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Service bulletins for the 2015 Ford C-max

A bulletin is a manufacturer's communication to its dealers, as NHTSA indexes it. The summary is NHTSA's. The document is the manufacturer's: read it at NHTSA. A bulletin is not a recall, and listing a model year does not mean every vehicle of it is concerned.

98 on file from NHTSA, as of 2026-10-19.

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By component

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Bulletins, newest first
SSM 488582020-06-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2012-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with a TCU may exhibit an inoperative remote start with a 'Vehicle Failed To Start' message when using MyFord Mobile/Ford Pass/Lincoln Way mobile applications. The cellular cloud systems will only allow two remote start requests from the MyFord Mobile/Ford Pass/Lincoln Way apps without a vehicle drive event occurring. If a third remote start request is received, a Vehicle Failed To Start message will be displayed quickly in the mobile app. Once the vehicle is driven, the remote start counter is reset and will allow remote start commands to be sent from the mobile app. If the remote start system is not functioning using the key fob, refer to Workshop Manual (WSM) Section 303-06 for further diagnosis.
SSM 486192020-04-02. Service bulletin. UNKNOWN OR OTHER; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. SSM 48619 - Various Vehicles - Perimeter Alarm Armed And Original Vehicle Keys Cannot Be Accessed to Enter Vehicle - CAN Protection Strategy Some 2013-2016 Model Year Vehicles may exhibit a concern in which the Perimeter Alarm is active and the original keys cannot be accessed to disable the perimeter alarm. This concern would most often occur when a customer loses keys and the dealership is attempting to program new keys to the vehicle. The Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 419-01A Perimeter Anti-Theft Alarm - System Operation and Component Description has been updated to inform of the Controller Area Network (CAN) Protection Strategy. Follow the procedure outlined to prevent replacement of the Body Control Module (BCM) on CAN Protection Strategy equipped vehicles when original keys are lost and perimeter alarm is active. Refer to the WSM for further detail on the CAN Protection Strategy. Lost keys and replacement of BCM for lost keys is non-warrantable.
SSM 485982020-03-03. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2020 Fusion Hybrid/MKZ Hybrid vehicles may exhibit a MIL with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0340 and/or P0344. This may occur due to excessive moisture build up in the engine oil. Excess moisture occurs when the vehicle is driven short distances and/or less than 6,000 combined miles per year. To correct the condition, replace the camshaft position sensor (CMP) and change the engine oil. Advise the customer to perform more frequent oil changes and allow the internal combustion engine to reach operating temperature when running to prevent reoccurrence. Refer to the owners guide - maintenance - engine oil check - operating in cold climates and short driving cycles.
TSB 19-23912020-02-03. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Some 2013-2016 Fusion, MKZ and C-MAX vehicles equipped with an HF35 transmission and built on or before 15-Aug-2015 may exhibit a thumping/rubbing or grinding noise coming from the transmission. The noise may be present in all gear ranges including neutral when the vehicle is moving but will not be present when the vehicle is stationary or in park. This may be due to the differential side bearings and/or the transfer shaft and housing. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure to install either a transfer shaft kit or a remanufactured transmission assembly.
SSM 484232020-01-08. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Some 2015-2020 Ford and Lincoln vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0011, P0012, P0014, P0015, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0021, P0022, P0024 and/or P0025. This may be due to small debris causing the VCT solenoid to stick. Before attempting any component diagnosis or replacement of the VCT solenoid, refer to Powertrain Control and Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) pinpoint test HK11 to cycle the affected VCT solenoid 10 times to attempt to clear the debris. For claiming, use causal part 6M280 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 483012019-12-05. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 20132017 C-MAX Energi, 20172018 C-MAX Hybrid, 20132020 Fusion Energi and 2017-2020 Fusion/MKZ Hybrid vehicles may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with any of the following diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs): P0496, P1450, P04ED, P04EF, P04EE, P2450, P2451. When performing pinpoint test (PPT) HX in the Powertrain Controls and Emission Diagnosis (PC/ED) Manual for the referenced DTCs, incorrect results may be obtained due to an internal powertrain control module (PCM) software conflict. In order to make sure the PPT provides accurate results, immediately prior to step HX22, make sure the fuel door is fully latched and then press the fuel door release button. Keep the door open while completing HX22, then fully latch again, prior to continuing the remainder of testing
SSM 481302019-09-06. Service bulletin. VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR; VISIBILITY. Some 2010-2020 vehicles may exhibit distorted glass with a subtle orange peel pattern or streaking etched into the surface. This is caused by hydrofluoric acid which is used in some car wash solutions as a cleaning agent. Hydrofluoric acid can attack the glass and cause visual distortion and/or discoloration on the outer surface which cannot be removed by further cleaning. If this type of distortion is found, inspect the area of the glass that is covered by the cowl and/or molding. The portion of glass that is covered by the cowl or molding will not be affected by the acid. Hydrofluoric acid damage is not a defect in material or workmanship and is not a warrantable condition.
SSM 481232019-09-06. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. For Ford and Lincoln vehicles that require positive or negative battery terminal replacement, it is not necessary to replace the complete battery cable harness (14300 and 14301) for this concern. Positive battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-AA and negative battery cable clamp BT4Z-14450-BA are available for this type of repair. Do not cut or shorten the battery cable, instead carefully remove the affected battery cable clamp and clean the cable end as necessary to preserve wire length. Some rework may be necessary for some vehicle environments. Bend the new positive battery cable clamp as needed and crimp it to the existing battery cable. Make sure to use heat shrink tubing over the battery cable to battery cable clamp connection. Obtain the heat shrink tube locally.
TSB 19-22072019-07-03. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; POWER TRAIN. Some 2013-2017 C-Max/Fusion/MKZ Hybrid/Energi vehicles may exhibit an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P1450, P0456, P0457, P04EE and/or P04EF. This may be due to the sealing capability of the canister purge valve. To correct the condition, follow the Service Procedure steps to update the PCM software and replace the canister purge valve.
SSM 479762019-06-07. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission it is imperative that the converter pilot hub be greased with Motorcraft Multi-Purpose Grease Spray XL-5-A even if grease was not applied from the factory. Also verify that the engine/transmission alignment dowel pins are present as well as the engine crankshaft dowel pin, if equipped, when installing the transmission. Failure to adequately lubricate the converter hub greatly increases the likelihood of the flexplate cracking in the future. Missing dowels may cause a misalignment issue also resulting in a premature failure. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 307-01.
SSM 478502019-05-07. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER. Some 2013-2019 vehicles equipped with a EVDC air conditioning (A/C) compressor may exhibit poor A/C performance/improper climate function and/or a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P06A0 in the powertrain control module (PCM). To support the proper diagnosis of this compressor, the EVDC control valve tester has been developed and is available from Rotunda (339-EVDC100). A tester has been provided to each U.S. dealership free of charge with shipments completed 19-Apr-2019 (reference EFC07013 on FMCDealer.com). This tester will help reduce the potential for misdiagnosis and unnecessary compressor replacement. Make sure that this tester is used for warranty repairs and document the test results in the Technician Comments field. Refer to the Rotunda catalog for a video and user manual which provide detailed operating instructions.
SSM 477902019-04-08. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; ENGINE. Some 2013-2019 Fusion/MKZ and 2013-2018 C-Max vehicles with 2.0L HEV/PHEV engine may exhibit multiple drivability or electrical concerns with one or more diagnostic trouble codes, being the most common P26C3, P26CA, P26D0, P2800, P2802, U019F and U0284. On Fusion/MKZ inspect connectors C146, C1651, C1812, C168C, C1717 and C134 for signs of water entry or corrosion. On C-Max, inspect connectors C134, C140, C144, C1651, C1717 and C1812 and service as necessary. NOTE: Connector C1717 is only equipped on PHEVs for both Fusion and C-Max.
SSM 478752019-04-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2014-2019 Escape, 2014-2018 C-MAX, Focus, and Transit Connect vehicles not equipped with an auto start/stop system may exhibit an inability to program and/or no electrical power after installation of a service part body control module (BCM). Inspect the BCM for the presence of fuse F88. If fuse 88 is missing, install a 25 amp fuse and then re-evaluate the concern. If fuse 88 is installed in a vehicle with an auto start/stop system, the vehicle may exhibit concerns where the radio is turning off during an auto start/stop event and the instrument panel cluster (IPC) back lighting slowly goes dim during auto start/stop events.
SSM 477902019-04-01. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2013-2019 Fusion/MKZ and 2013-2018 C-Max vehicles with 2.0L HEV/PHEV engine may exhibit multiple drivability or electrical concerns with one or more diagnostic trouble codes, being the most common P26C3, P26CA, P26D0, P2800, P2802, U019F and U0284. On Fusion/MKZ inspect connectors C146, C1651, C1812, C168C, C1717 and C134 for signs of water entry or corrosion. On C-Max, inspect connectors C134, C140, C144, C1651, C1717 and C1812 and service as necessary. NOTE: Connector C1717 is only equipped on PHEVs for both Fusion and C-Max.
SSM 477652019-03-04. Service bulletin. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE. Some 2013-2018 C-MAX, 2013-2019 Fusion Energi, and 2017-2019 Fusion/MKZ Hybrid vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P04B5. This may be due to inadvertent actuation of the fuel door release button by the customer when exiting the vehicle. If the fuel filler door is not fully closed after a refueling event or the fuel filler door is open from erroneously pressing the fuel door release button, a message displays during the third drive cycle to indicate the fuel filler door is not closed and the DTC sets. Before performing Workshop Manual (WSM) diagnosis, consult the customer about the potential for accidental fuel door actuation and explain the need to fully latch the fuel door after every refueling event. Malfunction Indicator Lamp will turn off after (3) drive cycles with fuel filler door closed.
SSM 477492019-03-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT. Some 2012-2019 Vehicles may require repairs to the Smartlink system. Smartlink is a Ford Licensed Accessory which has a warranty provided by the accessory manufacturer. Warranty replacement parts for Smartlink that are ordered through Ford are not reimbursable through the Ford Motor Company warranty system. Please see the Warranty and Policy Manual for further information on Ford Licensed Accessories.
SSM 477102019-03-04. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2014-2015 Escape, 2015 C-Max and Focus vehicles equipped with integrated remote start may exhibit an illuminated MIL with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0116 in the powertrain control module (PCM) immediately following a remote start event. Vehicles may also display a warning message stating Engine Coolant Over Temperature. This condition may occur when remote start is used and the vehicle is allowed to time out (engine shuts off). Reprogram the body control module (BCM) using the latest software version of the appropriate Ford diagnostic scan tool. For claiming, use causal part 12A648 and applicable labor operations in Section 10 of the Service Labor Time Standards (SLTS) Manual.
SSM 477032019-03-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL. Some 2014-2019 Escape, 2014-2018 C-MAX,Focus, and Transit Connect vehicles may exhibit a concern of not able to program and/or no electrical power after installation of a service part Body Control Module(BCM). Inspect the BCM for the presence of fuse F88. If the fuse is missing, install the correct size replacement fuse as outlined in the Wiring Manual and then re-evaluate the concern.
TSB 18-23732019-03-04. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2012-2018 Focus Electric, 2013-2017 C-Max Energi, and 2013-2019 Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) may exhibit the high voltage (HV) battery failing to charge while connected to the second Generation 120-volt electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE) charge cord. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
TSB 18-23612019-03-04. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; SEATS. Some 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2019 Escape/Fusion/MKZ, 2015-2018 Focus, 2015-2019 Edge/F150/MKC/Mustang, 2016-2018 MKX, 2016-2019 Explorer, 2017 Super Duty, 2018-2019 EcoSport/Expedition, and 2019 Nautilus vehicles may experience seat pan looseness, lateral movement, or clunk/thump noise on turns. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
SSM 476492019-01-07. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. 2013 2018 C-Max, Fusion, and MKZ Hybrid vehicles using SOBDM-C module connectors do not require electrical/dielectric grease. If used it may induce module communication concerns. Codes present may be U0293 and a P0AA6. The Workshop Shop Manual (WSM) does not state to use it on these module connectors.
TSB 18-22822018-12-03. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2013-2017 Fusion Energi and C-Max Energi vehicles may exhibit an illuminated MIL with DTC P0C27 and/or P0C28. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
TSB 18-23282018-11-19. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN. Some 2013-2016 Fusion, MKZ and C-Max vehicles equipped with an HF35 transmission and built on or before 15-Aug-2015 may exhibit a thumping/rubbing or grinding noise coming from the transmission. The noise may be present in all gear ranges including neutral when the vehicle is moving but will not be present when the vehicle is stationary or in park. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
SSM 474282018-09-10. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. Some 2013-2018 Fusion Energi, 2012-2018 Focus Electric and 2013-2017 C-MAX Energi vehicles equipped with a TCU built on or before 11-Oct-2017 may exhibit a discharged battery, inoperative remote features via MyFord Mobile app, incomplete user authorization and/or accessory protocol interface module (APIM) DTC U0198 with no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition, perform any open TCU field service actions (FSAs). If U0198 DTC still remains, remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall. Reprogram the TCU using IDS or Ford J2534 Diagnostic Software (FJDS) release 110.03 or higher. An internet connection is required. Calibration files may also be obtained at www.motorcraftservice.com. For claiming, use causal part 14G229 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual
tsb18-22162018-09-10. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY; EQUIPMENT. Some 2012-2018 Focus Electric, 2013-2017 C-Max Energi, and 2013-2018 Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) may exhibit the high voltage (HV) battery failing to charge while connected to the second Generation 120-volt electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE) charge cord. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.

The summaries are NHTSA's. Each bulletin's page links NHTSA's copy of the manufacturer's document.