ElectricalLow
SYNC infotainment freezing and reversing camera faults
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test the screen, camera and parking sensors before retail
2023 Ford S-Max problems
A 2023 Ford S-Max is now 3 years old, so an average example has covered around 40,500 miles. The final model year of the generation · generally the most sorted build, so mileage, servicing and condition matter more than build-year faults. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2023 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
The 2023 Ford S-Max is 3 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 40,500 miles. At that mileage most documented faults are still ahead of it, so servicing evidence matters more than wear. A further 3 typically appear later in the car's life.
Faults that appear at any mileage
Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.
Faults still ahead of this car
Typically appear later than this year's average mileage · worth budgeting for rather than inspecting.
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
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
Inspecting a 2023 Ford S-Max?
Generate a tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact year, mileage and variant · add photos and notes as you inspect.
Check this exact carFord S-Max · frequently 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.