ExhaustHigh
DPF and EGR cooler faults on 2.0 TDCi cars
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Warm up fully, check for warnings and inspect coolant level
2015–2023 Ford S-Max · common problems & known faults
A driver-focused seven-seater that appeals to families and private hire. Diesel emissions hardware and gearbox condition lead the check.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2015–2023 Ford S-Max are DPF and EGR cooler faults on 2.0 TDCi cars, Powershift automatic shudder and harsh engagement and Low oil pressure warning due to wet timing belt degradation blocking the oil pickup strainer. 4 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Ford S-Max.
3.7/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 4
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Ford S-Max problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
TransmissionHigh
Powershift automatic shudder and harsh engagement
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Pull away from cold repeatedly and feel for judder
SuspensionMedium
Front bushes and drop links knocking
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen over rough tarmac and check for uneven tyre wear
ElectricalLow
SYNC infotainment freezing and reversing camera faults
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test the screen, camera and parking sensors before retail
Engine (2.0 EcoBlue Diesel)High
Low oil pressure warning due to wet timing belt degradation blocking the oil pickup strainer.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Open the oil filler cap and shine a torch inside to check for visible belt fraying or debris. Start the engine from cold and ensure the red oil pressure warning light extinguishes immediately.
Engine (1.5 EcoBoost Petrol)High
Coolant intrusion into cylinders causing cold-start misfires and unexplained coolant loss.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Check the coolant expansion tank for low fluid levels. Start the engine from cold, listen for a rough, misfiring idle for the first 30 seconds, and check the exhaust for excessive sweet-smelling white smoke.
Electrical / BodyMedium
Ford Dynamic LED headlight daytime running lights (DRLs) yellowing, flickering, or failing completely.
- Typically appears
- 4-6 years
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on and activate the headlights. Walk to the front and visually inspect both LED DRL strips for colour consistency (look for yellow/brown tinting) and ensure neither side is flickering.
BrakesMedium
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) failing to release due to chafed wiring loom near the rear trailing arms.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- With the engine running, engage and disengage the EPB switch three times. Listen for the rear caliper motors actuating smoothly each time and check the instrument cluster for any yellow EPB malfunction messages.
Inspecting a Ford S-Max?
Get a full, tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Free preview, full report $9.
Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Who buys an S-Max?
Families who refuse to drive an MPV and private hire operators wanting space with pace.
Is the auto a dealbreaker?
A shuddering Powershift is. Test it from cold and price accordingly.
What sells it?
Seven usable seats with full service history and a recent cambelt on diesel cars.
Which engine is the most reliable choice for a family buyer?
The pre-2018 2.0 TDCi is generally the most robust unit, provided it sees regular motorway use to keep the DPF clear. The later 2.0 EcoBlue introduced wet-belt complications, while the 1.5 EcoBoost can suffer from coolant issues under heavy loads. The 2.5 FHEV hybrid is proving reliable but commands a significant premium.
How easy is it to access and use the third-row seating?
The Mk2 S-Max features an Easy Fold system, allowing the second-row seats to slide and tilt forward for reasonable access. However, the third row is strictly for children or short journeys for adults due to limited legroom and a high floor. Boot space is severely restricted to 285 litres when deployed.
What are the servicing intervals, and do they vary by engine?
Most Mk2 S-Max models require servicing every 12,500 miles or 12 months. However, the 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engines feature an intelligent oil life monitor that may request oil changes much sooner, especially if the vehicle is subjected to frequent short journeys or interrupted regenerations. Always check the service history for strict adherence.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.