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Ford Smax 1.8 Problems

Robsta
Robsta
in General Ford Related Discussions

Featured Replies

Hi all,

I have a for Smax 1.8 from 2008 158.000 kms. Facing major problems! I am based in Belgium.

I bought this car 2 years ago and have only driven it 25.000 KMs myself.

The car from cold start smells really bad, getting lots of black smoke and the car vibrates so badly! Over the last 6 months FORD have replaced the turbo, clutch, flywheel and spark plugs and yet I still have the problem!!! When I drive it on the motorway I need to stop driving every 30 minutes as its so bad. They are baffled and can't find a solution - I've taken it to 2 Ford dealerships.

Any suggestions as to what might be the problem.

Thanks in advance!!!

  • Quote


    • Author

    Please help guys!

  • Quote

    Start by blanking the EGR valve. I would also be checking for any split turbo intercooler hoses and pipes.

    I had the same issues, fixed the pipe and blanked the EGR valve and its fixed!

  • Quote

    Did they charge you for changing the spark plugs on a 1.8 Diesel? It doesnt have any is all im saying, so check if they changed spark plugs or glow plugs.

    As James says, blank off the EGR Valve as it causes so many problems, there is a guide on here somewhere i believe.

  • Quote
    • Author

    Thanks a lot both of you!

    Would blanking off the EGR Valve stop the vibrations in your opinion? I'll try and find that link.

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    • Author

    Just to add a comment - the vibration problems really started after the turbo was replaced. I initially went to the garage with complaints of black/blue smoke and bad smell which is when they decided the turbo needed replacing.

    Thanks.

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    It will help and I would suggest checking out the pipes and hoses for splits

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    The guy never actually said if it's petrol or diesel?

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    • Author

    Sorry, yes it is Diesel.

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    Definitely check pipes and hoses for splits though.

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    • Author

    Pipes and hoses all seem ok.

    The car is also vibrating a little when stationary.

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    That could be worn engine or gearbox mount.

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    • Author

    Thanks James. How can one confirm this? :-(

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    The guy never actually said if it's petrol or diesel?

    True, but it says under his username he has an Smax 1.8 TDCI :)

    Take it back to the garage and ask them to check their work, sounds like it could be a split or loose boost hose.

    Can you hear a 'whooshing' or 'hissing' sound while driving the car on boost?

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    Agree with are if it's a recent purchase take it back to get reviewed. Otherwise any garage can diagnose worn mounts

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    • Author

    Indeed there is a slight 'whooshing' sound when releasing the accelerator!

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