Free used car buyer guide / First generation / 2022-2025
Ford Maverick common problems and best years
By BYBA Research - how we score cars
Updated 2026-06-12
BYBA Buy Score
7.4/10
1 walk-away risk, 7 minor faults documented for this generation, weighted by severity and repair cost. Biggest factor: hybrid engine failure and under-hood fire risk. Score methodology.
The Maverick is a clever used truck, but its early ownership story is software-heavy and recall-heavy rather than old-school pickup simple. The expensive or safety-critical traps are the 2022-2023 hybrid engine-failure fire campaign and follow-up repair errors, grabby low-speed hybrid brakes under TSB 22-2493, 12V battery degradation and module wake-up faults, rear lighting/turn-signal software recalls, trailer-light faults, and 2024-2025 build-specific fuel tank, park module, brake booster, and engine hardware recalls. The safest buy is a 2024 2.0L EcoBoost AWD without open recalls, or a 2023-2024 hybrid only after every Ford software and fire-risk action is verified by VIN. Current owners should keep recall paperwork current because Maverick faults often look like random electronics until Ford releases a module calibration or campaign.
Faults covered
8
Highest risk
Hybrid engine failure and
Best years
2023-2024
Best buys
- 2024 2.0L EcoBoost AWD with no fuel-tank, lighting, camera, or trailer-module recalls open.
- 2023-2024 Hybrid after brake TSB and all HPCM/engine-fire software actions are confirmed.
Inspect hard
- 2022 Hybrid: check grabby brakes, 12V battery health, HPCM updates, and engine-fire campaign status.
- Tow-package trucks: test trailer light output and check integrated trailer brake module recalls.
- 2025 trucks: verify park module, brake booster ECU cover, engine, and occupant-sensor recalls by VIN.
Avoid
- Hybrid with low-speed brake grab still unfixed or repeated 12V failures.
- Any truck with open fuel leak, park pawl, or engine-fire recall.
- Modified trucks with spliced high-voltage or trailer wiring.
Next checks
Before you contact the seller
Check the car's history first. Then bring the right tools if it still looks worth viewing.
Primary next step
Check history, title, and recall status
The faults above matter more if the car also has accident history, finance flags, missing service records, or open safety recalls.
Viewing kit
Bring the right tools
Four cheap tools catch most of the faults on this page at a Ford Maverick viewing.
Printable workflow
Take the inspection pack
The PDF is the ordered checklist for the viewing: documents, walk-around, test drive, and scan.
Open PDF optionSome links here are partner links. If you buy through one, BYBA earns a commission. The price you pay does not change. How we make money.
Engines and trims
Which Ford Maverick should you buy?
On most used cars, the engine and trim choice changes the risk more than the mileage does. Narrow this down before you start viewing cars.
2.5L hybrid FWD
2022-2024
BEST ECONOMY, MOST SOFTWARE SCRUTINY
The hybrid is the Maverick's identity and the fuel-saver buyers want. It also carries the grabby-brake TSB, hybrid module recall work, 12V battery issues, and the engine-failure fire campaign. Buy it only after VIN status is clean.
2.5L hybrid AWD
2025
PROMISING BUT TOO NEW TO ASSUME
The 2025 AWD hybrid fixes a major buyer wish, but it enters the used market with new-year recall exposure including park module, brake booster ECU cover, engine, OCS, moonroof, and block-heater actions depending on equipment.
2.0L EcoBoost FWD
2022-2023
SIMPLEST EARLY POWERTRAIN
The front-drive EcoBoost avoids hybrid brake blending and HPCM problems. It still needs software, camera, lighting, fuel-system, and transmission behavior checks.
2.0L EcoBoost AWD
2022-2025
BEST TRUCK-LIKE MAVERICK
AWD EcoBoost is the better choice for towing, snow, and buyers who want a small pickup more than maximum mpg. Inspect the 8-speed shift quality, rear driveline, fuel tank recalls on 2024 builds, and 2025 engine/block-heater actions.
Year notes
Year-by-year buyer advice
Use this to narrow the search before you spend time travelling to view a car.
2022
Launch year with hybrid standard and 2.0L EcoBoost optional. Major themes are hybrid brake TSB 22-2493, side airbag, fuel tank, engine-fire, trailer-brake, rear-camera, 12V, HPCM, and follow-up repair campaigns.
Buyer: A 2022 hybrid must have a clean Ford campaign history and a low-speed brake test. The 2.0L is simpler but still needs module and camera checks.
Owner: Keep recall visits current and test the 12V battery before winter. Many odd warnings trace back to voltage or software.
2023
Production improved, but 2023 hybrids remain in engine-fire, HPCM, 12V, lighting, instrument-cluster, camera, wiper, and follow-up repair actions.
Buyer: Do not assume 2023 escaped launch issues. Hybrid and tow-package trucks need VIN-level checks.
Owner: Save screenshots of FordPass or dealer recall status after every campaign visit.
2024
Hybrid availability changed by trim/order mix; recalls include fuel tank on specific builds, rear tail lights, turn signals, rear camera, wiper motor, child-seat tether anchors, HPCM, and trailer-module actions.
Buyer: A 2024 EcoBoost AWD is the cleanest used target if the fuel tank and lighting recalls do not apply or are completed.
Owner: Test rear lights monthly if your truck had BCM lighting work. Several later recalls concern incorrect prior repairs.
2025
Refresh year with hybrid AWD available and new features. Recall exposure includes park module, electric brake booster ECU cover, engine cylinder head, OCS sensor, moonroof bonding, EGR valve, integrated trailer module, and block heater on certain equipment.
Buyer: A 2025 is too new to buy on assumption. Check open recalls immediately before signing because new campaigns have continued into 2026.
Owner: Keep dealer software updates current and avoid aftermarket electrical additions until recall work is stable.
Common problems
Faults to check before buying
What fails, what it looks like, what it costs, and the quick checks you can do at the viewing - ranked by how badly each one can hurt you.
Fault 1
Hybrid engine failure and under-hood fire risk
Affects
Certain 2022-2023 Maverick 2.5L hybrid vehicles.
Symptoms
May be recall-status only; possible engine noise, oil smell, smoke, loss of power, or post-failure fluid/vapor exposure near hot components.
Typical repair cost
$0 under recall; engine damage outside coverage can exceed $6,000.
Codes / scan clues
Misfire, oil-pressure, and hybrid powertrain codes vary by failure mode.
Root cause: NHTSA campaign 23V380 states that engine failure may release oil and fuel vapor near ignition sources. Later campaigns address incorrect prior repairs for related 2.5L HEV/PHEV populations.
Quick check
- Run the VIN through Ford and NHTSA before viewing.
- Confirm 23V380 and later 25V345 follow-up status where applicable.
- Reject any truck with open fire-risk action until dealer work is completed.
Buyer note
A hybrid Maverick with open fire-risk work is not ready to buy. The right price is irrelevant until the campaign status is clean.
Owner note
Keep recall completion documents. Future buyers will want proof that the original action and any follow-up repair were both handled.
Fault 2
Grabby low-speed hybrid brakes
Affects
2022 Maverick 2.5L hybrid, with owner reports into later trucks.
Symptoms
Brakes suddenly bite below about 6 mph, parking-lot stops feel jerky, or DTC P0402 appears with related calibration need.
Typical repair cost
$0-200 if handled as TSB/software; brake hardware costs more if unrelated wear is present.
Codes / scan clues
P0402 noted in TSB 22-2493; ABS module codes may vary.
Root cause: Ford TSB 22-2493 attributes the grabby brake behavior to ABS module software on 2022 hybrid trucks.
Quick check
- During the test drive, brake gently from 10 mph to zero several times.
- Ask whether TSB 22-2493 was performed.
- Scan ABS and PCM modules after the drive.
Buyer note
This is fixable, but it is a real drivability and confidence problem in traffic. Confirm the update, then verify the feel yourself.
Owner note
If the update helped but did not cure the feel, document speed, temperature, and pedal behavior before returning to the dealer.
Fault 3
12V battery degradation and module wake-up faults
Affects
2022-2023 Maverick and related Bronco Sport vehicles.
Symptoms
No-start, dead 12V battery, warning messages, lost accessory function, or modules not waking/sleeping correctly.
Typical repair cost
$0 under recall where applicable; $180-450 for battery and testing outside coverage.
Codes / scan clues
Low-voltage and communication codes across BCM/HPCM/PCM.
Root cause: Ford recalls 24V267 and 25V019 address module detection of 12V state changes and battery degradation that can cause sudden failure.
Quick check
- Load-test the 12V battery.
- Check 24V267, 25V019, and later repair-error actions by VIN.
- Scan for low-voltage history in multiple modules.
Buyer note
A weak 12V battery can make a hybrid Maverick look worse than it is, but unresolved recall status means the fault may return.
Owner note
Replace marginal 12V batteries early. Chasing module faults on a weak battery wastes time.
Fault 4
Rear turn signal and tail light software faults
Affects
2022-2024 Maverick, including later incorrect-repair recalls.
Symptoms
Rear turn signal out without fast flashing, tail lamp deactivation, warning messages, or trailer/lighting oddities after BCM updates.
Typical repair cost
$0 under recall; $150-700 for diagnostics or lamp/module repairs outside coverage.
Codes / scan clues
BCM lighting codes vary.
Root cause: Ford campaigns 23V848 and 24V293 address rear turn-signal and tail-light behavior; 25V094 and 25V095 address vehicles repaired incorrectly under those actions.
Quick check
- Test all rear lights before and after the road test.
- Check whether prior lighting recalls were followed by new open follow-up recalls.
- For tow-package trucks, test trailer output.
Buyer note
Lighting recalls are common on Maverick. The red flag is not the existence of the recall, it is a seller who cannot show completion.
Owner note
After any BCM update, physically check rear lights. Do not rely only on the dash warning logic.
Fault 5
Hybrid powertrain control module software may shift to neutral
Affects
2022-2024 Maverick hybrid plus related Escape/Corsair populations.
Symptoms
Loss of drive, powertrain warning, vehicle unexpectedly shifts to neutral, or warning messages after recall software.
Typical repair cost
$0 under recall; dealer-level module work required.
Codes / scan clues
HPCM and PCM software-related codes vary.
Root cause: NHTSA campaign 24V330 covers HPCM software that may cause the vehicle to shift to neutral; 25V133 covers incorrect prior repairs.
Quick check
- Confirm 24V330 and 25V133 status by VIN.
- Scan HPCM/PCM for software level and stored events.
- Road-test long enough for hybrid transitions.
Buyer note
Do not accept a hybrid with open HPCM work. This is a dealer software item that should be closed before sale.
Owner note
If symptoms appear after a recall visit, return with the campaign number and stored codes rather than describing it as a random stall.
Fault 6
Rear camera frozen image
Affects
2022-2024 Maverick with Connected Touch Radio.
Symptoms
Rear camera image freezes, lags, or shows stale view after shifting into Reverse.
Typical repair cost
$0 under recall; $200-800 if hardware or module diagnosis is needed outside coverage.
Codes / scan clues
APIM/CTR/camera codes vary.
Root cause: NHTSA campaign 24V684 covers Maverick CTR trucks where the rear camera image may freeze.
Quick check
- Shift into Reverse repeatedly and watch for image lag.
- Move behind the truck only after confirming the image is live.
- Confirm 24V684 and later camera/software actions by VIN.
Buyer note
A frozen camera is a safety issue, not just an annoyance. It should be updated before delivery.
Owner note
Record video of any frozen image because intermittent camera faults are hard to reproduce at the counter.
Fault 7
Fuel tank leak on certain 2024 trucks
Affects
Certain 2024 Maverick vehicles.
Symptoms
Fuel smell, wet tank seam, visible leak after fill-up, or open recall status with no repair invoice.
Typical repair cost
$0 under recall; tank replacement can exceed $1,200 outside coverage.
Codes / scan clues
EVAP leak codes possible but not required.
Root cause: NHTSA campaign 24V185 states that the fuel tanks may have an open pinch joint between molds, allowing fuel to leak.
Quick check
- Check 24V185 by VIN on every 2024.
- Smell near the tank after a fill-up if safe.
- Inspect for staining around the tank seam.
Buyer note
Do not buy a 2024 with open fuel-tank work. It is too serious and too easy to verify.
Owner note
Avoid parking in enclosed spaces if fuel smell appears; book the recall repair immediately.
Fault 8
2025 park module, brake booster, and engine build recalls
Affects
Certain 2025 Maverick vehicles, depending on equipment and build.
Symptoms
Recall-status item may show no symptom; possible roll-away risk, brake booster faults, engine malfunction, airbag/OCS warnings, or moonroof bonding concerns.
Typical repair cost
$0 under recall; high cost if ignored after warranty.
Codes / scan clues
Brake booster, PCM, OCS, and park module codes vary.
Root cause: NHTSA 2025 Maverick data lists campaigns for integrated park module, electric brake booster ECU cover overheating, cylinder head manufacturing, occupant classification sensor, moonroof bonding, and EGR/block-heater issues.
Quick check
- Run the exact VIN the same day you buy.
- Verify no open park pawl or brake booster action.
- Check all occupant and airbag indicators during start-up.
Buyer note
The 2025 is too new for pattern failure confidence. Treat open safety actions as delivery blockers.
Owner note
Recheck recall status after ownership starts because additional 2025 actions have appeared after launch.
Inspection pack
Printable checklist for the viewing
The free page helps you decide whether the car is worth seeing. The paid guide is the ordered, printable checklist you use at the car.
Documents
- Ford and NHTSA VIN recall report printed the day of purchase.
- Dealer invoices for HPCM, 12V, lighting, rear-camera, and hybrid fire-risk actions.
- Brake TSB 22-2493 completion proof on 2022 hybrid trucks.
- Tow-package and trailer-brake module records where fitted.
Walk around
- Test every rear light and trailer connector if equipped.
- Inspect fuel tank area on 2024 trucks.
- Look for aftermarket wiring, lift kits, and spliced harnesses.
In the car
- Check warning lights, cluster illumination, FordPass messages, and camera response.
- Verify 12V battery age and voltage.
- On 2025, confirm airbag/occupant indicator behavior.
Test drive
- Hybrid: repeat gentle stops below 10 mph.
- EcoBoost: check 8-speed shifts cold and warm.
- Tow-package: verify trailer output when safe and available.
Scan tool
- Scan BCM, PCM, HPCM, ABS, APIM/CTR, and battery-monitor modules.
- Check for low-voltage history and incomplete monitor resets.
- Record software levels before purchase if paying near retail.
Bottom line
Buy: Buy a 2024 EcoBoost AWD for the cleanest mix of utility and lower hybrid software risk, or a 2023-2024 hybrid only after every campaign and TSB item is documented. A cheap Maverick with open recalls is not the bargain it looks like.
Avoid: Avoid hybrids with unresolved fire-risk, HPCM, 12V, or brake-grab issues; avoid 2024 fuel-tank recall trucks until repaired; and treat 2025 open park/brake/engine recalls as stop signs.
Quick answers
Ford Maverick buyer questions
The short versions of what this page answers in full.
What are the most common Ford Maverick 2022-2025 problems?
The highest-impact documented faults are: Hybrid engine failure and under-hood fire risk; Grabby low-speed hybrid brakes; 12V battery degradation and module wake-up faults. This guide covers 8 faults in total, each with symptoms, typical repair costs, and checks you can do at a viewing.
Which Ford Maverick years are the best to buy?
2023-2024 stand out in this generation. Buy a 2024 EcoBoost AWD for the cleanest mix of utility and lower hybrid software risk, or a 2023-2024 hybrid only after every campaign and TSB item is documented. A cheap Maverick with open recalls is not the bargain it looks like.
Which Ford Maverick should I avoid?
Avoid hybrids with unresolved fire-risk, HPCM, 12V, or brake-grab issues; avoid 2024 fuel-tank recall trucks until repaired; and treat 2025 open park/brake/engine recalls as stop signs.
Is the Ford Maverick 2022-2025 a reliable used buy?
BYBA scores it 7.4/10 (buy with checks). 1 walk-away risk, 7 minor faults documented for this generation, weighted by severity and repair cost. Biggest factor: hybrid engine failure and under-hood fire risk.
Get updates when this guide changes
Recalls get added, repair costs shift, and new fault patterns show up in the data. Leave an email and we'll tell you when the Ford Maverick guide gets a meaningful revision. Nothing else, no selling your address.
Research basis
- api.nhtsa.gov: recallsByVehicle
- api.nhtsa.gov: recallsByVehicle
- api.nhtsa.gov: recallsByVehicle
- api.nhtsa.gov: recallsByVehicle
- tsbsearch.com: 22-2493
- mavericktruckclub.com: tsb-22-2493-issued-for-2-5l-hybrid-maverick-grabby-brakes
- go-parts.com: brake-pedal-ford-maverick-2022-2024
- nhtsa.gov: recalls
- Autoevolution TSB 22-2493 report
- AP report on Ford park-module recall including 2025 Maverick