Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2023 Ford Maverick
The 2023 Ford Maverick has a high number of recalls and complaints, particularly concerning the power train, electrical system, and engine. With 21 recalls and 264 owner complaints, potential buyers should be cautious and ensure thorough inspections. However, some issues are related to repairs of earlier recalls, complicating assessment.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2023 Ford Maverick has 21 NHTSA recall campaigns and 264 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 3 NHTSA-tested trims.
Newest 20 recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #26V340000 Do Not Drive: Loss of Control from Control Arm Separation NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #26V104000 Trailer Lighting and Brakes May Not Function/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V685000 Engine Block Heater May Short Circuit and Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V442000 Rearview Camera Image May Not Display NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V345000 Engine Failure May Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V158000 Loss of Drive Power from Undetected Low Battery NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V133000 Software Error May Cause Loss of Drive Power NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V123000 Instrument Panel Not Illuminated/FMVSS 101 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V095000 Tail Lights May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V094000 Missing Warning for Turn Signal Failure/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V019000 Loss of Drive Power from Battery Failure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V684000 Rearview Camera Image May Freeze NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V594000 Windshield Wiper Motor May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V330000 Software Error May Cause Loss of Drive Power NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V293000 Tail Lights May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V267000 Loss of Drive Power from Undetected Low Battery NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V223000 Tires Manufactured Incorrectly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V140000 Instrument Panel Not Illuminated/FMVSS 101 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V848000 Missing Warning for Turn Signal Failure/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V380000 Engine Failure May Cause Fire NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 94 complaints
- Electrical System 78 complaints
- Engine 70 complaints
- Unknown or Other 36 complaints
- Service Brakes 29 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 28 complaints
Of the 264 complaints on file, 9 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 264 complaints, owners report 5 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Lower control arm joint failure
How to check: Inspect front lower control arm for disconnection issues.
2.5L HEV/PHEV engine fire risk
How to check: Look for signs of leaked oil or fuel vapors in engine bay.
Unexpected shift into neutral
How to check: Test drive for unplanned shifts, particularly under load.
Battery sudden failure
How to check: Test battery with a voltmeter for sudden drops.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or smoke.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or visible smoke
- 02
Initial acceleration
What to check: Monitor response and any warning lights.
Red flag: Delayed or unresponsive acceleration
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check for smooth gear shifts and engine noise.
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure stable acceleration without hesitation.
Red flag: Stalling or jerking
- 05
Braking
What to check: Feel for smooth and responsive braking action.
Red flag: Vibration or noise from brakes
- 06
Parking
What to check: Turn the steering wheel both directions fully.
Red flag: Stiffness or unusual sounds during turning
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine or transmission been repaired?
- Have you experienced electrical failures?
- Have all recalls been addressed?
- Are there any outstanding issues with the suspension?
- Have you had battery issues?
- How often do you perform maintenance?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Maintenance records
- Title and registration
- Service inspection report
- Warranty documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2023 Ford Maverick at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2023 Ford Maverick? 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.