2011 Ford S-Max: petrol or diesel?
Petrol, diesel and hybrid versions go wrong in different ways, so each has its own figures from the MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Pick the one you’re looking at: the fuel is on the logbook and in the car’s MOT history.
Hybrid versions had too few MOTs for figures of their own, or weren’t sold.
Known faults on every 2011 Ford S-Max
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- All engines
Water getting in and damaging wiring
Blocked ventilation drains are common and can let water damage the wiring loom, with big bills.
At the viewing: Look for damp carpets and water marks, and test all the electrics.
- Some cars
Hard brake pedal and fuel recalls
Recalls covered a sticking brake valve that made the pedal hard (built Nov 2005 to Dec 2006 and Nov 2008 to Mar 2009), a loose fuel pipe that could cut the engine (built Feb to June 2006), panoramic sunroofs (2008 and 2010) and a fuel leak (2013).
At the viewing: Ask a Ford dealer to check the VIN for outstanding recalls.
- Early cars
Electrical faults (early cars)
Early cars are prone to electrical gremlins. Check the air con, heated rear screen, auto lights, stereo and front parking sensors.
At the viewing: Test every electrical item.
- All engines
Power steering faults
The power steering can develop faults, shown by noises or odd feel.
At the viewing: Turn lock to lock and listen.
Looking at a Ford S-Max?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Ford S-Max compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2024 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2022 | 796 | Tyres 26% |
| 2021 | 1,500 | Tyres 29% |
| 2020 | 3,445 | Tyres 29% |
| 2019 | 6,889 | Tyres 32% |
| 2018 | 7,128 | Tyres 34% |
| 2017 | 15,741 | Tyres 35% |
| 2016 | 20,447 | Tyres 36% |
| 2015 | 9,826 | Tyres 38% |
| 2014 | 19,428 | Tyres 41% |
| 2013 | 18,553 | Tyres 41% |
| 2012 | 20,783 | Suspension 43% |
| 2010 | 26,056 | Suspension 48% |
| 2009 | 17,396 | Suspension 53% |
| 2008 | 13,456 | Suspension 59% |
| 2007 | 13,655 | Suspension 61% |
| 2006 | 4,441 | Suspension 62% |