Ford S-Max 2
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The Ford S-Max II (from 2015) is the modern, noticeably more upmarket successor: better built, quieter, with a tidy interior and still the dynamic chassis that defines the line. As a sporty van it remains the driver's choice among people-movers. The biggest buying warning concerns the EcoBoost petrols: a batch of aluminium cylinder blocks suffered hairline cracks with coolant loss and, at worst, engine failure — check coolant level, oil condition and history especially carefully here. For peace of mind, the widespread 2.0 EcoBlue diesel is usually the more relaxed bet. The Powershift saga continues into this generation too: revised, yes, but juddering and clutch wear remain a risk you should drive out during the test. Structurally important is the rear-axle recall: corrosion on the mounting bolts can let the axle work loose — this recall MUST be done, so check it by VIN. The brake lines are also corrosion-prone, which readily turns into an inspection failure; a look underneath pays off. Electrically, the Sync3 infotainment is known for occasional crashes and restarts, the adaptive headlights can play up, and the stop-start system depends heavily on a healthy AGM battery — a weak battery triggers a whole chain of fault messages. The steering rack develops play over time, the A/C compressor's magnetic clutch can wear, and water ingress remains a theme to check at footwells and boot. Buying tips: get proof the rear-axle recall was done, on the EcoBoost watch meticulously for coolant loss and emulsion at the oil cap, check brake lines and underbody for corrosion, test the AGM battery and check Sync3 for crashes. A well-kept 2.0 EcoBlue with full history and completed recalls is the most solid basis.
240 PS
S-Max · Benzin
EcoBoost Van
Decent150 PS
2.0L EcoBlue TDCi Diesel
12 weaknesses
Stay Away!Generations
Engine Overview
The Ford S-Max 2 is available with 6 engine variants — from 120 to 241 hp. 3 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
Modern common-rail diesel with quiet combustion and good pull from low revs. A timing chain saves the belt change. The DPF and AdBlue need long trips and regular level checks. The NOx sensors are a known weak point that can trigger fault messages. Efficient and durable with correct servicing.
- !! Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019) from 50,000 km
Continental injectors with a faulty internal coating (vehicles built Feb–Sep 2019). The coating delaminates and blocks the injector. Ford service action: free injector replacement (Ford TSB-20-2335). Affected vehicles: Transit, Ranger, Focus, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy, Edge.
Symptoms: Hesitation, poor idle, power reduction, increased fuel consumption, limp mode - !! DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion from 80,000 km
Faulty injectors generate excessive soot that prematurely clogs the DPF. On the high-output variant (190 hp), soot also blocks the low-pressure filter of the dual EGR system. Repair requires simultaneous replacement of injectors AND DPF (TSB-20-2335). Replacing the DPF alone does not resolve the issue long-term.
Symptoms: Fault codes P2002, P02EC, P02FA, check engine light, power reduction - !! Oil Bath Belt Clogs Oil Pump Strainer from 100,000 km
The oil bath timing belt deteriorates and clogs the oil pump strainer with debris. The engine dies from oil starvation — bearings, crankshaft, camshaft, and turbocharger are destroyed.
Symptoms: No warning: oil pressure drops, engine runs roughly, then total failure. Belt itself may appear visually intact.
+ 7 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Stronger variant of the EcoBlue range with hefty torque and effortless pull even under load. The timing chain is designed for long service life. The DPF and AdBlue need long trips and level checks. Keep an eye on the EGR and boost routing. With clean oil servicing and enough motorway use, a capable, efficient diesel.
- !! Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019) from 50,000 km
Continental injectors with a faulty internal coating (vehicles built Feb–Sep 2019). The coating delaminates and blocks the injector. Ford service action: free injector replacement (Ford TSB-20-2335). Affected vehicles: Transit, Ranger, Focus, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy, Edge.
Symptoms: Hesitation, poor idle, power reduction, increased fuel consumption, limp mode - !! DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion from 80,000 km
Faulty injectors generate excessive soot that prematurely clogs the DPF. On the high-output variant (190 hp), soot also blocks the low-pressure filter of the dual EGR system. Repair requires simultaneous replacement of injectors AND DPF (TSB-20-2335). Replacing the DPF alone does not resolve the issue long-term.
Symptoms: Fault codes P2002, P02EC, P02FA, check engine light, power reduction - !! Wet Belt Blocks Oil Pump Strainer from 100,000 km
The wet timing belt disintegrates and blocks the oil pump strainer with debris. The engine dies from oil starvation — bearings, crankshaft, camshaft, and turbocharger are destroyed.
Symptoms: No warning: oil pressure drops, engine runs rough, then total failure. The belt itself can look intact visually.
+ 7 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Lower power level of the EcoBlue range with refined combustion and frugal consumption. The timing chain is designed for low maintenance. The DPF and AdBlue need enough long trips and level checks, otherwise regeneration stalls. The EGR tends to soot up in short-haul use. Economical and durable with clean care.
- !! Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019) from 50,000 km
Continental injectors with a faulty internal coating (vehicles built Feb–Sep 2019). The coating delaminates and blocks the injector. Ford service action: free injector replacement (Ford TSB-20-2335). Affected vehicles: Transit, Ranger, Focus, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy, Edge.
Symptoms: Hesitation, poor idle, power reduction, increased fuel consumption, limp mode - !! DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion from 80,000 km
Faulty injectors generate excessive soot that prematurely clogs the DPF. On the high-output variant (190 hp), soot also blocks the low-pressure filter of the dual EGR system. Repair requires simultaneous replacement of injectors AND DPF (TSB-20-2335). Replacing the DPF alone does not resolve the issue long-term.
Symptoms: Fault codes P2002, P02EC, P02FA, check engine light, power reduction - !! Oil Bath Belt Clogs Oil Pump Strainer from 100,000 km
The oil bath timing belt deteriorates and clogs the oil pump strainer with debris. The engine dies from oil starvation — bearings, crankshaft, camshaft, and turbocharger are destroyed.
Symptoms: No warning: oil pressure drops, engine runs roughly, then total failure. Belt itself may appear visually intact.
+ 7 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Common-rail diesel with two-stage turbocharging for strong low-end punch and good top-end power. The more complex boost setup raises care effort: keep an eye on turbos, control and hoses. The DPF and AdBlue need long trips. The timing chain is durable. Gutsy, but technically more demanding to maintain.
- !! Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019) from 50,000 km
Continental injectors with a faulty internal coating (vehicles built Feb–Sep 2019). The coating delaminates and blocks the injector. Ford service action: free injector replacement (Ford TSB-20-2335). Affected vehicles: Transit, Ranger, Focus, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy, Edge.
Symptoms: Hesitation, poor idle, power reduction, increased fuel consumption, limp mode - !! DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion from 80,000 km
Faulty injectors generate excessive soot that prematurely clogs the DPF. On the high-output variant (190 hp), soot also blocks the low-pressure filter of the dual EGR system. Repair requires simultaneous replacement of injectors AND DPF (TSB-20-2335). Replacing the DPF alone does not resolve the issue long-term.
Symptoms: Fault codes P2002, P02EC, P02FA, check engine light, power reduction - !! Bi-Turbo Boost Control Failure from 100,000 km
The bi-turbo of the 2.0 EcoBlue 190 hp can fail to regulate boost correctly under high load (e.g. towing). Limp mode activates; fault code P2599 is typical.
Symptoms: Engine limp mode under full load, whistling on acceleration, limp mode activation, power loss
+ 8 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Modern common-rail diesel with quiet, refined combustion and strong pull from low revs. A timing chain saves belt changes. The DPF and AdBlue need enough long-distance use and level checks. NOx sensors can throw faults over time. Efficient and durable as long as servicing and oil quality are right.
- !! Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019) from 50,000 km
Continental injectors with a faulty internal coating (vehicles built Feb–Sep 2019). The coating delaminates and blocks the injector. Ford service action: free injector replacement (Ford TSB-20-2335). Affected vehicles: Transit, Ranger, Focus, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy, Edge.
Symptoms: Hesitation, poor idle, power reduction, increased fuel consumption, limp mode - !! DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion from 80,000 km
Faulty injectors generate excessive soot that prematurely clogs the DPF. On the high-output variant (190 hp), soot also blocks the low-pressure filter of the dual EGR system. Repair requires simultaneous replacement of injectors AND DPF (TSB-20-2335). Replacing the DPF alone does not resolve the issue long-term.
Symptoms: Fault codes P2002, P02EC, P02FA, check engine light, power reduction - !! VGT Actuator Failure from 140,000 km
The variable turbine geometry actuator on the bi-turbo system fails electrically or mechanically. Often only the electric motor is faulty, but Ford supplies only the complete turbocharger.
Symptoms: Sudden power loss, limp mode, fault codes P0299 or P0045 in ECU.
+ 9 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Mid power level of the modern EcoBlue range with good refinement and balanced pull. The timing chain is designed for low maintenance. The DPF and AdBlue need regular long trips and level checks, otherwise exhaust aftertreatment suffers. Keep an eye on the EGR and sensors. A frugal, everyday-capable diesel.
- !! Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019) from 50,000 km
Continental injectors with a faulty internal coating (vehicles built Feb–Sep 2019). The coating delaminates and blocks the injector. Ford service action: free injector replacement (Ford TSB-20-2335). Affected vehicles: Transit, Ranger, Focus, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy, Edge.
Symptoms: Hesitation, poor idle, power reduction, increased fuel consumption, limp mode - !! DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion from 80,000 km
Faulty injectors generate excessive soot that prematurely clogs the DPF. On the high-output variant (190 hp), soot also blocks the low-pressure filter of the dual EGR system. Repair requires simultaneous replacement of injectors AND DPF (TSB-20-2335). Replacing the DPF alone does not resolve the issue long-term.
Symptoms: Fault codes P2002, P02EC, P02FA, check engine light, power reduction - !! Oil Bath Belt Clogs Oil Pump Strainer from 100,000 km
The oil bath timing belt disintegrates and clogs the oil pump strainer with debris particles. The engine dies from oil starvation — bearings, crankshaft, camshaft and turbocharger are destroyed.
Symptoms: No prior warning: oil pressure drops, engine runs rough, then total destruction. Belt itself may look intact visually.
+ 7 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Higher output stage of the EcoBlue range with strong torque and effortless pull. The base design with a timing chain is built for long service life. The DPF and AdBlue need long trips and level checks. Under higher load, the cooling system and boost routing are worth checking. Efficient and capable with good care.
- !! Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019) from 50,000 km
Continental injectors with a faulty internal coating (vehicles built Feb–Sep 2019). The coating delaminates and blocks the injector. Ford service action: free injector replacement (Ford TSB-20-2335). Affected vehicles: Transit, Ranger, Focus, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy, Edge.
Symptoms: Hesitation, poor idle, power reduction, increased fuel consumption, limp mode - !! DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion from 80,000 km
Faulty injectors generate excessive soot that prematurely clogs the DPF. On the high-output variant (190 hp), soot also blocks the low-pressure filter of the dual EGR system. Repair requires simultaneous replacement of injectors AND DPF (TSB-20-2335). Replacing the DPF alone does not resolve the issue long-term.
Symptoms: Fault codes P2002, P02EC, P02FA, check engine light, power reduction - !! Oil Bath Belt Clogs Oil Pump Strainer from 100,000 km
The oil bath timing belt disintegrates and clogs the oil pump strainer with debris particles. The engine dies from oil starvation — bearings, crankshaft, camshaft and turbocharger are destroyed.
Symptoms: No prior warning: oil pressure drops, engine runs rough, then total destruction. Belt itself may look intact visually.
+ 7 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Lower-output version of the modern common-rail diesel with timing chain and AdBlue. Power suffices for relaxed driving; this engine is not built for sport. The particulate filter and SCR system need regular long-distance running for clean regeneration. The correct oil spec and scheduled servicing are mandatory. Economical and smooth-running when the duty profile matches the emissions tech.
- !! Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019) from 50,000 km
Continental injectors with a faulty internal coating (vehicles built Feb–Sep 2019). The coating delaminates and blocks the injector. Ford service action: free injector replacement (Ford TSB-20-2335). Affected vehicles: Transit, Ranger, Focus, Mondeo, S-Max, Galaxy, Edge.
Symptoms: Hesitation, poor idle, power reduction, increased fuel consumption, limp mode - !! DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion from 80,000 km
Faulty injectors generate excessive soot that prematurely clogs the DPF. On the high-output variant (190 hp), soot also blocks the low-pressure filter of the dual EGR system. Repair requires simultaneous replacement of injectors AND DPF (TSB-20-2335). Replacing the DPF alone does not resolve the issue long-term.
Symptoms: Fault codes P2002, P02EC, P02FA, check engine light, power reduction - !! High-Pressure Pump Failure from 160,000 km
The high-pressure pump on the 2.0 TDCi 132 kW typically fails from 150,000 km. Failed pumps can shed metal particles into the fuel system and damage injectors.
Symptoms: Poor or no start, severe power loss, fault codes P0087 (rail pressure too low).
+ 7 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Turbocharged four-cylinder with cylinder deactivation for low part-load consumption and decent output. The timing chain is built robustly, though cold-start noise is worth noting. Check the cooling system regularly for tightness and level. Direct injection encourages valve coking. With the right oil, a frugal, lively engine.
- !! Engine Block Hairline Cracks (Pre-2019) from 90,000 km
The 1.5 EcoBoost UNCI (Focus MK4 early build) is affected by the known engine block hairline cracks. Revised block from mid-2019. Check older examples carefully for coolant loss before purchase.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke, foaming coolant in expansion tank - !! Cylinder Head Crack from Coolant Underfill from 80,000 km
The 1.5 EcoBoost four-cylinder (up to model year 2019) is susceptible to cylinder head damage from undetected coolant loss. Overheating leads to cylinder head cracking and fire risk.
Symptoms: Sudden coolant loss without warning, engine overheating, power loss, burning smell - !! Hairline Crack in Engine Block — Coolant Ingestion (up to MY 2019) from 60,000 km
Early 1.5 EcoBoost four-cylinders (up to approximately March 2019) are prone to hairline cracks in the cylinder block. Coolant enters the cylinders and causes severe engine damage. Short block replacement required.
Symptoms: Rough cold start, white smoke from exhaust, coolant loss with no external leak, check engine light.
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Turbocharged three-cylinder with direct injection and good torque from a small displacement. The critical item is the oil-bath timing belt, whose material ages and can fail with severe consequences if the change is neglected. Check the cooling system regularly. With strict belt and oil servicing, a frugal, lively engine.
- !! Hairline Cracks in Cylinder Block (Pre-2019) from 90,000 km
The 1.5 EcoBoost C15HDTX (Focus ST-Line, Mondeo MK5 ST-Line) belongs to the affected engine generation with hairline cracks in the cylinder block. Revised block fitted from mid-2019 onwards.
Symptoms: Dropping coolant level, white exhaust smoke, foam in coolant expansion tank - !! Turbocharger Wear from Diluted Oil from 160,000 km
Fuel-diluted engine oil can impair turbo bearing lubrication and lead to premature bearing wear. Especially during frequent cold-start full-throttle use.
Symptoms: Whistling from turbo, bluish smoke, boost pressure loss - !! Hairline Crack in Cylinder Block — Coolant Ingestion (pre-2019) from 60,000 km
Early 1.5 EcoBoost four-cylinder engines (up to approx. March 2019) are prone to hairline cracks in the cylinder block. Coolant enters the cylinders and causes severe engine damage. Short-block replacement required.
Symptoms: Rough cold start, white smoke from exhaust, coolant loss without external leak, check engine light.
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Higher-output turbo petrol with direct injection and strong torque across a wide band. Boost control and the related hoses are a care point with mileage. The timing chain holds up with clean oil servicing. Direct injection can coke the valves. Watch the cooling system. Lively and gutsy when warmed up and cared for.
- !! Engine block hairline cracks from 100,000 km
The 2.0L EcoBoost R9CD (S-Max MK2, early Galaxy MK3) belongs to the engine generation with known engine block hairline cracks. Check coolant level and condition carefully before buying.
Symptoms: Coolant loss, white exhaust smoke, foamy coolant reservoir - !! PowerShift Dual-Clutch Wear from 80,000 km
The PowerShift gearbox in the S-Max/Galaxy with R9CD shows the known shudder and slip issues. Gearbox oil change every 60,000 km is essential; neglected servicing causes clutch damage.
Symptoms: Shudder on pull-away, slipping clutches in low gears, gearbox fault - !! Timing Chain / Chain Tensioner from 130,000 km
The 2.0 EcoBoost uses a timing chain whose tensioner can wear from around 120,000 km. Rattling on cold start is an early sign; if ignored, engine damage follows.
Symptoms: Metallic rattle on cold start, rough running, warning light
+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Atkinson full hybrid combining a frugal naturally aspirated petrol with timing chain and a strong electric motor. The interplay is well sorted, running almost silently and very economically in city traffic. The combustion engine works in its efficiency sweet spot and stays mechanically undramatic. Watch the high-voltage battery condition and the cooling system. A mature, everyday-capable hybrid setup.
- !! eCVT Planetary Gearbox Failure from 150,000 km
The eCVT hybrid gearbox (electric drive + planetary gear set) can fail at very high mileages or from leaking shaft seals. Servicing as a sealed unit is very expensive.
Symptoms: Judder or rattling when pulling away, gearbox fault message, loss of drive. - !! Head Gasket Failure from 80,000 km
The 2.3 EcoBoost 206 kW (Focus ST) is prone to head gasket failure from high thermal stress. Spirited driving significantly accelerates wear.
Symptoms: Coolant loss without external leak, white exhaust clouds on cold start, overheating warning. - !! DC-DC Converter Failure — 12V System Collapse from 100,000 km
The DC-DC converter that steps down HV battery voltage to 12V can fail and cause the 12V electrical system to collapse. Reported sporadically on the C-Max/Kuga Hybrid with Atkinson engine.
Symptoms: All warning lights illuminate simultaneously; vehicle immobilised; 12V battery no longer charged; system errors on SYNC display.
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| EcoBoost engine block: hairline cracks causing coolant loss The 1.5- and 2.0-litre EcoBoost engines in the S-Max II are susceptible to hairline cracks in the engine block, causing coolant loss and in the worst case engine damage. Particularly affected are model years before mid-2019. Symptoms: Falling coolant level with no visible external leak, white smoke from the exhaust, engine overheating, rough idle on cold start. from 80,000 km | High |
Test Reports
TÜV Report 2026
Oil leaks are chronic and worsen with age. The emissions test is failed at above-average rates.
2025-11ADAC Breakdown Statistics 2025
The S-Max shows elevated failure rates in the breakdown statistics, typical of Ford family haulers.
2025-04Alternatives
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 126 weaknesses have been documented for the Ford S-Max 2 (2015–2023) — 112 engine-related and 14 vehicle-related. 9 problem engines: T7CI (2.0L EcoBlue TDCi), T8CG (2.0L EcoBlue TDCi), T9CB (2.0L EcoBlue TDCi), R9CD (2.0L EcoBoost), YMCB (2.0L EcoBlue), BCCC (2.0L EcoBlue), YLCB (2.0L EcoBlue Bi-Turbo), YNCA (2.0L EcoBlue), T7CJ (2.0L EcoBlue TDCi). Typical issues affect Cooling, Gearbox, Suspension, Electronics.
S-Max (T7CI, 2015–2019) — Stay Away!: Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019), DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion, VGT Actuator Failure. Power: 150 PS.
S-Max (T8CG, 2015–2019) — Stay Away!: Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019), DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion, Oil Bath Belt Clogs Oil Pump Strainer. Power: 180 PS.
S-Max (T9CB, 2015–2019) — Stay Away!: Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019), DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion, Oil Bath Belt Clogs Oil Pump Strainer. Power: 210 PS.
S-Max (T7CJ, 2015–2019) — Stay Away!: Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019), DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion, High-Pressure Pump Failure. Power: 120 PS.
S-Max (YMCB, 2018–2023) — Stay Away!: Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019), DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion, Oil Bath Belt Clogs Oil Pump Strainer. Power: 150 PS.
S-Max (BCCC, 2018–2023) — Stay Away!: Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019), DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion, Wet Belt Blocks Oil Pump Strainer. Power: 190 PS.
S-Max (YLCB, 2018–2023) — Stay Away!: Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019), DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion, Bi-Turbo Boost Control Failure. Power: 240 PS.
S-Max (YNCA, 2018–2023) — Stay Away!: Continental Injector Coating Defect (2019), DPF Clogging from Injector Soot Ingestion, Oil Bath Belt Clogs Oil Pump Strainer. Power: 120 PS.
S-Max (R9CD, 2015–2019) — Stay Away!: Engine block hairline cracks, PowerShift Dual-Clutch Wear, Timing Chain / Chain Tensioner. Power: 240 PS.
S-Max (UNCI, 2015–2019) — Be Careful: Engine Block Hairline Cracks (Pre-2019), Cylinder Head Crack from Coolant Underfill, Hairline Crack in Engine Block — Coolant Ingestion (up to MY 2019). Power: 160 PS.
S-Max (C15HDTX, 2018–2023) — Be Careful: Hairline Cracks in Cylinder Block (Pre-2019), Turbocharger Wear from Diluted Oil, Hairline Crack in Cylinder Block — Coolant Ingestion (pre-2019). Power: 165 PS.
S-Max (BGCA, 2021–2023) — Be Careful: eCVT Planetary Gearbox Failure, Head Gasket Failure, DC-DC Converter Failure — 12V System Collapse. Power: 190 PS.
What to watch out for with the Ford S-Max? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Ford S-Max 2 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Ford S-Max 2? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Ford S-Max 2 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Ford S-Max 2 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Ford S-Max 2? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee