Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2014 Ford C-Max
The 2014 Ford C-MAX has notable issues with door latches, transmission bushing, and electrical systems, as evidenced by recalls and owner complaints. While it remains functional, potential buyers should ensure these concerns are addressed to secure a reliable purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2014 Ford C-Max has 8 NHTSA recall campaigns and 77 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #22V413000 Unintentional Rollaway Due to Detached Shift Cable NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V331000 Doors May Open While Driving NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V592000 Charge Cord May Overheat Causing Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V643000 Doors may Unexpectedly Open NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V597000 Air Bags may not Deploy as Intended NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V514000 Steering Gears Missing Ball Bearings NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V237000 Side-Curtain Rollover Air Bag Deployment Delay NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V164000 Welds on Seat Assemblies may Fail/FMVSS 207 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 19 complaints
- Power Train 18 complaints
- Unknown or Other 17 complaints
- Steering 14 complaints
- Latches/Locks/Linkages 9 complaints
- Engine 5 complaints
Of the 77 complaints on file, 6 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 77 complaints, owners report 6 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Shifter cable bushing detaches
How to check: Inspect shifter cable connection to the transmission for secure attachment.
Door latch failure
How to check: Test all doors for secure latching and closing integrity.
Charge cord thermistor missing
How to check: Verify the charge cord part number and thermistor presence if applicable.
Assembled steering gear issues
How to check: Test steering responsiveness and check for unusual noises.
Airbag deployment delay
How to check: Confirm airbag system service records and software updates.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Observe dashboard lights and initial engine sound.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights on display
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for unusual noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Unusual rattling or knocking sounds
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test steering response and gear shifts.
Red flag: Hard shifts or delayed steering feedback
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Assess smooth acceleration and gear changes.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking at high speed
- 05
Braking from speed
What to check: Test brake effectiveness and feel.
Red flag: Spongy brake pedal or pulsing feel
- 06
Parking test
What to check: Check for transmission noise during parking.
Red flag: Grinding or clunking sounds
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the shifter cable bushing been replaced?
- Are any door latch repairs pending?
- Has the steering assembly been serviced?
- Is the airbag software up-to-date?
- Is the charge cord original or replaced?
- Any electrical issues or recent repairs?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Complete recall repair records
- Recent service and maintenance records
- Vehicle history report
- Proof of airbag software updates
- Charge cord verification documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2014 Ford C-Max at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2014 Ford C-Max? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.