How big is the cargo space on a Ford C-Max?
In brief, the Ford C-Max offers about 24.5 cubic feet (roughly 695 liters) of cargo space behind the rear seats in its standard/hybrid variants, expanding to about 52.6 cubic feet (approximately 1,490 liters) with the rear seats folded. The C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid has a smaller trunk due to the battery, about 19 cubic feet (around 538 liters) behind the rear seats and roughly 43 cubic feet (about 1,216 liters) with the rear seats folded. Figures can vary slightly by year, trim, and seat configuration.
Cargo space by variant
Below are typical specifications for the main C-Max configurations commonly seen in markets where the model was sold. Values are rounded and reflect the interior volume behind and with the rear seats in use.
- C-Max (gasoline) and C-Max Hybrid: Behind the rear seats ≈ 24.5 cubic feet (≈ 695 liters); with rear seats folded ≈ 52.6 cubic feet (≈ 1,490 liters).
- C-Max Energi (plug-in hybrid): Behind the rear seats ≈ 19 cubic feet (≈ 538 liters); with rear seats folded ≈ 43 cubic feet (≈ 1,216 liters).
Notes: These figures are approximate and can vary by model year, trim level, and whether the cargo area floor is modified by equipment such as a spare tire placement or battery layout in Energi variants.
Practical considerations for maximizing space
To make the most of cargo space, owners typically fold the rear seats to create a flat load floor, remove items like cargo covers when loading tall objects, and consider roof racks for additional storage when needed. The Energi plug-in’s battery occupying part of the trunk footprint can limit usable space behind the rear seats, though folded-seat capacity remains substantial for larger loads.
Summary
The Ford C-Max family provides about 24.5 cu ft of cargo room behind the rear seats in its standard/hybrid versions and about 52.6 cu ft with the seats folded. The plug-in Energi variant offers around 19 cu ft behind the rear seats and roughly 43 cu ft with the rear seats down, with variations by year and configuration. For precise current specifications, check the exact model year’s brochure or Ford’s official specs.
What is the common problem with Ford C-Max?
Common Ford C-Max problems include issues with the 12v battery drain, suspension components like worn struts and bushings, electrical glitches such as failing parking sensors and door locks, and problems with the air conditioning system (AC). Hybrid models may experience battery degradation, while certain gasoline engines can have timing belt or phase regulator issues, and some diesel engines may face problems with the exhaust gas cleaning system and particulate filter.
This video discusses common problems and issues with the Ford C-Max: 59sAutoProblemsYouTube · Aug 30, 2022
Electrical and battery issues
- 12v battery drain: The 12v battery can discharge quickly if the car sits for an extended period.
- Parking sensors: Sensors can fail due to dirt and corrosion, which may disable the entire system.
- Door locks: Moisture can cause issues with the door lock mechanisms.
- Instrument panel: Older models may experience failures with erratic pointers and warning lights, often fixable by resoldering contacts.
Engine and exhaust problems
- Timing belt/regulators: Some gasoline engines, particularly the 1.6L, can have issues with timing belts or phase regulators.
- Engine oil leaks: Older 1.8L engines may have high oil consumption, and some 2.0L diesel engines can experience oil leaks from oil seals.
- Exhaust system: Issues can arise with the exhaust gas cleaning system and particulate filter, especially in diesel versions.
Suspension and steering
- Suspension noise: A creaking noise when driving slowly can indicate failed front shock absorber top mounts.
- Steering wheel vibrations: These can be caused by unbalanced tires, worn suspension components (like ball joints or tie rods), or bent wheels.
- Anti-roll bars: These can start to knock over time and may need replacement.
Climate control and air conditioning
- Air conditioning (AC): The AC system's radiator can corrode and lose tightness.
- Heating: Diesel versions have been criticized for an inefficient heating system.
Other common problems
- Hybrid battery: Hybrid models can experience battery degradation, leading to reduced electric range over time.
- Brakes: Premature brake pad and rotor wear can occur, and some models may have issues with the rear caliper mounting brackets, leading to a noise when reversing.
- Boot release button: The external boot release can be vulnerable to water damage.
- Liftgate: The auto liftgate can be expensive to repair due to the cost of the lifting rods.
What car compares to a Ford C-Max?
It's larger than the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer and the Renault Grand Scenic. The C-Max measures 4,379mm long, 2,067mm wide and 1,610mm tall, placing it in a similar category to something like a Vauxhall Meriva or a Volkswagen Golf SV.
Why did Ford discontinue C-Max?
Ford is dropping the Grand C-Max, shown, because of a sharp drop in demand as customers switch to SUVs and crossovers. Ford confirmed it will end production of its C-Max minivan at its factory in Saarlouis, Germany, but said the plant will stay open with further investment in the Focus car that is also built there.
How big is the cargo space on a C-Max?
The hybrid has a maximum cargo volume of 52.6 cu ft (1,490 L) with rear seats folded flat, and 24.5 cu ft (690 L) in the cargo area behind the rear seats, providing more room than the regular Prius liftback, but less cargo room than the Prius V, which provides 67.3 cu ft (1,910 L) with the rear seats folded.
