Ford S-Max Common Problems and Solutions
Turbo problems
Problem:
If your S-Max is feeling a bit sluggish and you are noticing blue smoke coming from the exhaust, then you most likely have a broken turbo.
Solution:
The only solution to this is to fit a new turbo.
Difficulty level
Clutch problems
Problem:
If there is a really bad smell coming through your air conditioning system you could have a burnt out clutch. This has been known to happen on the newer Ford S-Max.
Solution:
Try getting it fixed under warranty or it will be a very costly repair to fit a new clutch. Fitting the new clutch is sadly the only solution to this problem.
Difficulty level
Cubby lock failure
Problem:
If you are noticing that the lock on the cubby between the front seats is not working then you will need to replace the lock to solve the problem.
Solution:
If your vehicle is still under warranty, then the dealer will fix the problem for you, otherwise you will have to buy the lock yourself.
Difficulty level
Banging noise at B-pillar
Problem:
If you are hearing a real banging noise coming from the B-pillar.
Solution:
You will need to apply some carbon grease to the joints to stop the noise.
Difficulty level
Water leaking into passenger side
Problem:
If you are noticing water leaking into the passenger footwell, then it is most likely that the air conditioning hose is leaking. This is due to poor fitting when originally being manufactured.
Solution:
The fitting of the air-conditioning hose will need to be sorted to stop the leaking.
Difficulty level
Tyre wear
Problem:
The tyres are known to wear down unusually fast, especially on vehicles that have Goodyear tyres on them.
Solution:
The only thing to do in this situation is to try fitting a different make of tyres.
Difficulty level
Window wiper problem
Problem:
If you are finding that that your window wipers are not switching off and you have an 'alarm service required' message light on the dashboard, there is a problem with the alarm horn. Water is known to leak into the alarm horn, damaging it.
Solution:
You will have to replace the alarm horn to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
