IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2021 Ford S-MAX Mk2

In 2021 Ford replaced every S-Max engine with a 2.5-litre petrol hybrid, a 190PS front-drive powertrain with a CVT, and kept the model on sale until April 2023.

What changed for 2021

  • •2.5-litre Duratec hybrid with 190PS, a 1.1kWh battery and a 133PS traction motor
  • •CVT automatic replaces the manual, Powershift and eight-speed automatic options
  • •Diesel and EcoBoost engines withdrawn from the UK range

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Hybrid battery cooling faults and reduced electric assistance
  • !Brake disc pitting from regenerative braking
  • !Rear suspension bushes and springs worn by the heavier hybrid drivetrain
2
Known Issues
1
Serious
0
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Electric Power Steering (EPAS) Motor Drive Belt Snapping & Sudden Assist Loss

SeriousSteering

The internal toothed belt driving the recirculating ball steering rack from the electric assist motor degrades from road spray and salt, snapping and instantly leaving the driver with heavy unassisted steering.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,400
Warning Signs:

Sudden heavy steering with "Steering Assist Fault" warning message, High-pitched whirring from steering rack when turning wheel, Notchy steering feel around straight ahead

What to Inspect:
  • Rotate steering wheel lock-to-lock at idle listening for belt slipping or grinding
  • Scan for EPAS steering angle sensor or motor torque fault codes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Panoramic Glass Sunroof Roller Blind Guide Rail Jam & Motor Strip

MinorInterior & Trim

The cables and plastic guide runners for the electric panoramic roof roller blind jump their tracks or snap, jamming the blind in a half-open position and stripping the plastic motor drive gears.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£550
Warning Signs:

Roller blind moves unevenly or catches on one side, Grinding or clicking sound from overhead console when operating blind, Blind stuck open or closed

What to Inspect:
  • Operate panoramic sunblind fully open and fully closed multiple times
  • Listen for clicking gear teeth in the roof lining
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2021 Ford S-MAX Mk2

  • Check the hybrid battery health and that the cooling fan runs quietly
  • Test low-speed electric-to-engine transitions for hesitation
  • Confirm the CVT has had its fluid service and software updates
20202022–2023
Check a 2021 Ford S-MAX Mk2 by Registration