Ford Galaxy Common Problems and Solutions
Steering Wheel Knocking
Problem:
You can feel a knocking sensation coming from the steering wheel while driving.
Solution:
If your Galaxy has high mileage, it is usually an inner CV joint failure and quite common. While replacing them can take a few hours, it is very straightforward, and inner CV joints are extremely inexpensive on our parts page.
Difficulty level
CV Joint Inner
Power Loss
Problem:
The car has completely lost power and won't start.
Solution:
If your Galaxy was manufactured before 1999, it is highly likely that your mass airflow (MAF) sensor has water damage. Usually, you can replace just the sensor, which is a quick five-minute task. However, if the sensor has been damaged for some time, you will probably need to order a new air intake duct from us and replace the entire assembly.
Difficulty level
Air Flow Mass Sensor
Black Smoke From Exhaust (1.9 TDi)
Problem:
Thick black smoke is emanating from your exhaust.
Solution:
The booster heater metering pump is most likely damaged, so you will need to replace it. However, dense black smoke can also indicate that your burner is oversaturated with unburned fuel. In either case, Ford has made a revised booster heater metering pump available, and it is easy to find on our parts list.
Difficulty level
Emission test Failure
Problem:
Your Galaxy has failed an emissions test.
Solution:
You probably have a faulty check/control valve. Check our parts list for a newer version of the injection pump hose for the secondary injection pump. Remember that you may also need to have your PCM reprogrammed due to the new calibration.
Difficulty level
Fuel Injector Injection Pump
Locked Windscreen Wipers
Problem:
The windscreen wipers have jammed and won't move.
Solution:
This is a common problem with the Ford Galaxy, caused by insufficient lubrication. Your only solution is to find a new windscreen wiper motor from our parts list and replace the burnt-out one.
Difficulty level
Windscreen Wiper Mechanism
Window Failure
Problem:
The windows are neither going up nor down.
Solution:
The window mechanism motor is faulty, which is very common on the Galaxy. Fortunately, it's quite an easy fix, and we always keep replacements in stock that we can deliver to you.
Difficulty level
Window Winder Mechanism
Oil Leak
Problem:
There are visible oil patches or puddles on the road where you've parked.
Solution:
The Galaxy's earlier models are more susceptible to this issue, likely due to a cracked oil sump. The sump is located at the bottom of the engine, and if it has cracked, you can find a replacement on our parts list for the Galaxy. It's advisable to have a software update done by a Ford dealer at the same time, which can help prevent an overheating engine from causing the same damage again.
Difficulty level
Burning Smell (1.5-litre Models)
Problem:
You can smell something burning as the vehicle begins to slow down. You might hear a loud bang or thud.
Solution:
This is relatively uncommon, but it's much more likely to occur if you drive a 1.5-litre model of the Galaxy. The problem here is a cracked clutch pressure plate, and it will be a difficult repair. You can order a replacement plate from us, but they are very fiddly to remove and install. Although replacing an entire clutch is also very challenging, it's easier than working with just the clutch pressure plate.
Difficulty level
Clutch Pressure Plate
Central door locking problems
Problem:
This issue is common on the Galaxy due to the position of the CDL module. It is situated beneath the passenger seat and can sometimes allow water to leak in, as it is located at the lowest point of the footwell.
Solution:
Before you go out and purchase a new module, allow it to dry out and then try it again. Drying it out could solve the problem; otherwise, a new one needs to be fitted.
Difficulty level
Power loss issues
Problem:
These issues are linked to the 1998 Galaxy and mostly occur in the lower gears. The cause could be a loose engine cover that vibrates near the PCV hose to the air intake.
Solution:
Installing dampers beneath the engine cover will resolve this issue.
Difficulty level
Starting problems
Problem:
This problem is commonly linked to the 1999-2000 1.9 Tdi. It has been identified as the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) and may require a replacement. Watch this very short video.
Solution:
As mentioned earlier, you will probably need to have a new PCM fitted. This issue was fixed in subsequent models.
Difficulty level
Power steering belt problem
Problem:
Any Galaxy model before 2000 may be susceptible to the power steering belt slipping in wet driving conditions. This could cause water spray to enter either through the towing eye or the engine undershield.
Solution:
Ensure the engine shield and towing eye are properly fitted, and make adjustments if necessary to prevent this issue. Finally, check the tensioner and replace the belt if needed.
Difficulty level
Tensioner
Speed Control problems
Problem:
A Ford Galaxy made in 2000 is known to have speed control issues. These are usually caused by the speed control vacuum pump which allows water in.
Solution:
A new vacuum pump should be fitted with the correct ventilation pipe to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Vacuum Pump
Booster heater problems
Problem:
Any Galaxy model up to 2003 equipped with a booster heater may produce a strange noise when the heater operates. This is caused by a vibration in the fuel line, which can be heard inside the cabin.
Solution:
Fitting a new fuel line with the correct clips will resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Power steering problem
Problem:
There is usually a knocking noise coming from the front end when turning a corner. This has been identified as the power steering system.
Solution:
This issue can be resolved by installing a low-pressure pipe assembly. This will reduce the knocking noise and improve cornering smoothness.
Difficulty level
Electrical problems
Problem:
There are several electrical issues related to this vehicle. The primary cause has been identified as the connectors in the battery junction box, which tend to come loose.
Solution:
The electrical connectors on the battery must be properly tightened to resolve this issue.
Difficulty level
Gearbox Rattle
Problem:
You can hear rattling noises coming from your gearbox.
Solution:
You will experience a vibration caused by a connection between your gearbox cables and their outer sleeves. This shouldn't impact driving quality, but to eliminate the rattle, you'll need to install a revised gearshift and the selector cables. We have plenty in stock and can deliver them to you if you can't tolerate the rattling sound.
Difficulty level
Gearbox Cables
Speed Control Failure
Problem:
You're not receiving a very good response from the speed control.
Solution:
Water ingress has probably damaged your speed control vacuum pump. Order and fit a new vacuum pump from BreakerYard, along with an extended ventilation hose. This will help prevent the issue from recurring.
Difficulty level
Vacuum Pump
Bumpy Driving
Problem:
You have observed that the drive is becoming increasingly bumpy.
Solution:
If your Galaxy was manufactured between 2015 and 2020, there's a good chance that your rear suspension toe link bolt has corroded. That corrosion will eventually cause it to break, which can result in serious damage to your entire suspension system. If you identify the problem early enough, all you need to do is order and fit a replacement bolt.
Difficulty level
Headlights Turning Off
Problem:
The headlights turn off while you're driving.
Solution:
This can occur if you drive a Galaxy equipped with the added adaptive LED headlights, but it is only a software glitch. Even if your car is no longer under warranty, a Ford dealer can update the software for free and resolve the problem permanently.
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