Choosing the right battery for a Ford S-Max I (2006–2015) involves considering several critical factors including engine type, the presence of a Start-Stop system, and specific physical constraints such as the battery height. Since the S-Max offers a range of petrol and diesel engines, each with its own electrical demands, it’s essential to match the battery specifications accordingly for optimal performance and reliability. A notable detail for all configurations is the requirement for a battery with a reduced height of 175 mm, a key point to keep in mind when selecting a compatible replacement.
For petrol engines without Start-Stop functionality, such as the 2.0 and 2.0 Flexifuel variants, traditional lead-acid batteries within the 60–62 Ah capacity and 540–600 A cold cranking amperage (CCA) range are sufficient. These vehicles commonly use standard flooded batteries. Examples of suitable models include Bosch S40 04, Exide EA612, and Varta D21. The 2.0 EcoBoost, 2.3, and 2.5 ST variants, on the other hand, require slightly larger batteries, typically in the 71–74 Ah capacity range with higher CCA values between 670 and 750 A. Compatible examples include Bosch S50 07, Exide EB712, and Varta E43. These configurations demand a more robust battery to support the increased power needs of turbocharged or performance engines.
For diesel engines like the 1.8 TDCi, 2.0 TDCi, and 2.2 TDCi without Start-Stop, the battery requirements increase even further due to the nature of diesel engines requiring more power to start, especially in colder climates. Batteries in the 80–85 Ah range with 700–800 A CCA are recommended. Example models for these engines include Bosch S40 10, Exide EA852, and Varta F17. These models ensure sufficient starting power and consistent performance over time, which is crucial for diesel applications.
The presence of Start-Stop systems, found in the 1.6 EcoBoost and 1.6 TDCi engines, adds another layer of complexity. These engines require EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) technology, which is designed to endure frequent start cycles and deeper discharges. Batteries for these variants should have a capacity of around 75 Ah with a CCA of approximately 730 A. Suitable examples include Bosch S4 E10, Exide EL752, and Varta E46. Choosing a conventional lead-acid battery in place of an EFB could lead to premature battery failure and system errors, so it’s vital to stick with the recommended type.
An interesting point to consider when selecting a battery for the Ford S-Max I is the shared platform it has with the Ford Galaxy and certain Volvo models. This means that while many batteries may fit in terms of electrical specs, not all will conform to the physical constraints like height or mounting system. Therefore, even if a battery appears compatible on paper, it’s always a good idea to double-check the dimensions, especially the 175 mm height requirement, which is slightly lower than standard car batteries.
Ultimately, the key to choosing the right battery lies in carefully balancing capacity, starting power, and technology type with the specific requirements of the engine and vehicle system. Always ensure the battery you choose meets or exceeds the original specifications. While the examples provided such as Bosch, Exide, Lucas, and Varta models serve as reliable options, it’s advisable to verify the latest part numbers and specs before purchase, as product lines can evolve.
Ford S-Max in version I was produced in the years 2006 – 2015. We invite you to a list of batteries matching individual engine versions.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Ford S-Max (2006-2015):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
Ford S-Max I – petrol engines:
- 2.0
- 2.0 Flexifuel
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 04 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 04 | 61 Ah 600 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB602 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA612 | 61 Ah 600 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 075 | 60 Ah 550 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP075 | 60 Ah 540 A | 243x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS075 | 62 Ah 600 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D59 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D21 | 61 Ah 600 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
Ford S-Max I – petrol engines:
- 2.0 EcoBoost
- 2.3
- 2.5 ST
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 07 | 72 Ah 680 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 07 | 74 Ah 750 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB712 | 71 Ah 670 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA722 | 72 Ah 720 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP100 | 72 Ah 680 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS100 | 74 Ah 750 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E43 | 72 Ah 680 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E38 | 74 Ah 750 A | 278x175x175 mm | More |
Ford S-Max I – petrol engines:
- 1.6 EcoBoost – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 EFB S4 E10 | 75 Ah 730 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide EFB EL752 | 75 Ah 730 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced EFB 110 | 75 Ah 730 A | 317x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion EFB LE110 | 75 Ah 730 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic EFB E46 | 75 Ah 730 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
Ford S-Max I – diesel engines:
- 1.8 TDCi
- 2.0 TDCi
- 2.2 TDCi
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 10 | 80 Ah 740 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 10 | 85 Ah 800 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB802 | 80 Ah 700 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA852 | 85 Ah 800 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 110 | 80 Ah 760 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP110 | 80 Ah 800 A | 317x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic F17 | 80 Ah 740 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic F18 | 85 Ah 800 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
Ford S-Max I – diesel engines:
- 1.6 TDCi – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 EFB S4 E10 | 75 Ah 730 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide EFB EL752 | 75 Ah 730 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced EFB 110 | 75 Ah 730 A | 317x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion EFB LE110 | 75 Ah 730 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic EFB E46 | 75 Ah 730 A | 315x175x175 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Ford S-Max , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!
One response to “Ford S-Max I (2006-2015) – batteries”
Hi, bought a Banner battery today from a shop as old battery was completely flat. To my surprise the shop has given me a 65Ah battery while the flat one is a 75Ah. I did provide my registration details and this was recommended by the staff in the shop. I drive a 65 plate Ford S Max 2.0 Tdci Titanium Sport. I thought a large car such as a Ford S Max should have at least a 75Ah battery. Please advise what is better. Many thanks Neil (a budding car battery enthusiast)