CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Ford›
  4. C-Max›
  5. 2017

2017 Ford C-Max Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The most frequent complaint themes are UNKNOWN OR OTHER, STEERING, and VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL.
  • Unintended acceleration is a significant safety concern reported by owners.
  • Steering system failures, including loose columns and power steering loss, are critical safety issues.
  • A recall addresses a shifter cable bushing that could lead to unintended gear selection.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Ford C-Max

The 2017 Ford C-Max presents a mixed ownership proposition for used car shoppers. While it offers practicality, its reliability record is marred by significant concerns, particularly around unintended acceleration and steering system integrity. With 2 recalls and 25 complaints logged, potential buyers should be aware of these critical issues. The vehicle's EPA fuel economy figures are listed as 0, suggesting incomplete data, but its primary drawbacks lie in its mechanical and electrical dependability.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate issues with loose steering columns and power steering failure. This can manifest as a loose steering wheel or a complete loss of power assistance, significantly impacting vehicle control.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

25
Steering4
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.6/ 10

Practicality

9.0/ 10

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing practicality over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Ford C-Max Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Ford C-Max.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Body Style
Hatchback

CarFocal account required

See the full 2017 Ford C-Max buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Steering

Most reported

Usage: 4 reports

2. VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Usage: 3 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Ford C-Max reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Ford C-Max is 9.6/10. Reliability score is 9.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 25.

How practical is the 2017 Ford C-Max for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 9.0/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. Seating capacity is 5. 5 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Ford C-Max?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Ford C-Max is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 9.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Ford C-Max?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Rack and Pinion (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,200).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Ford C-Max?▾

Base MSRP is $27,175.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Ford C-Max?▾

8 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Ford C-Max?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford C-Max, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Ford C-Max?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Ford C-Max, body style is hatchback.

Is the 2017 Ford C-Max good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2017 Ford C-Max, while a practical and fuel-efficient hybrid, is not designed for performance tuning.

What are the most common steering problems on the 2017 Ford C-Max?▾

Top complaint category: steering (4 reports, 16% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Ford C-Max?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.