Considering C Max Purchase - What do I need to know?

[Sibelus]

Looking at C Max, keeping it simple recomended years / years to avoid? Also what do I need to look for evaluating a used C Max?

 

With thanks. 

[homestead]

Look for 2016 or newer.

[jmcgliss]

Where are you located? Our 2018 C-Max Hybrid SE with 41,000 miles has been flawless, averaging 49mpg (indicated) which includes three winters. Of course, YMMV.

FWIW, our leased car goes back to the dealer in Chicago's northwest suburb in mid-May.

 

Fuelly.com is a good source for mileage stats on C-Max's by model year.  Get familiar with the range of owners' mileage to compare with the cumulative mileage of each used car. 

 

Check for back seat fold-down operation. Some owners reported a broken cable which can be difficult to fix.

 

If the 12-volt battery is older then 36-42 months, try and negotiate for a fresh, fully charged one, and have the dealer reset the battery life management system.  

 

You could also ask the dealership to pull "Oasis Reports" that will show service history, recalls fixed, etc.

[takingittothemax]

There were transmission problems that hit some (many?) C-Max models built before Oct 2015, so avoid those cars unless there's an extended 10 year warranty on them or you're willing to take the risk. I have a 2014 and the powertrain warranty expires in 2022.

 

If you want Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you need a car with Sync 3, and that's only available in 2016+ model years.

[C-MaxA2]

The important date was Aug. 15th of 2015 for the transmission 'fix'.