Turbo failure from oil-feed contamination
Whining under load, blue or white smoke, rising oil use, or a sudden loss of boost after it had been driving normally.
Should I buy a 2011–2014 Ford C-MAX 1.6 Diesel Manual?
Considering a 2011–2014 Ford C-MAX 1.6 Diesel Manual? This guide explains the problems associated with this model and what to examine when viewing one. Condition, maintenance history and previous repairs matter, so judge the exact car on evidence rather than badge appeal.
At a glance
We have detailed information drawn from more than 2 billion data points and an extensive list of potential faults for this vehicle. Below is a sample of three. Run a bespoke report by entering your vehicle details to see the full list.
This guide explains the model. Your registration tells the real story.
Enter your registration to see the ownership outlook for the exact car you're considering.
Or enter the vehicle manually
Common Ford C-MAX (2011–2014) problems
DPF blockage and additive-system faults
Engine warning lights, reduced power, frequent fan running, poor fuel economy, or repeated regeneration behaviour after short journeys.
EGR valve clogging and sticking
Flat acceleration, uneven running at low revs, smoke under load, or an engine-management light with reduced performance.
Ford C-MAX buying questions
Is a 2011–2014 Ford C-MAX worth buying?
It can be, but only if the individual car backs it up. For the 2011–2014 Ford C-MAX 1.6 Diesel Manual, treat model-level patterns as viewing priorities and let condition, history and inspection evidence decide.
What common problems affect the Ford C-MAX (2011–2014)?
The problem cards above list the model-level checks for this guide. Read them as priorities for inspection and paperwork review, not proof that every example will have those faults.
What should I check before buying a Ford C-MAX?
Look for evidence, not just assurances: MOT advisories, service history, repair invoices, warning lights, fluid leaks, tyre and brake condition, and how the car behaves on a proper test drive. And of course, look at your personalised Should I Buy This Car? report, outlining a full list of common issues in detail, a personalised road test, a plain-English explanation and a MotorIQ score.
A model guide is useful. A report on its registration is better.
The guide above gives you the model-level pattern. A personalised MotorIQ report checks the registration-specific record and turns it into an ownership view before you commit.
Or enter the vehicle manually