IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2012–2017 Ford B-Max (B299)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2012–2017 Ford B-Max (B299). 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

PowerShift Gearbox Judder and Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The dry-clutch 6DCT250 PowerShift automatic is notoriously problematic. Juddering on pull-away, hesitation during gear changes and eventual clutch or mechatronic failure are common, especially on cars used in stop-start urban traffic.

Most affected: 1.6 Petrol Powershift

Estimated cost: £800-£2,500Affects: 2012–2017Often appears around: 30,000-60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Judder when pulling away
  • •Hesitation on gear changes
  • •Transmission malfunction warning

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive in slow traffic from cold and fully warm
  • ✓Check for smooth reverse engagement
  • ✓Ask for proof of regular gearbox fluid changes

1.0 EcoBoost Wet Belt and Coolant Leaks

SeriousEngine

The 1.0 EcoBoost engine uses an oil-bath timing belt that degrades over time. The cooling system is also prone to leaks from the expansion tank and hoses. Left unfixed, coolant loss can lead to overheating and cylinder head damage.

Most affected: 1.0 EcoBoost

Estimated cost: £400-£4,000Affects: 2012–2017Often appears around: 40,000-80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Low oil pressure warning
  • •Engine rattle on start-up
  • •Low coolant warning
  • •White smoke from exhaust

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Demand full service history with correct Ford-spec oil
  • ✓Check whether the wet belt has been replaced
  • ✓Inspect coolant level and look for staining

Sliding Door Mechanism and Sensor Faults

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The innovative sliding rear doors can fail to lock properly, trigger dashboard warnings, or become difficult to close. Faulty door latches, sensor failures or worn wiring in the door channels are the usual culprits.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £100-£300Affects: 2012–2017

Typical symptoms

  • •Door will not lock properly
  • •Dashboard door ajar warning
  • •Sliding door jamming or scraping noises

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Open and close both sliding doors repeatedly
  • ✓Check that all doors lock and unlock from the fob
  • ✓Inspect the door rails for debris or damage

Electrical Gremlins and Battery Drain

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The B-Max can develop battery drain issues especially if left unused for a few days. General electrical gremlins include infotainment glitches and heated windscreen failures.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £80-£400Affects: 2012–2017

Typical symptoms

  • •Flat battery after standing
  • •Slow to start
  • •Infotainment screen freezing
  • •Heated windscreen segments failing

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check battery age and state of charge
  • ✓Test all electrical functions
  • ✓Ask if the car has been left unused for extended periods

Buying Tips for the 2012 Ford B-Max (B299)

  • ✓If buying a PowerShift automatic, drive it hot and cold in traffic as hesitation or judder means expensive clutch work.
  • ✓On 1.0 EcoBoost models, insist on proof of correct Ford-spec oil and check whether the wet belt has been replaced.
  • ✓Test both sliding doors and their locking mechanisms; faulty door sensors and latches are common niggles.

Browse 2012–2017 Ford B-Max (B299) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2012–2017 Ford B-Max (B299) vehicles.

View 2012–2017 Directory

Other Ford B-Max (B299) Year Periods

2012–2017

Looking at a specific 2012 Ford B-Max (B299)?

Enter the registration number to check its full MOT history, outstanding finance, write-off status, and more.

Free Vehicle Check