Used Ford C-MAX: Shifter cable bushing degradation (2013–2018)

C-MAX Used-buyer risk

Verify with official recall databases, service records, a mechanic inspection, and local market data before relying on this summary.

Short answer

The bushing attaching the shifter cable to the transmission can degrade or detach, so the gear the driver selects may not match the gear actually engaged.

What to check

The bushing attaching the shifter cable to the transmission can degrade or detach, so the gear the driver selects may not match the gear actually engaged. This is documented in NHTSA campaign 22V413000, an official safety recall.

Before buying

  • Ask whether campaign 22V413000 was completed for this VIN
  • Confirm the gear indicated on the display matches the gear actually engaged in every position
  • Always set the parking brake — a vehicle that shows Park may not be in Park if this bushing has failed

A recall confirms an identified defect and required remedy for the covered vehicles — it does not by itself tell you whether the remedy was completed on this specific VIN. Always confirm directly.

Safety & recall notes

Confirm NHTSA campaign 22V413000 status for the specific VIN before buying; an open recall is normally repaired by the dealer at no cost.

Buyer inspection checklist

  • Ask whether campaign 22V413000 was completed for this VIN
  • Confirm the gear indicated on the display matches the gear actually engaged in every position
  • Always set the parking brake — a vehicle that shows Park may not be in Park if this bushing has failed

Red flags

  • The vehicle rolls after being shifted into Park
  • Vague or inconsistent shifter feel between positions

Keep going

Buyer path

Source & evidence notes

  • NHTSA campaign 22V413000, official record, source_id APPLIED. Not an owner-complaint pattern or manufacturer communication.