2015 FORD C-MAX — Problems, Recalls & Safety Data

NHTSA Complaint Update / Addendum I am submitting this update to my existing complaint regarding Safety Recall 25S49 (NHTSA Recall No. 25V695) for my 2015 Ford C-MAX Hybrid (VIN: [XXX] ). Ford Motor Company has now formally stated, in writing through the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs, that: • The rearview camera defect may cause a blank or distorted image while in reverse • The condition increases crash risk • Parts are not currently available in sufficient quantities • No repair will be available until Q2 2026 or later • No loaner vehicle or rental reimbursement is authorized • Owners are expected to continue operating affected vehicles indefinitely Due to this recall and lack of remedy, my vehicle was removed from service on October 14, 2025. As of December 29, 2025, the vehicle has been unusable for 76 days, resulting in $2,209.32 in documented lost income based on historical earnings of $29.07 per day. Ford has acknowledged the safety defect but is offering no interim solution while delaying the repair for potentially over six months. I am concerned this creates an unreasonable safety and economic burden on affected owners and may represent a broader issue impacting many consumers. I am requesting that NHTSA review Ford’s prolonged delay, lack of interim remedy, and refusal to provide alternative transportation while a known safety defect remains unresolved. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding NHTSA Recall 25V695 / Ford Recall 25S49 on my 2015 Ford C-MAX (VIN: 1FAD*************). Ford Motor Company’s recall notice dated October 2025 states that the rearview backup camera may display a blank or distorted image, increasing the risk of a crash. Ford further confirms that parts are not available and that there is no estimated timeline for repair. Due to this acknowledged safety defect, my vehicle was removed from service on October 14, 2025 following a rearview camera inspection. I rely on this vehicle for income-producing transportation services. Prior to removal from service, my vehicle generated $1,221 over 42 days, resulting in a documented daily average of $29.07 per day. As of today, the vehicle has been unavailable for 71 days, resulting in a verified loss of income totaling $2,063.97, which continues to increase by $29.07 per day. I received the official recall letter on November 7, 2025, yet Ford has provided: No repair parts No estimated repair date No interim remedy No loaner or rental assistance Despite multiple contacts with Ford and the Department of Transportation Vehicle Safety Hotline, there is still no remedy. I am requesting that NHTSA review the effectiveness of this recall and Ford’s failure to provide a timely remedy for an acknowledged safety defect that is causing ongoing financial harm.

There has been no accident yet but this is a safety hazard. My vehicle is under 100,000 miles and the part should be replaced by the dealership. The rear cross traffic assistance sensor may be damaged. It just stopped working this week.

There has been no accident yet but this is a safety hazard. My vehicle is under 100,000 miles and the part should be replaced by the dealership. The rear cross traffic assistance sensor may be damaged. It just stopped working this week.

When I went to the garage, I noticed my brake lights were on, but the ignition was not. I tested the car, it started without me stepping on the brake. I could also move the car out of park without stepping on the brakes. I thought the switch on the brake pedal had failed and so I took it to my mechanic for replacement. The mechanic tested the switch and found it okay. However, he had seen the same problem in other Fords (Recall # 22V-011 or 22S02) and it involved the Pedal Stop Bumper deteriorating. The recall indicated it would replace only the Pedal Stop Bumper. My mechanic said that replacement part wasn't available to them. So, I took it to the dealer hoping that since I had the same problem, I was included in the recall. My C-Max was not listed. They said that that the Pedal Stop Bumper replacement part wasn't available for my car, and that they would have to replace the entire brake pedal system for an outrageous $1400. I had little choice, and so I agreed with the hope that Ford would provide some relief. They didn't. Instead, they said hang onto the receipts and maybe someday there will be a recall, and I'll be reimbursed. So now I'm writing you. Clearly, this was considered to be a safety hazard in the other Ford products, and I believe it to be exactly the same in mine: brake lights always on are a safety hazard as well as being able to shift the car out of park or start the car without depressing the brake. Moreover, the battery will run down unless I disconnect it at night. Basically, my car is unsafe to drive without this repair.