Log inCheck a car
Known Faults Database

Ford S-Max problems, reliability and years to avoid

If you are considering buying a used Ford S-Max, these are the common problems worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 7 known faults for this model, 4 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

Free advert check

Found a Ford S-Max for sale?

Paste the advert and we read it against these 7 known faults, its MOT history and the DVLA record, and tell you what the seller has not. Free, about a minute, no card.

Check a Ford S-Max advert (free) →
Works with any listing: paste the text from AutoTrader, Gumtree, eBay, Facebook Marketplace or a dealer’s own site.

Is the Ford S-Max reliable?

The Ford S-Max has 7 known faults in our database across 2 generations, 4 of them rated high severity. The most serious are gearbox (the six-speed Powershift wet dual-clutch automatic is due fresh fluid plus a new filter) and gearbox (the wet-clutch Powershift automatic transmission). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.

That is a count of the faults we hold, not a reliability score. Popular cars get written about more, and a newer generation has had less time to show its faults.

Which Ford S-Max years should you avoid?

No year is a write-off on its own. What matters is which serious faults a given year and engine can have, and whether the car in front of you has had them fixed.

Mk1, 2006 to 20154 high severity
7 known faults, the serious ones in the gearbox, engine
Mk2, 2015 to 2023
No faults on record yet

Years and engines with a serious known fault

  • 2010 to 2018, Powershift automatic (mainly 2.0 TDCi): the six-speed Powershift wet dual-clutch automatic is due fresh fluid plus
  • 2008 to 2011, 2.0 TDCi with Powershift (Wet Clutch): the wet-clutch Powershift automatic transmission
  • 2005 to 2011, 2.5 5-cylinder Volvo Engine: timing belt tensioner failure on the 2.5-litre Volvo engine can occur as early
  • 2014 to 2015, 2.0 Duratorq Diesel: on some 2.0 Duratorq diesels built between July 2014 and October 2015

Each one is set out in full below, with the symptoms, the typical mileage and a rough repair cost.

Generation 1 of 27 known faults · 23 owner reports · 8 good notes

Ford S-Max Mk1 (2006 to 2015) problems

Transmission/ClutchHigh severity💬 3 owner reports, 2012 to 2014

The wet-clutch Powershift automatic transmission (Getrag 6DCT450) requires fresh fluid and microfilter every 3 years. Neglecting this maintenance, or a sensor failure, can lead to transmission failure, with replacement costs around £3,000.

Rough guide
£2500-3500

Typical symptoms

  • Delay in engaging drive
  • Loss of reverse gear
  • Transmission only engaging certain gears
  • Transmission shuddering or hesitation

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.0 TDCi with Powershift (Wet Clutch)
Typical mileage:
50000-80000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 2 owner reports, 2011

Timing belt tensioner failure on the 2.5-litre Volvo engine can occur as early as 50,000 miles, leading to the belt detaching and catastrophic engine damage, with rebuilds costing around £6,000.

Rough guide
£5000-6000

Typical symptoms

  • Sudden loss of engine power
  • Engine cutting out
  • Loud mechanical noise from engine bay
  • Engine refusing to restart

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.5 5-cylinder Volvo Engine
Typical mileage:
50000-70000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Engine/EmissionsHigh severity🏛️ Official recall

On some 2.0 Duratorq diesels built between July 2014 and October 2015, the engine control software may not detect overheating properly, and in extreme cases an overheated engine can crack the oil sump and lose its oil. UK safety recall R/2018/053 covers Focus, C-Max, Kuga, Mondeo, Galaxy and S-Max and fits revised software with a dashboard warning and a power cut-back.

Rough guide
£unknown (the recall software update is free)

Typical symptoms

  • Engine overheating warning
  • Sudden loss of engine oil
  • Engine management light
  • Engine de-rate or limp mode

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.0 Duratorq Diesel
Typical mileage:
Unknown miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Transmission/ClutchHigh severity💬 4 owner reports, 2015 to 2020

The six-speed Powershift wet dual-clutch automatic is due fresh fluid plus a new filter at 3 year or roughly 38,000 mile intervals. Reported problems include judder when moving off, intermittent loss of drive, and the 'Transmission limited function' message appearing alongside the gearbox slipping or dropping out of gear, in one case needing a repair quoted at about £4,500.

Typical symptoms

  • judder when pulling away
  • 'Transmission limited function' warning
  • slipping or dropping out of gear

Affected vehicles

Engines:
Powershift automatic (mainly 2.0 TDCi)
Typical mileage:
38000-67000 miles
14 more owner reports back this up
  • June 2019A 2014 S-Max Powershift had its clutch packs replaced under warranty at 62,000 miles, costing £2,400, but they failed again at 73,000 miles.
  • May 2019The wet clutch Powershift transmission in a 2015 S-Max failed at 46,000 miles, with a dealer quoting £4,000 for replacement.
  • February 2019A 2014/2015 S-Max Powershift transmission failed, likely due to a missed oil and filter change; repair was estimated at £4,000.
  • November 2018A used 2012 S-Max Powershift transmission failed soon after purchase because the essential 38,000 mile fluid change was missed.
  • May 2018A 2013 S-Max 2.0 TDCi 140 suffered a Getrag Powershift failure despite a required oil and filter change; replacement was quoted at £4,000.
  • February 2018A 2014 S-Max Getrag Powershift transmission failed at 75,000 kilometres because the three-year oil and filter service was missed, costing £5,500.
  • May 2017A 2010 S-Max 2.0 Ecoboost Powershift transmission had problems at 79,000 miles, holding first gear and faltering, possibly needing a fluid change.
  • May 2017A 2012 S-Max 2.0 TDCi Powershift transmission developed problems at 45,000 miles, but Ford refused to repair or replace it free of charge.
  • August 2016A 2010 S-Max Powershift transmission failed at 88,000 miles, quoted at £4,500 for replacement, as the required fluid change was never done.
  • February 2016A 1,999cc 16v Ecoboost SCTi S-Max Powershift began to shudder on take-off at 35,000 miles.
  • December 2015A 2010 S-Max Getrag Powershift transmission failed at 21,000 miles, costing £2,900 for repair, but the fault returned twice.
  • December 2014A 2011 S-Max 2.0 TDCi with 22,000 miles experienced Getrag Powershift problems, with a Ford dealer quoting £2,200 to replace sensors and clutches.
  • November 2014A used S-Max Titanium X Powershift transmission failed because the essential transmission oil and filter change was not performed at 37,000 miles.
  • August 2014A 2010 S-Max 2.0 Ecoboost Powershift transmission with 42,000 miles juddered on take-off, requiring new clutch dampers costing £1,800.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
BrakesMedium severity📝 Editorial

Diesel Galaxys share the ABS braking problems of the diesel S-Max. On one owner's 2.0 TDCi S-Max the ABS failed, and a hum like a fan running when no fan was on turned out to be the early sign of the ABS pump going.

Typical symptoms

  • hum from the front as if a fan is running when none is
  • ABS warning light on

Affected vehicles

Engines:
TDCi diesel
Typical mileage:
unknown miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Transmission/ClutchMedium severity📝 Editorial

A good number of diesel S-Max owners reported dual-mass flywheels and clutches failing early. In one case a three-year-old 2.0 TDCi at 25,000 miles was quoted £1,500 for a new flywheel and clutch, with a starter motor as well.

Rough guide
£1500

Typical symptoms

  • rattle at tickover that quietens when the clutch is pressed
  • judder or vibration when pulling away
  • clutch slipping under load

Affected vehicles

Engines:
TDCi diesel
Typical mileage:
25000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
ElectricalMedium severity📝 Editorial

If the drains in the vent well below the windscreen block, rainwater collects there and can flood through, badly damaging the wiring loom; repairs were put at £2,000 to £3,000. Water has also been getting into the wiper motors.

Rough guide
£2000-3000

Typical symptoms

  • standing water in the well under the windscreen
  • damp carpets or electrical faults after rain
  • wipers playing up

Affected vehicles

Engines:
All engines
Typical mileage:
unknown miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →

What owners report on the Mk1

23 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

  • Cooling · February 2018A coolant hose on a 2012 S-Max 1.6 EcoBoost failed at 84,000 miles, causing the engine to overheat and seize, with a dealer quoting £7,000 for replacement.
  • Engine · June 2017A 2006 S-Max 2.0 petrol developed an engine malfunction light and judder, then revved high with blue smoke, possibly due to swirl flap failure.
  • Engine · December 2016A 2012 S-Max 1.6 EcoBoost suffered a cracked engine block, possibly from previous overheating, with a new short engine costing €3,000.
  • Engine · October 2016A 2011 S-Max experienced catastrophic engine failure at 44,000 miles, with a piston failing; a new engine and turbo were quoted at £8,100.
  • Engine · July 2016A 2009 S-Max 2.0 TDCi with 100,000 miles emitted black smoke on acceleration, possibly due to turbo or valve stem oil seals, or dirty injectors.
  • Engine · April 2016The 2.5 litre 5-cylinder engine in a 2008 S-Max failed at 45,000 miles, likely due to a seized water pump causing timing belt failure.
  • Electrics · April 2016A used 2007 S-Max experienced intermittent dashboard computer information loss, with repairs estimated at £350 for wiring or £850+ for a new panel.
  • Engine · April 2016A 2011 S-Max EcoBoost suffered total engine failure, and after replacement, repeated engine warning lights were resolved by changing sensors.
  • Engine · March 2016A 2007 S-Max 2.0 TDCi with 117,000 miles was using oil, with oil in the radiator header tank, suggesting a head gasket issue.
  • Exhaust · November 2015The DPF of a 2011 S-Max 2.2 TDCi Titanium failed to regenerate despite multiple replacements, and the dealer could not fix the problem.
  • Suspension and steering · September 2015A 2-year-old S-Max with 38,000 miles developed a whirring noise from the front, requiring replacement of the front wheel bearings and tyres.
  • Engine · June 2015A 2011 S-Max 2.0 EcoBoost 240 with 54,000 miles showed a flashing engine warning light and power loss, revealing piston crown damage.
  • Gearbox and clutch · June 2015A 2012 S-Max Powershift had clutches pulling against the brakes when stopped, possibly due to high idle speed, a software glitch, or a faulty brake light switch.
  • Bodywork · June 2015The opening panoramic roof mechanism on a 2012 S-Max failed again out of warranty, with Ford covering parts but the dealer charging £500 for labour.
  • Gearbox and clutch · January 2015A 2009 S-Max 2.0i petrol had poor starting and a catalytic converter light on, diagnosed as a failing dual mass flywheel affecting timing.
  • Brakes · December 2014The parking brake cable failed on a 4-year-old S-Max with 49,000 miles, requiring a new lever assembly at £220 for parts and £300 for labour.
  • Engine · September 2014A 203PS EcoBoost Powershift S-Max had a new engine fitted under warranty after head gasket failure, but the engine warning light kept coming on.
  • Engine · May 2014A 2011 S-Max 2.2 TDCi suffered total engine failure in February 2013, having been purchased used with 5,500 miles.
  • Engine · September 2013A 2010 S-Max 2.0 Ecoboost (203) with 38,000 miles broke down due to an injector problem, requiring new valve stem seals.
  • Gearbox and clutch · August 2013A Ford S-MAX required a new dual-mass flywheel and clutch replacement at 55,000 miles, incurring a repair cost of £1,500.
  • Gearbox and clutch · May 2013A 3-year-old S-Max needed a new dual mass flywheel and clutch, quoted at £1,600, plus a £500 exhaust section.
  • Engine · October 2012A 2007 S-Max 1.8 TDCi with 36,000 miles suffered catastrophic main bearing failure.
  • Engine · December 2011A 2.0 Ecoboost 240 S-Max lost power under hard acceleration because a jubilee clip on the air intake was not tightened during a service.

What owners like about the Mk1

8 notes
  • July 2019A 2010 S-Max 2.0 TDCi achieved 293,000 miles on its original clutch, with fuel economy improving by 5-6mpg after switching to Shell V-Power diesel.
  • September 2018A 2010 S-Max diesel Titanium reached 286,000 miles with no reported problems.
  • January 2018A 2010 S-Max 2.0 TDCi Titanium achieved 284,000 trouble-free miles, retaining its original clutch and showing improved fuel economy with premium diesel.
  • January 2018A 2007 S-Max provided 100,000 trouble-free miles and was well-liked by its owner.
  • The rear bumper of the Ford S-Max received a 'Good' rating in ABI Thatcham damageability crash tests in December 2007.
  • The Ford S-Max was recognised in the 1725-1899kg category at the 2009 Towcar Awards by expert judges.
  • The Ford S-Max features a proper 'plug and play' connection for trailer or caravan wiring in the boot.
  • A 2010 S-Max 2.0 TDCi reached 250,000 miles, with only tyres, exhaust, battery, and timing belts replaced, and no oil usage between services.
Generation 2 of 20 known faults · 1 owner report · 5 good notes

Ford S-Max Mk2 (2015 to 2023): owner reports

What owners report on the Mk2

1 single report, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

  • Electrics · February 2018A 2015 S-Max 2.0 TDCi 150 Powershift had an outdated Sync 3 satnav that did not cover new road systems, despite promises of updates.

What owners like about the Mk2

5 notes
  • The middle row of seating offers ample space and comfort, easily accommodating adult passengers.
  • The S-Max offers an excellent combination of refinement, comfort, and enjoyable driving dynamics.
  • The 2015 S-Max achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, with high scores for adult and child occupant safety.
  • The S-Max on 17-inch wheels is equipped with a full-size 17-inch spare wheel.
  • The Ford S-Max includes a proper 'plug and play' connection in the boot for all towbar wiring.

Sellers rarely admit these faults outright

We track 18 specific phrases sellers use in adverts to soft-pedal these exact issues. Paste any Ford S-Max advert and we check it in seconds.

Check an advert now (free) →
Free report, no credit card required.

Ford S-Max recalls

Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. These are the 16 DVSA recalls for the S-Max, newest first. They do not tell you whether this particular car has had the work: for that, put the registration into the free GOV.UK MOT history check, which shows a recall status where the manufacturer shares it, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN.

🏛️ May 2026Cars built November 2020 to March 2023

Multi Vehicle Line (MVL): Telecommunications Control Module (TCU) loss of Function Software Update

Affected vehicles may experience a loss of emergency call system (eCall) functionality which impacts both automatic and manual eCall events.

Put right by: Update the Telematics Control Unit software to the latest level.

DVSA R/2026/18167 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2025Cars built November 2021 to November 2022

Kuga S-Max and Galaxy - Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Update

Certain Kuga S-Max and Galaxy vehicles equipped with a 2.5L HEV/PHEV Engine may not have the remedy for Safety Recall 23S27 installed correctly but were recorded as having received the repair successfully. Because the correct software update may not have been installed on these vehicles the underlying condition specified in Safety Recall 23S27 potential under hood fire may still exist.

Put right by: Dealers are to update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software.

DVSA R/2025/24321 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2024Cars built June 2018 to September 2022

X-Car Powertain Control Module (PCM) Software Update

Affected vehicles may develop a crack in the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

Put right by: Update software to prevent a cracked DPF. Test and replace DPFs that are already cracked.

DVSA R/2025/0944,642 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ May 2024Cars built December 2014 to October 2018

Brake Hose Leak

On affected vehicles there is the possibility of the front brake hoses leaking.

Put right by: Replace both front brake hoses and modify the hose routing and ride height sensor if necessary.

DVSA R/2026/0767,510 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2022Cars built May 2022 to July 2022

THE eCALL FEATURE WILL STOP FUNCTIONING DUE TO A MALFUNCTION

It may be possible that the eCall feature will stop functioning due to a malfunction.

Put right by: The Telecommunication Module will need to be replaced

DVSA R/2022/2399,388 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2022Cars built November 2018 to April 2022

A number of vehicles fitted with adaptive headlamps will not display a warning message

Vehicles fitted with Adaptive Headlamps will not display a warning message should a failure of the module that controls the Adaptive Headlamps occur.

Put right by: Update the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) software.

DVSA R/2022/1822,260 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2021Cars built January 2015 to February 2020

The rear suspension toe link could corrode over time leading to reduced material and load capacity and finally breakage of the bolt

The Rear Suspension Toe Link bolt is exposed to corrosion growth which over time leads to reduced material and load capacity and finally to a breakage of the bolt.

Put right by: Replace the bolt utilising an alternative bolt supplier and update all affected vehicles.

DVSA R/2021/00539,441 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2020Cars built January 2006 to February 2017

Takata air bag inflator may rupture on deployment

Drivers airbag may not deploy correctly

Put right by: Replace Driver air bag assembly

DVSA R/2020/013219,738 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ August 2019Cars built February 2014 to February 2019

Potential battery acid leakage around negative terminal

Possible thermal incident within the battery monitor sensor wiring

Put right by: Install a fused jumper loom into the battery monitor sensor wiring

DVSA R/2019/21256,154 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2019Cars built June 2010 to December 2014

Overheating of the engine cylinder head may cause the cylinder head to crack

localized overheating of the engine cylinder head may cause the cylinder head to crack.This may cause a pressurized oil leak which in extreme circumstances could result in a fire in the engine compartment.

Put right by: A coolant level sensor needs to be fitted to provide an audible and visual warning to the customer and in extreme circumstances reduce the engine power.

DVSA R/2019/0204,026 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ February 2019Cars built July 2016 to April 2018

Vehicle could suffer clutch pressure plate fracture

A number of vehicles fitted with a 1.0 1.5 or 1.6 Ecoboost engine and 6-speed manual transmission could suffer clutch pressure plate fracture. This results in clutch smell reduced vehicle speed and performance. In the unlikely event of clutch pressure plate fracture a noise (thud / bang) could be heard from the vicinity of the transmission in extreme cases resulting in clutch / transmission fragments being released and striking under hood components creating a risk of smoke and fire from the under hood area.

Put right by: To prevent the repeated heating /cooling events a new calibration has been developed for vehicles fitted with Engine Stop Start feature. The software with the additional feature sets the Instrument panel Wrench light and de-rates the engine performance if prolonged clutch slip is detected. The software feature includes a drive cycle strategy for latching the wrench light and engine performance de-rate if the customer should experience repeated clutch slip events. For vehicles that do not have Engine Stop Start feature an alternative clutch kit has been released.

DVSA R/2018/35166,497 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ November 2018Cars built September 2014 to April 2018

Possible low torque condition with the air conditioning clutch fastener

A/C Compressor pulley may become detached.

Put right by: On affected vehicles fit a new A/C compressor clutch pulley.

DVSA R/2018/2133,021 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2018Cars built August 2009 to June 2016

Clutch pressure plate may fracture

Affected vehicles fitted with a 1.0 1.5 or 1.6 Ecoboost engine and 6-speed manual transmission could suffer clutch pressure plate fracture. This results in clutch smell reduced vehicle speed and performance. In the unlikely event of clutch pressure plate fracture a noise (thud / bang) could be heard from the vicinity of the transmission in extreme cases resulting in clutch / transmission fragments being released and striking under hood components creating a risk of smoke and fire from the under hood area.

Put right by: To prevent the repeated heating /cooling events a new calibration has been developed for vehicles fitted with Engine Stop Start feature. The software with the additional feature sets the Instrument panel Wrench light and de-rates the engine performance if prolonged clutch slip is detected. The software feature includes a drive cycle strategy for latching the wrench light and engine performance de-rate if the customer should experience repeated clutch slip events. For vehicles that do not have Engine Stop Start feature an alternative clutch kit has been released.

DVSA R/2018/082244,398 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ March 2018Cars built May 2015 to October 2015

Oil sump may crack due to the engine overheating

The engine control module calibration may not adequately detect an overheat condition in certain 2.0L Duratorq Diesel engines. In extreme cases an overheated engine can result in a breach of the oil sump leading to loss of the engine oil.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and download revised software for the control module calibration that improves overheat detection and provides an instrument cluster warning indicator to the driver and engine de-rate strategy.

DVSA R/2018/05348,595 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2016Cars built October 2014 to February 2016

Headlamps may switch off without warning

Vehicles fitted with Adaptive LED Headlamps could experience a condition where the loss of a control signal in combination with a software error may cause the headlamps to switch off. There is a risk of collision if defect happens at night.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and updated software will be loaded to the affected modules.

DVSA R/2016/1139,705 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ September 2013Cars built January 2012 to February 2013

Fire may occur

It is possible that a leak can occur between the injector spill rail connection and the plastic fuel return pipe. This can cause leakage of fuel which can either pool on the engine cylinder head and then become deposited onto the road surface where it could cause a skid risk to other motorist or if the fuel comes into contact with extremely hot engine components an exhaust manifold for instance it is possible that an under bonnet fire could ensue.

Put right by: Recall all affected vehicles inspect the fuel spill rail/return pipe and if required replace the spill rail with a new modified rail.

DVSA R/2013/1031,985 vehicles affected in the UK

Recall data published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency under the Open Government Licence v3.0. A recall listed here may not apply to every car of this model: the build dates and the registration check are what decide it.

Ford S-Max cambelt, and service intervals

An overdue cambelt is the most expensive thing a seller can fail to mention on a used S-Max. These are the figures UK specialists work to.

Timing belt (cambelt)Wet belt
2.0 ECOBLUE
100,000 miles or 6 years, whichever comes first

The Mk4 Focus (from 2018) and the S-Max and Galaxy (from the September 2018 update) offered the 2.0 EcoBlue diesel. The 2.0 EcoBlue runs its timing belt and a separate oil pump belt in oil (a wet belt), the same engine as the Transit vans. Ford's original schedule was 10 years / 150,000 miles. Ford's published cut to 6 years / 100,000 miles names only the vans, and no car-specific revision was found, but the engine and the cause (fuel dilution of the oil during DPF regeneration) are the same, so the van figure is recorded as the safer one. Change the oil pump belt with the timing belt. Not to be confused with the 1.5 EcoBlue, which is a conventional dry belt.

Injection pump drive beltWet belt
1.8 TDCI
120,000 miles or 10 years, whichever comes first

The 1.8 TDCi (Lynx) originally drove its high-pressure injection pump from the crank by a chain. On engines built from October 2007 that chain became a belt running in oil (a wet belt), designed by Dayco, while the camshaft stays on a conventional dry belt. Cars built before October 2007 have the chain, so a 2007 or 2008 car needs its build date checked. Ford's schedule is reported as 10 years / 125,000 miles for both belts, and Dayco says Ford specify the pump drive at 120,000 miles; the shorter figure is recorded. Change both belts together.

Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.

Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: November 2026

Ford S-Max buying questions

What are the most common Ford S-Max problems?

Three stand out. Gearbox: the six-speed Powershift wet dual-clutch automatic is due fresh fluid plus a new filter at 3 year (typically 38000 to 67000 miles). Gearbox: the wet-clutch Powershift automatic transmission (Getrag 6DCT450) requires fresh fluid (typically 50000 to 80000 miles). Engine: timing belt tensioner failure on the 2.5-litre Volvo engine can occur as early as 50,000 miles (typically 50000 to 70000 miles). The full list above is grouped by generation, with typical mileage and a rough repair cost for each.

Which Ford S-Max years should I avoid?

No Ford S-Max year is a write-off, but the Mk1 (2006 to 2015) carries the most serious faults: gearbox and engine. The Mk2 (2015 to 2023) has none rated high severity. Year matters less than whether the specific car has had the known fixes, so check the history for them.

What should I check when viewing a used Ford S-Max?

Ask the seller about the gearbox and engine faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for judder when pulling away, delay in engaging drive and sudden loss of engine power. Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against all 7 known faults before you travel. Check a Ford S-Max advert →

Are there any recalls on the Ford S-Max?

The DVSA lists 16 safety recalls for the Ford S-Max issued between 2013 and 2026. The most recent, from May 2026, is "Multi Vehicle Line (MVL): Telecommunications Control Module (TCU) loss of Function Software Update". Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. This list is by model, so it cannot tell you whether one particular car has had the work: the free GOV.UK MOT history check shows a recall status from the registration where the manufacturer shares it, and a franchised dealer can check the VIN.

What is the real MPG of a Ford S-Max?

Owners report 38.7 mpg on average across the Ford S-Max engines with data, about 79% of the official combined figure. The gap between official and real-world economy varies a lot by engine, so the Real MPG page lists every engine and generation separately, from 1,122 owner submissions. Ford S-Max Real MPG by engine →

Looking at a Ford S-Max right now? Check the advert before you go and see it.

Where this Ford S-Max fault data comes from

If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Ford S-Max owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.

CarAdCheck is not affiliated with Honest John or Volkswagen Financial Services. What happened to Honest John, and where each feature lives now.

Before you go and see it

Knowing what a Ford S-Max goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.

Buying a car at auction: who can bid, your rights, and how to set your limit12 min readBuying a car from a private seller: your rights, the checks and how to pay12 min readMotorhome check: what to check before you buy a used motorhome7 min read
All buyer's guides →

Other Ford models

Focus36 known faultsMondeo18 known faultsC-Max17 known faultsFiesta17 known faults