question is known to snap off easily, leading to the air conditioning not functioning as effectively as it should.
Solution:
To fix this, you can detach and fit a new pipe. You will need to have the air conditioning system recharged with gas at a specialist garage.
Difficulty level
Aircon Pipe
Misty Windows
Problem:
The windows fog up quickly, and you need to turn on your air conditioning to clear them, which can take some time.
Solution:
Check your cabin filter. It might just need a thorough clean. If it’s broken, you will need us to deliver a replacement cabin filter and fit the new one.
Difficulty level
Parking Brake Failure
Problem:
When you take out the ignition key, the parking brake does not automatically engage.
Solution:
In most cases, you will need to take the car to a Ford dealer to have your electronic parking brake module reprogrammed. Sometimes, you will have to replace the entire module yourself, but they are easy to find in our store, although it can be a tricky job to do.
Difficulty level
Loss of Steering Power
Problem:
It's becoming more difficult to steer the car.
Solution:
If your C-Max was manufactured between April and May 2015, there's a high chance that your power-assisted steering has the incorrect hose. Not only does this make steering harder, but it could also cause leaks that might lead to a fire. You can order a replacement hose from us and fit it yourself.
Difficulty level
Power Steering Hoses