What kind of gas does a 2013 Ford Cmax take?
In brief, the 2013 Ford C-Max runs on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. This applies to both the C-Max Hybrid and the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid, and the vehicle is not diesel-powered or flex-fuel capable.
Model variants and fuel requirements
The 2013 C-Max was offered in two main configurations: Hybrid and Energi (the plug-in hybrid). Both versions use regular unleaded gasoline as their primary fuel, while the Energi can also rely on its high-voltage battery for extended electric driving. The underlying fuel rule remains the same across versions: gasoline, not diesel, and not E85 flex-fuel.
Hybrid vs Energi fuel specifics
The C-Max Hybrid pairs a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor and runs on regular unleaded gasoline. The C-Max Energi adds a larger battery and plug-in capability to extend electric range, but it still requires regular unleaded gasoline for operation beyond electric driving.
Before you fill up, keep these guidelines in mind to ensure proper fueling across both variants:
- Fuel type: Regular unleaded gasoline.
- Minimum octane: 87 (AKI).
- Flex-fuel compatibility: Not designed for E85 or diesel; use standard gasoline only.
- Premium fuel: Not required for normal operation; higher-octane gasoline is optional and may not improve performance or efficiency.
These guidelines cover the general fueling rules for the 2013 C-Max, including the plug-in Energi variant. Always refer to the owner's manual for any region-specific recommendations or updates.
Summary
The 2013 Ford C-Max, whether in Hybrid or Energi form, uses regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum 87 octane rating. It is not a diesel or flex-fuel vehicle, and while the Energi can be charged for extended electric operation, gasoline remains the required fuel for typical driving. For the latest guidance, consult the owner's manual or a Ford dealership.
