2023 Ford S-Max: known problems and what to check

Known faults on the 2023 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.

• Oil pump belt that runs in oil (2.0 EcoBlue diesel)

  2.0 EcoBlue diesel (most Ford 2.0 diesels from about 2018)

  The 2.0 EcoBlue diesel drives its oil pump with a belt that runs in the engine oil. As it wears it can shed rubber and cut oil pressure, which can wreck the engine. Ford has shortened the change interval on the Transit to 6 years or 100,000 miles.

  At the viewing: Ask when the oil pump belt was last changed, and watch for an oil-pressure warning light.

  Source: Parkers: everything you need to know about the Ford wet belt

• May have a timing belt that runs in oil (1.5 EcoBoost)

  1.5 EcoBoost petrol

  Ford used both wet timing belts and timing chains on its 1.5 EcoBoost petrol. A wet belt can break down if oil changes are late, starving the engine of oil. A Ford dealer can tell you from the VIN which this car has.

  At the viewing: Ask whether it has a belt or a chain, and for a full service history with the right oil.

  Source: Parkers: everything you need to know about the Ford wet belt

Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2023 Ford S-Max

Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.

1. Has the oil pump belt been changed, and is there a full service history?
2. Does it have a timing belt or chain, and when was the belt last changed?
3. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?

What to check on a 2023 car

• Warranty left

  Ask for the date it was first registered and check how much of the maker’s warranty is left, and that it transfers to you. Electric and hybrid batteries usually have a longer, separate warranty.

• Servicing

  Servicing on time with the maker’s schedule keeps the warranty valid. Ask for the service book or the dealer’s digital record.

• Finance

  Nearly new cars are often still on finance. A history check shows outstanding finance, and whether it has been written off or stolen.

• Recalls

  Ask whether any recall work has been done, and check the reg on GOV.UK’s free recall checker.

• Logbook (V5C)

  The name and address should match the seller, and the VIN on the V5C should match the car.

Check for recalls on GOV.UK