Is the 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid reliable?

There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.

What are the most common problems with the 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid?

The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 41% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid have?

3 recalls on file for this model year.

2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid

○ Not enough data

2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid
RENDERED 2026-11-01T11:41:10.068Z

Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 121
Recalls: 3
Investigations: 3
Top problem: Electrical system

Complaints per year

2013: 121 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2013	121
2015	17
2016	8

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Electrical system

41% · 50 reports

Most commonly citing 12v/24v/48v battery and traction battery.

Show complaint excerpts

The contact owns a 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid. The contact stated that upon exiting the vehicle, the driverâs side doors failed to latch closed.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-10-09

Also filed under Latches/locks/linkages

Third time, electrical components were acting wonky (Radio, no controls worked, no shut off, not turning off when door opened, after car turned off, phone part of sync didn't work), then, not sure when, but, after parking in driveway, and not...

NHTSA ODI report, 2017-11-16

Engine

14% · 17 reports

Steering

12% · 15 reports

Most commonly citing rack and pinion.

Power train

12% · 15 reports

Most commonly citing automatic transmission.

Structure

11% · 13 reports

Most commonly citing body and hatchback/liftgate.

INJURY

Show complaint excerpts

The contact owns a 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the hatchback ajar message was displayed. The contact attempted to raise the liftgate; however, the liftgate failed to raise up.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-09-19

Safety timeline

3 recalls · 3 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2013-03-27Latches/locks/linkages13V085000 Ford is recalling certain model year 2013 Focus and C-Max vehicles built from November 16, 2012, through November 21, 2012; and model year 2013 Escape vehicles manufactured from November 14, 2012…

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the affected rear door latches, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 27, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor…

Check if this car was fixed →
R

2013-08-05Structure13V303000 Ford Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2013 C-Max hybrid vehicles, without panoramic roofs, that were manufactured January 19, 2012, through June 25, 2013.

Remedy: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install energy absorbers between the headliner and the roof. The recall began on August 5, 2013. Owners may contact the Ford customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall number is 13C02.

Check if this car was fixed →
R

2013-10-30Electrical system, equipment13V475000 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…

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…

Check if this car was fixed →
I
2016-01-16Preliminary evaluationClosed 2016-10-29 Door Latch Failure
I
2019-12-19Recall queryClosed 2022-02-07 Door Latch Failures
I
2023-01-27Defect petitionClosed 2023-08-07 Pedestrian alert sounds

Buy-smart checklist

2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Electrical system: 50 reports on file for this year.
Engine: 17 reports on file for this year.
Steering: 15 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 13V085000 · Latches/locks/linkages
Recall 13V303000 · Structure
Recall 13V475000 · Electrical system, equipment

FAQ

Is the 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid reliable?: There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid?: The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 41% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid have?: 3 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.