2006–2009 Ford S-MAX Mk1
Browse our directory of 2006–2009 Ford S-MAX Mk1 vehicles. Access instant MOT history reports, tax status, and reliability insights for any registration listed below.
Registration Directory
Common Problems & Reliability
The 2006–2009 Ford S-MAX Mk1 has 5 known issues. 2 of these are classified as serious faults that could be expensive to repair. 3 are moderate concerns worth inspecting before purchase.
Steering Rack Failure
SeriousThe power steering rack can leak fluid internally into the track rod end boots, eventually running the pump dry and ruining the rack.
Symptoms: Heavy steering, Whining noise from the power steering pump...
Est. repair cost: £500–£1,000
Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF) Wear
SeriousThe 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.
Symptoms: Metallic rattle at idle with clutch pedal up, Judder when moving off...
Est. repair cost: £800-£1,500
DPF Clogging and Vaporiser Failure
ModerateShort 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.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, Reduced power or limp mode...
Est. repair cost: £250-£1,500
Power Folding Seat Mechanism Failure
ModerateThe 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.
Symptoms: Seats will not fold or unfold electrically, Grinding noise from seat motor...
Est. repair cost: £200-£600
Coolant Leaks (Thermostat and Hoses)
ModerateThe thermostat housing, expansion tank and coolant hoses are common leak points as the car ages. Gradual coolant loss can lead to overheating if not caught early. The 1.6 EcoBoost models are also subject to the cylinder-head cracking recall.
Symptoms: Low coolant warning, Sweet smell from engine bay...
Est. repair cost: £80-£900
Buying Tips for the 2006–2009 Ford S-MAX Mk1
- ✓Test the Powershift automatic gearbox thoroughly; juddering or hesitation means a £2k+ repair bill is looming
- ✓Check all 7 seats fold flat and lock into place smoothly; the mechanisms can jam if abused
- ✓Inspect the rear tyres for uneven wear, as the heavy rear end can chew through tyres if the geometry is out
Check Any Vehicle
Don't see your specific car listed? Enter any UK registration number for an instant vehicle history check — including MOT history, tax status, finance check, and write-off data.
Free Vehicle Check