Cost of Ownership and Common Problems: 2014 Ford S-Max (WA6) 2.2 TDCi

Thank you for using our cost-of-ownership calculator and analysis tool. We're glad you're considering the 2014 Ford S-Max (WA6) with the 2.2 TDCi engine, a spacious and versatile MPV that has been a favorite among families in the UK. This article dives deep into the real-world ownership costs, reliability issues, and common problems for this model, particularly at high mileage of 300,000 km. We'll cover everything from depreciation and maintenance to fuel efficiency and potential repair bills, helping you make an informed decision.

Estimated Market Price

In the UK market, the 2014 Ford S-Max (WA6) 2.2 TDCi typically sells for between £4,000 and £8,000 for used examples, depending on condition and mileage. At 300,000 km, expect prices around £3,500 to £5,500 for a well-maintained vehicle. New models from 2014 originally retailed for about £25,000 to £35,000, while certified pre-owned options are rare now but could fetch £6,000 to £7,000 if available through Ford dealers. Prices are shown in GBP.

Depreciation — Past Year

Over the past year in the UK, the 2014 Ford S-Max 2.2 TDCi has depreciated by approximately £800 to £1,200, representing a 15-20% loss in value. High-mileage examples like those at 300,000 km have seen steeper drops due to wear concerns, with average values falling from £5,500 to £4,500.

Depreciation Forecast

Looking ahead, expect continued depreciation for this high-mileage model. Over the next 1 year, it could lose another 10-15% (£500-£700), bringing resale value to £3,000-£4,000. In 3 years, total loss might reach 30-40% from current (£1,500-£2,000 drop), valuing it at £2,000-£3,500. By 5 years, with ongoing maintenance needs, it may depreciate 50-60% overall, reselling for £1,500-£2,500 in the UK market.

Breakdown Frequency & Repair Costs

The 2014 Ford S-Max 2.2 TDCi experiences breakdowns every 15,000-20,000 km on average, particularly at high mileage like 300,000 km, due to engine and suspension wear. In the UK, the average repair bill for unscheduled issues is £400-£800, with major breakdowns (e.g., turbo failure) costing up to £1,500. Reliability surveys from sources like What Car? rate it as average for its class, with 20-25% of owners reporting issues annually.

Engine Reliability & Repair Costs

The 2.2 TDCi engine is generally reliable but suffers at high mileage of 300,000 km. It scores 7/10 for reliability, with common issues including turbocharger failure (£800-£1,200 repair), diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging (£500-£900), and injector problems (£400-£700 each). At this mileage, timing chain stretch is a risk (£1,000-£1,500 to fix), and oil leaks from seals are frequent (£200-£400). In the UK, expect engine rebuilds to cost £2,000-£4,000 if neglected.

Transmission & Gearbox Reliability

The 6-speed manual or Powershift automatic gearbox in the 2014 S-Max is moderately reliable, rated 6/10. Common failures include clutch wear in manuals (£600-£900 replacement) and mechatronic unit issues in automatics (£1,000-£2,000). Drivetrain problems like dual-mass flywheel failure add £800-£1,200. At 300,000 km, gearbox rebuilds in the UK average £1,500-£2,500, with failures occurring every 150,000-200,000 km.

Electrical System & Multimedia Reliability

Electronics in the S-Max are a weak point, with a 5/10 reliability rating. Common issues include faulty infotainment screens (£300-£600 repair), battery drain from sensors (£100-£200), and ABS module failures (£400-£800). At high mileage, wiring harness degradation leads to intermittent faults. In the UK, typical repair costs for multimedia systems range from £200-£500, while full electrical diagnostics and fixes average £300-£700.

Suspension & Chassis Reliability

Suspension reliability is average at 6/10, with bushings and ball joints wearing out every 80,000-100,000 km (£200-£400 per side). At 300,000 km, shocks and springs often need replacement (£500-£800 for front/rear). Chassis rust is minimal, but control arm failures cost £300-£600. In the UK, full suspension refresh for high-mileage models runs £800-£1,200.

Body & Exterior

Paint quality is good, but rust protection rates 7/10, with wheel arches and underbody prone to corrosion in the UK climate (£300-£600 for repairs). Spare parts availability is excellent via Ford dealers and aftermarket. Bumpers cost £150-£300, fenders £100-£200, windscreen £200-£400, and chrome trim £50-£150. Body panels are affordable and widely available in GBP.

Scheduled Maintenance Costs

For the 2.2 TDCi at 300,000 km, routine services every 20,000 km or annually cost £250-£400 in the UK. This includes oil change (£80-£120 with synthetic oil), filters (£50-£80 for air/fuel/oil), brake pads (£100-£200 per axle), and no spark plugs (diesel). The timing chain doesn't require routine replacement but inspection is advised (£100). At this mileage, expect additional costs for coolant flush (£100) and belt replacements (£150-£250).

Taxes, Registration & Insurance

In the UK, annual road tax for the 2.2 TDCi is £180-£265 based on emissions. Registration fees are £55 initially, with renewals minimal. Average insurance costs £500-£800 per year for a 40-year-old driver with full coverage, higher for high-mileage vehicles due to repair risks. All figures in GBP.

Fuel / Energy Costs

The 2.2 TDCi averages 6.5-7.5 L/100km combined. At current UK diesel prices of £1.50/L, monthly fuel for 1,000 km driving is £100-£115, or £1,200-£1,380 annually. For higher mileage, costs scale accordingly.

Tyres

Factory-recommended sizes are 215/55 R16 or 225/50 R17. OEM Ford tyres cost £100-£140 each, while quality alternatives like Michelin or Continental are £80-£120 per tyre in the UK. Expect replacement every 40,000-50,000 km, totaling £400-£560 for a set including fitting.

Filters & Consumables

Cabin air filter: £15-£25; oil filter: £10-£20; air filter: £20-£30; fuel filter: £25-£40. Other consumables like brake fluid (£10-£15) and wiper blades (£20-£30 pair) are inexpensive and available at UK auto parts stores.

Total Annual Ownership Cost

Pros & Cons

What to Check Before Buying

For a 2014 S-Max 2.2 TDCi at 300,000 km, inspect the turbo for smoke, DPF regeneration history, timing chain noise, and clutch/gearbox smoothness. Check suspension bushes, electrical faults via diagnostic scan, and underbody rust. Verify service history, especially oil changes, and test for EGR valve issues. A full AA or RAC inspection (£100-£200) is recommended to avoid hidden costs.

Verdict

At £3,500-£5,500, the 2014 Ford S-Max 2.2 TDCi offers good value for a high-mileage family hauler if well-maintained, but reliability concerns at 300,000 km make it risky. It's worth buying for budget-conscious buyers who can handle DIY repairs, but avoid if you prioritize low downtime. Overall recommendation: Buy with caution—thorough inspection essential; consider lower-mileage alternatives for peace of mind.