Question 1

What is Powershift Gearbox Failure on the Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1?

Accepted Answer

The 6DCT450 wet-clutch Powershift automatic requires fluid changes every 3 years/37,500 miles. If missed, the internal plastic damping springs shatter and destroy the mechatronic unit.

Question 2

What is Steering Rack Failure on the Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1?

Accepted Answer

The power steering rack can leak fluid internally into the track rod end boots, eventually running the pump dry and ruining the rack.

Question 3

What is Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF) Wear on the Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1?

Accepted Answer

The S-Max heavy body puts extra strain on the DMF. Symptoms include rattling at idle especially cold, vibration through the pedals and difficulty engaging gears. Some owners report failure as early as 60,000 miles on cars used in stop-start traffic.

Question 4

What is DPF Clogging and Vaporiser Failure on the Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1?

Accepted Answer

Short urban journeys prevent DPF regeneration. The fuel vaporiser can fail and the differential pressure sensor is a common secondary failure. Without the vaporiser working the DPF cannot regenerate and will eventually clog completely.

Question 5

What is Power Folding Seat Mechanism Failure on the Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1?

Accepted Answer

The 2nd and 3rd-row seats fold flat electrically via motors in the seat bases. These motors can fail, the mechanisms can jam and the wiring in the seat channels can fracture. A non-folding third row reduces the car key practical advantage.

Question 6

What should I check when buying a used Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1?

Accepted Answer

Test the Powershift automatic gearbox thoroughly; juddering or hesitation means a £2k+ repair bill is looming

Question 7

What should I check when buying a used Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1?

Accepted Answer

Check all 7 seats fold flat and lock into place smoothly; the mechanisms can jam if abused

Question 8

What should I check when buying a used Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1?

Accepted Answer

Inspect the rear tyres for uneven wear, as the heavy rear end can chew through tyres if the geometry is out

Question 9

What years was the Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1 made?

Accepted Answer

The Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1 was produced from 2006 to 2014.

Ford Ford S-MAX Mk1

Ford S-MAX Mk1 Reliability & Common Faults

Browse by Production Year