Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Ford C-Max
The 2017 Ford C-MAX has few widespread issues, with the most serious being transmission-related due to potentially degrading or detaching shifter cable bushings. This issue is covered under a recall. Other concerns, such as occasional power train or steering complaints, should be checked but are less common. Overall, it remains a decent used purchase if these issues are absent.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Ford C-Max has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 13 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
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 3 complaints
- Unknown or Other 3 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 3 complaints
- Steering 2 complaints
- Wheels 2 complaints
- Electrical System 1 complaint
Of the 13 complaints on file, 1 reports a crash and 1 a fire (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Shifter cable bushing failure
How to check: Inspect shifter cable bushing for wear or disconnection.
General engine complaint
How to check: Listen for abnormal engine noises or excessive vibrations.
Steering discomfort
How to check: Check for smooth and responsive steering movement.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Persistent loud knocking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for stable idle without shaking.
Red flag: Rough or unstable idling
- 03
City driving
What to check: Notice smooth gear transitions.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed shifting
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure consistent power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or surging during acceleration
- 05
Steering turns
What to check: Test for easy and direct steering.
Red flag: Excessive play or stiffness
- 06
Braking smoothly
What to check: Feel for even braking pressure.
Red flag: Pulling to one side or pulsation
- 07
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Observe vehicular ease during parking.
Red flag: Difficulties with steering or control
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the shifter cable bushing recall been addressed?
- Any recurring engine or power train issues?
- Has the vehicle needed major steering repairs?
- How frequently has the car been serviced?
- Any accidents or body damages reported?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Proof of shifter cable recall
- Detailed service records
- Accident history report
- Previous owner history
- Title and registration papers
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Ford C-Max at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 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.