1.8 diesel known problems

[sobaka]

Ok I will start doing some posts with known problems (already! we are at less than three years the car was released). This one about the most popular diesel model.

Problems seen so far:

- biggest problem is battery drain

many smaxers reported battery drain issue up to the point it is not possible to start the car any more

Cars effected - earlier build 2006-beginning 2007

fix - ford are fitting a more powerful alternator the one used with 2.0 litre engine or the 1.8 with heated windscreen on some models.

If you are looking to buy a 2006-2007 smax ask the owner or a garage if this has been done.

I count on 1.8 diesel owners on this site to complete this list as it is not the motor I am driving.