2025 Ford Maverick used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Driver assistance and stability8 owner complaints

  Try the driver-assistance features on the road and watch for false alerts or sudden braking.

• Engine and cooling6 owner complaints

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Transmission and drivetrain6 owner complaints

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Electrical system5 owner complaints

  Test every screen, camera, power window, lock and the key fob. With the engine running, make sure no warning lights stay on.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• SuspensionRecall number 26V340000, May 27, 2026
• Electrical systemRecall number 26V239000, Apr 14, 2026
• Air bagsRecall number 26V201000, Mar 31, 2026
• VisibilityRecall number 26V157000, Mar 17, 2026
• Engine and engine coolingRecall number 26V122000, Mar 3, 2026
• Electrical systemRecall number 26V104000, Feb 20, 2026
• StructureRecall number 25V884000, Dec 18, 2025
• Power trainRecall number 25V863000, Dec 12, 2025
• EngineRecall number 25V828000, Dec 1, 2025
• Electronic stability control (ESC)Recall number 25V787000, Nov 14, 2025
• Air bagsRecall number 25V350000, Jun 9, 2025
• EquipmentRecall number 25V343000, May 23, 2025

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• This bulletin supersedes 25-2326Sep 29, 2026
• Quality improvements include: -Addresses a bug that maySep 17, 2026
• This article supersedes 26-2058 Reason for update: update the TSB title and TSB issue to include new DTCs...Sep 14, 2026
• Quality improvements include: -ePrivacy enhancementsSep 9, 2026
• Various symptoms including but not limited to the auto start/stop system not operating as intended with a...Jul 23, 2026
• No audio/sound conditionJul 20, 2026

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.