Hi all,

 

just bought a 2012 s max auto and within 30 minutes of driving it I got this message? It then went from amber to red and into limp mode! It was a private sale and he now will not answer my calls. I’ve had the gearbox oil changed and the filter changed and drove for around an hour, it seems juddery going down the gears but then got the message again? Battery voltage was checked and seemed ok. Please help?? Is it dead.💀 

2 minutes ago, Jodie87 said:

Battery voltage was checked and seemed ok.

What is the definition of seems OK ?

Is the battery standing voltage at least 12.30V ? Are the main engine earth straps in good condition ?

The mechanic tested it it was over 12, I’m sorry I know absolutely nothing.

when the message came up the first time it did say low battery but since the gear box service that message has disappeared.

 

11 minutes ago, unofix said:

What is the definition of seems OK ?

Is the battery standing voltage at least 12.30V ? Are the main engine earth straps in good condition ?

I will take photos of the battery tomorrow when it’s light because I literally have no idea what I’m looking at. Thank you 

5 minutes ago, Jodie87 said:

came up the first time it did say low battery

I'd suspect that your battery either needs a good 12 hour charge, or, you need a new battery.

13 hours ago, unofix said:

I'd suspect that your battery either needs a good 12 hour charge, or, you need a new battery.

How likely is it that I’ve been sold the car with the gear box knackered? 

1 hour ago, Jodie87 said:

I’ve been sold the car with the gear box knackered? 

I'd say 50/50

51 minutes ago, unofix said:

I'd say 50/50

Thank you for your answers, do u know the most obvious signs that the gear box is gone? I just don’t have copious amounts of money to spend so may need to sell for scrap

From my long term ownership with no issues (famous last words!)

Need to be certain that the oil and filter have been changed correctly.

Edit: If there was any evidence of plastic grains in the filter or oil, that would likely be serious - again, for problems of this type looking at everything to find symptoms is crucial!

Remember, it's NOT just "top up until oil comes out of the plug on the side" which is not a "level plug" - there is a detailed procedure needed - check this with your mechanic?)

As stated, ensure the earth straps (presumably the ones under the air filter?) are cleaned up (this is likely a simple job to rule out poor connections)

If that's OK then I'd suggest a thorough diagnostic check by a specialist or Forscan to see if anything comes up.

There are multiple data points, PIDs, that may indicate the problem area?

Only then can you make a decision if it is worth repairing against the cost to scrap?

It isn't always mechanical:

Do let us know the outcome.