Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide.
8 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentInterior rattles and squeaks
From dashboard, speedometer, and various plastic trim pieces; attributed to cheap materials and poor build quality.
- Very frequentBuild quality and reliability concerns
High number of recalls, especially on 2022 models; general perception of being built to a low price point with cost-cutting evident.
- RecurrentHybrid FWD CV axle shimmy/shake
Vibration through steering wheel and cabin starting around 40 mph (64 km/h) and worsening at highway speeds; attributed to weak axles; not reported on AWD hybrids.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentFaulty 12V battery
OEM battery under rear seat fails prematurely (around 3 years), causes various electrical faults and parasitic drain.
- RecurrentEngine mount failure
Causing excessive idle shake, sometimes requiring replacement very early in vehicle life (e.g., at 90 miles).
- IsolatedBattery coolant heater failure
Known issue in hybrid models, covered under the hybrid component warranty (10 years).
- IsolatedFuel injector failure (Ecoboost)
Causing fuel leakage into oil, requiring full set replacement.
- IsolatedThrottle body failure (Ecoboost)
Not covered under powertrain warranty per one report.
The version owners recommend
2025+ Hybrid AWD. The updated hybrid powertrain with all-wheel drive is strongly recommended for its combination of fuel efficiency, improved power (188 hp), 4,000 lb towing capacity (with optional package), and a multi-link rear suspension that improves ride quality. This configuration addresses the performance limitations of earlier FWD hybrids while maintaining the drivetrain's reliability reputation. The Lariat trim is mentioned for its adaptive cruise control and higher feature content, but with the caveat that the vehicle's inherent build quality may not justify the premium price.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Honda Civic Hatchback, Honda Ridgeline, Ford F-150, Ford Ranger and Hyundai Santa Cruz.
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Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. The vehicle is widely praised for its core value proposition: a practical, fuel-efficient, and affordable compact pickup with excellent utility for its size. The hybrid powertrain, particularly in the updated 2025+ models, is frequently highlighted for its strong fuel economy (40+ MPG reported), surprising acceleration (0-60 mph/0-97 km/h in 6.7 seconds for AWD hybrid), and perceived long-term reliability due to its shared lineage with proven Toyota hybrid systems. However, significant and recurrent criticism centers on subpar build quality, including widespread interior rattles, cheap-feeling plastics, and a high number of recalls, especially on early model years (2022). Owners report a stark contrast between the appealing concept and the execution, with many stating the vehicle feels like an economy car, making higher trim levels at elevated prices difficult to justify. Satisfaction is highly dependent on managing expectations around refinement and securing the vehicle at or below MSRP.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a unique, car-based compact pickup offering superior fuel economy and lower operating costs versus traditional body-on-frame trucks (Ford Ranger, F-150, Chevrolet Colorado). It is seen as a more utilitarian and affordable alternative to crossover SUVs like the Honda CR-V/RAV4 Hybrid, trading interior refinement for an open bed. Compared to its direct rival, the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Maverick is often viewed as the more fuel-efficient and value-oriented choice, though the Santa Cruz is noted for a nicer interior. Against full-size trucks, it wins on maneuverability, parking ease, and fuel costs but loses decisively on payload, towing, interior space, and long-haul comfort. It is consistently described as a "Bronco Sport/Escape with a bed" rather than a true scaled-down F-150.
Recommended configurations
Hybrid AWD powertrain. The 4,000 lb tow package is strongly recommended for maximum utility. For the hybrid, AWD is advised over FWD to avoid reported weak CV axle issues causing shimmy/shake at highway speeds. A bed cover (soft tri-fold mentioned) and bed extender are popular accessories for utility and weather protection. Weathertech or Ford-branded all-weather floor mats are recommended. An aftermarket AGM 12V battery is suggested to replace the reportedly weak OEM unit. Purchasing an extended service plan (ESP) from a high-volume dealer is frequently recommended due to reliability concerns, especially for early-build vehicles.
General recommendations
Suitable for urban/suburban buyers needing occasional truck utility (Home Depot runs, yard waste, light towing) with daily commuter fuel efficiency. Ideal for those transitioning from a hatchback or small SUV who value the open bed. NOT recommended for buyers expecting traditional truck ruggedness, premium interior materials, or a quiet, refined highway cruiser. Strongly advised to avoid first model year (2022) vehicles due to numerous recalls and teething problems. For any model year, conduct an extensive test drive at various speeds to check for drivetrain vibrations (hybrid FWD), interior rattles, and overall build quality. Negotiate aggressively to purchase at or below MSRP, as transaction prices approaching $35,000-$40,000 USD diminish the value proposition significantly. Verify all recall work has been completed.
Remarks
A significant model year update occurred for 2025, introducing an AWD option for the hybrid, a more powerful hybrid drivetrain (HF55), and a shorter final drive ratio, which addressed major performance criticisms of earlier hybrids. The 2022 model year is consistently singled out as having the most problems, validating the "avoid first model year" adage. The hybrid powertrain, while sharing core technology with Toyota, is noted to have had Ford-specific implementation issues (cooling system compromises per one review). The vehicle's encrypted TRON architecture (2025+) may limit aftermarket modification. Owner sentiment is heavily influenced by price; satisfaction is high when the vehicle is purchased as an economical tool, but plummets when priced near larger, more capable competitors. Analysis based on approximately 42 substantive owner discussions and comparisons.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 15 | 7 | service brakes |
| 2025 | 98 | 12 | electrical system |
| 2024 | 176 | 15 | power train |
| 2023 | 344 | 21 | power train |
| 2022 | 616 | 28 | electrical system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices83 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2026 · power train:automatic transmission:internal:park pawlcampaign 25V863000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2026 F-150 Lightning BEV, 2024-2026 Mustang Mach-E, and 2025-2026 Maverick vehicles. The integrated park module may fail to lock into the park position when the driver shifts into park. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
2026 · structure:interior panels:dashboardcampaign 25V884000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Maverick vehicles. The instrument panel cover may separate when the air bag deploy.
2026 · electrical system: integrated trailer brake controlcampaign 26V104000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 F-150, 2022-2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, Maverick, 2024-2026 Ranger, 2023-2026 F-600 SD, 2022-2027 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and 2026 E-Transit vehicles. When towing a trailer, the integrated trailer module (ITRM) may lose communication with the vehicle, possibly causing a loss of brake and turn signal lights, or a loss of brake function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2026 · visibility:sun/moon roof assemblycampaign 26V157000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Maverick vehicles. The moonroof glass may not have been bonded correctly to the moonroof frame, which could result in the glass panel detaching from the vehicle.
2026 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 26V201000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Bronco Sport and Maverick vehicles. The Occupant Classification Sensor (OCS) unit may fail to correctly detect the presence of an adult or child in the front passenger seat. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2026 · suspension:front:control arm:lower ball jointcampaign 26V340000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 Bronco Sport and 2022-2026 Maverick vehicles. The front lower control arm ball joints may have been incorrectly installed or incorrectly repaired at the vehicle assembly plant, allowing the control arm to disconnect from the front wheel knuckle.
2026 · structure:bodycampaign 26V550000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Maverick, F-150, and Bronco Sport vehicles. Certain vehicle joints may be improperly tightened. This can lead to detached parts, unsecured cargo, degraded crash protection, electrical system failure, or a loss of vehicle stability.
2025 · electrical systemcampaign 25V343000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Lincoln Nautilus, 2023-2025 Escape, 2023 Lincoln Corsair, 2025 Lincoln Corsair, Maverick, and Bronco Sport vehicles equipped with a 1.5L or 2.0L MPC engine and an engine block heater. The engine block heater may overheat when the vehicle is parked with the block heater plugged in.
2025 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:status indicator lamp/lightcampaign 25V350000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Maverick vehicles. The air bag indicator light on the dashboard may be loose or dislodged, and not visible to occupants. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2025 · electronic stability control (esc)campaign 25V787000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Maverick and Escape vehicles. The cover for the electric brake booster's ECU may cause the printed circuit board to overheat and result in a loss of vehicle stability control systems (anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, and traction control) or a loss of brake power assist.
2025 · enginecampaign 25V828000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2026 Explorer, Mustang, Lincoln Corsair, and 2025 Maverick vehicles. The cylinder head may have been improperly manufactured, which can cause the ball plugs to fail, resulting in an oil leak.
2025 · power train:automatic transmission:internal:park pawlcampaign 25V863000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2026 F-150 Lightning BEV, 2024-2026 Mustang Mach-E, and 2025-2026 Maverick vehicles. The integrated park module may fail to lock into the park position when the driver shifts into park. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
2025 · structure:interior panels:dashboardcampaign 25V884000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Maverick vehicles. The instrument panel cover may separate when the air bag deploy.
2025 · electrical system: integrated trailer brake controlcampaign 26V104000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 F-150, 2022-2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, Maverick, 2024-2026 Ranger, 2023-2026 F-600 SD, 2022-2027 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and 2026 E-Transit vehicles. When towing a trailer, the integrated trailer module (ITRM) may lose communication with the vehicle, possibly causing a loss of brake and turn signal lights, or a loss of brake function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2025 · engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:emission control:gas recirculation valve (egr valve)campaign 26V122000
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Ranger, Lincoln Nautilus, Mustang, Maverick, Explorer, Escape, Lincoln Corsair, Bronco Sport, and Bronco vehicles. The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve may fail, resulting in an unexpected loss of drive power.
68 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: 2021
Tremor 2.0 EcoBoost
2.0L 4-cylinder · 238 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2024–2026