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Service bulletins for the 2016 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.

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

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Bulletins, newest first
SSM 471612018-05-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2012-2017 Focus BEV, 2013-2016 Fusion Energi And 2013-2017 CMAX Energi vehicles equipped with a Telematics Control Unit (TCU) may exhibit inoperative remote features via My Ford Mobile app, discharged battery, incomplete user authorization and/or diagnostic trouble code (DTC) U0198 with no modem electronic serial number (ESN) displayed. To correct this condition, perform any open TCU field service actions (FSAs). If DTC U0198 remains, remove the TCU fuse for 5 minutes then reinstall prior to programming. Perform IDS Network Test and reprogram the TCU using Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) release 108.05 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.
SSM 471302018-05-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL. 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 Delphi 120 volt electric vehicle service equipment (EVSE) charge cord. To identify a Delphi EVSE the coupler on the EVSE that connects to the vehicle charge port is solid black. For information on the Delphi EVSE indicator status used for diagnostics, reference High Voltage Battery > Charging the High Voltage Battery in the Owners Guide for a 2018 Fusion Energi. Reference the Convenience Cord Light Emitting Diode (LED) Indicators chart. The Workshop Manual (WSM) is scheduled to be revised at a later date.
SSM 471292018-05-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2013-2017 C-MAX Energi, 2013-2018 Fusion Energi, 2013-2018 C-MAX/Fusion Hybrid/MKZ Hybrid may exhibit a no start with battery energy control module (BECM) diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0AE5. For 2015-2017 C-MAX Energi refer to the 2014 MY C-MAX Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 414-03A for normal diagnostics. For all vehicles, if WSM pinpoint testing for BECM DTC P0AE5 finds the DC/DC converter control module (14B227), cabin coolant heater (18K463) or A/C compressor (19703) has low high voltage circuit internal resistance, only replace the component found with low internal resistance. It is not necessary to replace the high voltage battery junction (10C666) along with the low resistance high voltage component. The WSM is currently under revision.
SSM 470802018-05-14. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.. 2010-2018 various vehicles equipped with SYNC or SYNC 3 may not function when attempting to find or use the Spotify app via AppLink. As of an update released on 1/15/2018 Spotify will no longer be supporting their AppLink integration. No repair attempts should be attempted to correct this concern.
SSM 469492018-01-29. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; EQUIPMENT. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 version 2.2 software may exhibit a blank screen after attempting to exit Valet mode. SYNC software updates are now available under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available, refer to WSM Section 415-00 and update APIM software. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 469482018-01-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM); ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some owners of 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience inoperative mobile device navigation applications. Mobile device navigation via AppLink requires SYNC 3 version 2.3 or higher for Apple iOS users. Mobile device navigation via AppLink is not currently available for Android users. SYNC software updates are now available under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If an update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update APIM software. SYNC 3 software upgrade to support these apps is not a warrantable repair per the Warranty And Policy Manual, Section 3, Warranty Coverages SYNC.
SSM 469472018-01-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; BACK OVER PREVENTION; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; LANE DEPARTURE. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may intermittently display an overhead image of a vehicle in the center of the SYNC touchscreen with no obstacle detection grids or warning chimes. SYNC may appear unresponsive when the overhead vehicle image is displayed. The vehicle image may intermittently display after shifting out of reverse or turning the vehicle off when in reverse. SYNC software updates are now available under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If an update is available, refer to WSM Section 415-00 and update the APIM software. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 469302018-01-29. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Some 2016-2018 Ford or Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in transport mode. This is due to the power saving features enabled while in transport mode and is beneficial for battery life to keep the vehicle in transport mode until the vehicle is prepped for sale. To prevent a SYNC system lockup during transport mode deactivation, follow the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure allowing time for the SYNC system to complete all tasks such as fully booting up or powering down and shutting off before moving to the next step of the procedure. If the vehicle exhibits a blank screen or SYNC symptoms after transport mode deactivation, refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for normal diagnosis. The SYNC version can be confirmed via OASIS.
SSM 469002018-01-29. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM); ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some vehicles may exhibit a no start condition with an illuminated malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) and a DTC P161A after PCM replacement. This may be due to the parameter reset procedure not being properly completed. To clear this DTC, use the Ford Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) service tool or Ford J2534 Diagnostic Software, select - Toolbox - Body - Security - PATS Functions - Parameter Reset. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the procedure. This procedure will transfer the existing Key ID information between the modules without the need of having 2 programmed PATS keys present. There is no need to program keys when the PCM is going to be replaced. Additional information can be found in the Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 419-01. Missing or lost keys are not warrantable.
17-22182018-01-29. Service bulletin. STRUCTURE. Some 2013-2018 Escape, Focus and C-Max vehicles may exhibit a water stained headliner after the vehicle has experienced a water leak from areas such as the roof opening panel, fixed glass, roof rails and roof ditch mouldings. Follow the procedure below to remove the water stains from the headliner after the water leak has been repaired. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
SSM 468912017-12-14. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE; EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.. Some 2016 Escape and Focus vehicles equipped with a front control display interface module (FCDIM) may exhibit the inability to store AM/FM presets and/or preset buttons work erratically. Engineering is currently investigating this concern. Until a new service procedure and/or parts are available use the pre-set buttons in the following manner. To store/program a new station for a pre-set location, press and hold desired button for 3 seconds. To select a previously programmed pre-set location, perform a quick press and release of the button. Refer to Workshop Manual (WSM) Section, 415-00 for normal diagnostics. Continue to monitor OASIS for updates.
SSM 468612017-12-14. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may intermittently display an overhead image of a vehicle in the center of the SYNC touchscreen with no obstacle detection grids or warning chimes. SYNC may appear unresponsive when the overhead vehicle image is displayed. The vehicle image may intermittently display after shifting out of reverse or turning the vehicle off when in reverse. To recover the screen, perform any one of the following actions: touch the SYNC screen anywhere outside the vehicle image pop-up box, safely shift the vehicle into and out of reverse, or perform a complete ignition cycle (key off, open and close the driver's door then wait 5 minutes). If this does not resolve the concern, do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating, monitor OASIS for updates.
SSM 468602017-12-14. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM). Some 2016-2018 Ford or Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in transport mode. This is due to the power saving features enabled while in transport mode and is beneficial for battery life to keep the vehicle in transport mode until the vehicle is prepped for sale. To prevent a SYNC system lockup during transport mode deactivation, follow the Workshop Manual (WSM) procedure allowing time for the SYNC system to complete all tasks such as fully booting up or powering down and shutting off before moving to the next step of the procedure. If the vehicle exhibits a blank screen or SYNC symptoms after transport mode deactivation, refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for normal diagnosis. The SYNC version can be confirmed via OASIS.
17B282017-10-21. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY. Certain 2015 Model Year Flex and Taurus, 2015-2016 Model Year C-MAX, and MKS, and 2016 Model Year Edge, Fusion, MKZ, and Transit Connect Vehicles - Electronic Throttle Body Replacement
SSM 468482017-10-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some owners of 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may experience inoperative mobile device navigation applications. Mobile device navigation via AppLink requires SYNC 3 version 2.3 or higher for Apple iOS users. Mobile device navigation via AppLink is not currently available for Android users. SYNC 3 software upgrades to support these apps are not currently available, do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating, monitor OASIS for updates. SYNC 3 software upgrade to support these apps is not a warrantable repair per the Warranty And Policy Manual, Section 3, Warranty Coverages SYNC.
SSM 468342017-10-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with SYNC 3 may exhibit an intermittent blue or black screen. Check for SYNC software update under the OASIS Tab SYNC selection. If update is available refer to WSM, Section 415-00 and update APIM software. After Installation Complete pop-up appears, remove USB flash drive and install into IDS tool to update Ford database. Perform a complete ignition cycle by turning the key off for 5 minutes which is critical for a successful installation. If no updates are available or a blue or black screen is present after an update refer to WSM, Section 415-00 for diagnosis or SYNC 3 intermittent blank screen GSB for tips. For claiming, use causal part 14G371 and applicable labor operations in section 10 of the SLTS manual.
SSM 468132017-10-21. Service bulletin. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 version 2.2 software may exhibit a blank screen after attempting to exit Valet mode. To recover the screen, perform a complete ignition cycle (key off, open and close the driver's door then wait 5 minutes). The SYNC software version of the vehicle can be confirmed via OASIS. Do not attempt any repairs at this time. Engineering is investigating; Monitor OASIS for updates.
16B35-S12017-08-01. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM); ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE. Certain 2016-2017 Model Year C-MAX and Fusion Energi Vehicles - Reprogram Powertrain Control Module
SSM 461022017-08-01. Service bulletin. SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR; SEAT BELTS. Some vehicles may have a concern where the safety belt retractor webbing does not extract from the stowed position or exhibits excessive pressure on the occupant during use. This may be due to a normal condition which happens when the seatbelt retracts at a high rate of speed. The Workshop Manual, Section 501-20A General Procedures has been updated with a locked seatbelt retractor releasing procedure.
SSM 460982017-08-01. Service bulletin. POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY. 2013-2017 Fusion, MKZ and C-Max Hybrid and Energi vehicles equipped with HF35 eCVT transaxles may have literature published that lists either a 2.56 or 2.57 axle ratio. For service and parts ordering purposes, both are the same. The difference in the displayed ratio originates from rounding differences between systems which results in the discrepancy.
SSM 460852017-08-01. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE); ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OTHER FUEL TYPES:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSES/LINES/PIPING/FITTINGS; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY; ENGINE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV); ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN. The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic throttle bodies (ETBs). The ETC_ACT and ETC_DSD PIDs should not used to diagnose possible ETB concerns. The IDS has a limited refresh rate when reading these PIDs and cannot display quickly enough to validate a concern. The PCM automatically monitors these inputs more accurately and will set diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) when appropriate. Using these PIDs for diagnostics will lead to inaccurate results and improper ETB replacements. If a concern is intermittent and no DTCs are present, refer to historical DTCs and the PC/ED, Section 3 No DTCs Present Index chart for further information.
SSM 460762017-08-01. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT; ENGINE. Some 2016 Model Year Fusion, MKZ and C-MAX Hybrid Electric Vehicles(HEV) vehicles equipped with 2.0L DOHC Gas/Electric engines may exhibit MIL On with Diagnostic Trouble Code P0137(O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 2) in Powertrain Control Module(PCM) memory and U3003 (Battery Voltage) in Battery Energy Control Module(BECM) memory due to low battery voltage. Perform Battery diagnostic tests referenced in Workshop Manual Section 414-01 Battery, Mounting and Cables-Diagnosis and Testing. After repairs for low voltage concern are repaired, clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes. If DTC P0137 and U3003 do not repeat return vehicle to the Customer. If DTC P0137 repeats perform Powertrain Control and Emissions Manual(PCED) diagnostic DW. Engineering is currently investigating this concern.
SSM 460732017-08-01. Service bulletin. EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2017 Escape, MKC, Fiesta, F150, Expedition, Navigator, Mustang, Transit, Focus, C-Max, MKX, Taurus, MKS, Flex, MKT, and Edge and 2017 Explorer, Fusion, MKZ, Super Duty, Transit Connect and Continental vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 might exhibit a blank screen or other various SYNC symptoms only when the vehicle is in Transport mode. Engineering is aware of this possibility and it is considered normal due to the power saving features enabled while in transportation mode. It is beneficial to extended battery life to keep the vehicle in Transport Mode until the vehicle is prepped for sale. If the vehicle should exhibit a blank screen or other SYNC symptoms after it has been taken out of Transport mode, refer to Workshop Manual, Section 415-00 for normal diagnosis. The SYNC version can be confirmed via OASIS.
SSM 460532017-08-01. Service bulletin. WHEELS; SERVICE BRAKES. Some 2017 Focus and C-Max vehicles built on or after 8/1/2016 may exhibit a growl or rubbing noise from the wheel assembly after pre-delivery inspection has been performed to remove the brake rotor covers. This may be due to the brake caliper spring becoming dislodged and rubbing the wheel. The Brake Rotor Cover Removal Process on PTS states tools are not to be used when tearing/removing the rotor covers which could damage the wheel or dislodge brake components. In addition, turn each tire/wheel by hand after the rotor cover removal to verify there is no contact/rubbing between the brake caliper components and wheels.
SSM 460482017-08-01. Service bulletin. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Some 2016-2017 Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with SYNC 3 may have DTCs U3000:04, B108E:12 and/or U1A00:87 present in the APIM. If these DTCs are present and no other symptoms are reported by the customer, then clear the DTCs and retest. If the DTC(s) do not return then no further repairs should be attempted. If one or more DTCs return as current faults and/or the customer reports other symptoms, then refer to Workshop Manual, Section 415-00 for further diagnostics. The SYNC version can be confirmed via OASIS.

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