Reconditioned Ford S-Max Gearbox

Ford S-Max (2006–2014): 9 engine codes across two manual gearbox families

On the S-Max, choosing the right reconditioned gearbox depends above all on the engine and engine code, not simply on engine capacity. The 2.0 TDCi alone covers three distinct engine codes — UFWA, TXWA and QXWA — all of which use a 6-speed manual, yet the associated gearbox references (AG9R-7002-UCF, AG9R-7002-UCE, 6G9R-7002-AC) are not the same from one code to the next. The 1.6 TDCi (codes QXWB, AOWA, AOWB, AOBC) also uses a 6-speed, which is different from the 2.0 TDCi unit despite having the same number of ratios. Only the 2.0 petrol (TNWA, T1WA) is fitted with a 5-speed manual.

When rebuilding your own gearbox makes sense on the S-Max

For versions produced between 2006 and 2009, certain references are becoming difficult to source as exchange units. In that case, rebuilding the customer's own unit — that is, sending your own gearbox away for reconditioning and having that same unit returned — is a worthwhile alternative: it removes any compatibility uncertainty related to the engine code or year of fitment. This option is distinct from an exchange, where a reconditioned gearbox is dispatched directly.

Key points to watch on the 2.0 TDCi and 1.6 TDCi

The S-Max 2.0 TDCi (136 to 163 hp depending on model year) puts the gearbox under considerable strain in loaded use: this family MPV is regularly used in 7-seat configuration or with a tow bar. The most common symptoms before complete failure are stiff gear changes in 3rd and 4th, followed by gear jumping. On the 1.6 TDCi, the 6-speed gearbox is shared with other Ford models of the same period, but the mounting and bridging references differ: checking the engine code stamped on the block remains essential before placing any order.