Ford S-MAX - Whining noise

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Mon 31 May 2010 23:09
Ford S-MAX - Whining noise - awbp

Having just answered Reverend's question about whether to buy a Mazda5 or an S-Max, a question about our new S-Max!

We've collected our new-to-us 57 S-Max 2.0 TDCi last weekend, and have noticed a whining noise above 60mph. I did notice the same thing on the test drive, but am beginning to wonder whether it's normal. The whine is in relation to the vehicle speed (not rpm), not too loud but noticeable above the engine noise.

Do all diesel S-Max's make this noise? I've checked the owners club and apart from some complaints about exhaust whine (whatever that is) I can't find anything. This sounds more like a bearing, but 25,000 miles seems early for one to go and maybe they all make the same noise? The dealer certainly didn't think it sounded odd on the test drive, but then he wouldn't! The car feels normal to drive.

Thanks for your help.

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Tue 1 Jun 2010 01:12
Ford S-MAX - Whining noise - Avant

The only thing to do is go back to the dealer and ask for it to be checked. If necessary ask for a mechanic to come out with you. If it is a fault, they will have a duty to put it right as it existed when you test-drove - i.e. before buying the car.

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Wed 2 Jun 2010 14:19
Ford S-MAX - Whining noise - awbp

Thanks for the advice Avant. I took the car to our local Ford dealer this morning and a mechanic came out with me. It turns out it's just tyre noise, but possibly a little louder than I'd expect because the previous owner didn't replace the original front tyres with another set of the factory fitted Pirellis.

Will just have to turn the radio up!

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Wed 2 Jun 2010 16:51
Ford S-MAX - Whining noise - craig-pd130

On my Mondeo IV, I recently replaced the front pair of factory-fit Michelin Pilot Premacies with Kumho Ecstas, and I've been very impressed with the ride / handling / grip and lack of road noise. I can't tell the difference in handling / braking etc but they are MUCH quieter, and less than half the cost of the Michelins.

For what it's worth, the Michelins lasted just over 20,000 miles.

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Sun 6 Jun 2010 17:48
Ford S-MAX - Whining noise - a900ss

On the S-Max I had for over 55,000 miles (it had 18" wheels), the Michelins were the quietest tyre I tried, much quieter than the Conti's.

Tyle life was poor for both manufacturers, averaging about 15k from the fronts and that was 85% motorway driving.

My S-Max had no whining noise (not that it helps you) but have you tried your question at the smaxownersclub forum?

Good Luck.

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