Ford Galaxy: a popular multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with its own points of attention

The Ford Galaxy has built up a solid reputation over many years as a spacious family car and reliable travel companion for anyone who needs space, comfort and versatility. That said, this popular MPV is not free from technical issues that owners regularly report. From engine problems to electronic faults and transmission issues: the Galaxy has its weak spots that you are better off knowing in advance. Are you planning to buy a Ford Galaxy or wondering which problems you can expect with your current model?

General reliability and common problems

The Ford Galaxy has a reasonable reputation when it comes to reliability, but no model is perfect. Owners and mechanics regularly report certain weak points that crop up more often than you would like. In particular, second-generation models (2006–2015) and early third-generation models (2015–2023) suffer from specific technical problems. The diesel versions, popular for their pulling power (torque) and fuel efficiency, are prone to issues with modern emissions equipment such as diesel particulate filters (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation valves (EGR valves). The automatic Powershift transmission is also a source of concern for many owners.

For a complete overview of problems that occur in Ford models, have a look at the common car problems with Ford. This helps you spot patterns and search for solutions in a more targeted way.

Engine problems: from particulate filter to exhaust gas recirculation valve

The diesel engines in the Ford Galaxy are powerful and economical, but they come with their own set of problems. The 2.0 TDCi and 2.0 EcoBlue diesels, popular in family cars, regularly suffer from clogged diesel particulate filters. This happens mainly in cars that are used mostly for short journeys. The particulate filter then does not get the chance to regenerate properly, which leads to blockages and faults.

Symptoms of a clogged diesel particulate filter include:

• Engine warning light coming on
• Loss of power while driving
• Higher fuel consumption
• Poor starting performance

The exhaust gas recirculation valve (EGR valve) becomes dirty or defective over time, especially in cars with high mileage. This component regulates the amount of exhaust gases that are fed back into the combustion chamber. A faulty EGR valve causes an irregular idle speed, loss of power and increased emissions. Regular cleaning of the EGR valve can delay failures, but replacement is ultimately unavoidable.

Turbo damage is less common, but can occur in higher-powered models, such as the 210 horsepower (hp) bi-turbo diesel. Poor engine oil maintenance is often the cause. Make sure you change the oil on time according to the service schedule and use the correct specification.

Transmission and drivetrain: concerns around the Powershift

The automatic Powershift transmission is used in many Ford Galaxy models from 2010 onwards. This transmission is known for its problems. This six-speed dual-clutch gearbox is associated with various complaints from owners. Owners report anything from jerky gear changes to complete failure. The cause often lies in excessive wear to the clutches and issues with the transmission software.

Common complaints with the Powershift transmission:

• Jerking or juddering when changing gear, especially at low speeds
• Slipping clutch accompanied by a burning smell
• Delayed response when pulling away or accelerating
• Warning lights indicating transmission problems

Ford has released several software updates to address these issues. A complete solution often remained out of reach. In cases of severe wear, replacement of the clutch or even the entire transmission is necessary. This is expensive and is an important point of attention when buying a used Galaxy with Powershift.

Manual gearboxes cause fewer problems, but clutch wear can also occur here, especially under heavy loads or when towing a caravan. Have the clutch checked during regular servicing and watch out for symptoms such as clutch slip or difficulty engaging gears.

Electronic faults: frustration on all fronts

Modern cars like the Ford Galaxy contain dozens of sensors and electronic systems. This offers comfort and safety, but it also increases the likelihood of failures. Owners regularly report problems with various electrical and electronic components, leading to warning lights, functions dropping out and high repair costs.

One common issue involves defective sensors. The tyre pressure sensor, parking sensors and rain sensor sometimes give false alerts or stop working altogether. This can be caused by damaged wiring, water ingress or simply wear and tear. The mass air flow sensor (MAF sensor) also regularly becomes dirty or defective, leading to poor engine performance and high fuel consumption.

The infotainment system has its own problems. Models with Ford’s SYNC 2 or SYNC 3 multimedia system regularly generate complaints. Owners report frozen screens, issues with Bluetooth connections and failing navigation. Software updates can help, but some problems keep coming back.

Wiring issues occur in older models. Blown fuses, corrosion in connectors and damaged wiring looms can cause all kinds of faults. Pay particular attention to the wiring channels under the car for damage caused by water or salt.

Suspension and steering: comfort and safety under pressure

The suspension of the Ford Galaxy is designed for comfort and a smooth ride, but heavily loaded family journeys and poor roads take their toll. Shock absorbers wear out faster than you might expect, especially on models that are regularly heavily loaded or cover long distances. You can recognise worn shock absorbers by a bouncy driving style, longer braking distances and noises over bumps.

Anti-roll bar links and the surrounding bushes also wear out. This leads to creaking noises when turning the steering wheel or when driving over uneven surfaces. Replacement is not expensive, but it is necessary to maintain stability and driving comfort.

The power steering, hydraulic in older models and electric in newer versions, can cause problems. In hydraulic systems, leaks can occur or the pump may fail. Electric power steering can suffer faults in the electronic control unit or the motor itself. This manifests itself as heavy steering or a warning light on the dashboard.

Regularly check the following points:

• Wear on the anti-roll bar bushes
• Condition of shock absorbers and springs
• Power steering fluid level (hydraulic systems)
• Play in the steering mechanism

Brakes and safety systems: not something to compromise on

Brakes are the most critical safety system in any car. With the Ford Galaxy, there are regular complaints about rapid wear of brake discs and pads, especially at the front. The weight of the car and the fact that it is often driven heavily loaded accelerate this wear. Have the brakes checked at every service and replace the pads in good time.

Brake callipers can seize due to corrosion or contamination. You can recognise this by uneven wear on the brake discs, a pulling sensation while braking or heat at one wheel. Seized brake callipers lead to increased fuel consumption and dangerous situations.

The anti-lock braking system (ABS) and the electronic stability programme (ESP) are reliable, but can suffer faults due to defective sensors or problems in the control unit. If the ABS or ESP warning light stays on, have it checked immediately. These systems are crucial for safe braking and stability in difficult conditions.

Bodywork and interior: minor niggles that irritate

The Ford Galaxy has a solid body, but problems can occur here too. Rust appears on older models, especially around the wheel arches, sills and at the bottom of the doors. Check these areas thoroughly when buying a used model. Rust often starts small, but can spread quickly if it is not treated.

The air conditioning regularly causes problems. Owners report insufficient cooling, strange smells from the vents or a system that has failed completely. Causes range from leaking pipes and a defective compressor to contaminated evaporators. Have the air conditioning system checked and serviced annually, preferably before the summer months.

Interior wear is common in high-mileage cars. Worn seat upholstery, creaking plastic trims and loose fabric are frequently heard complaints. This affects the comfort and appearance of the car, but does not affect its technical reliability.

The electric sliding doors, a practical feature on the Galaxy, can start to run stiffly or fail completely. This is often due to dirty guide rails or problems with the electric motor. Clean the rails regularly and lubricate them with suitable grease.

Prevention and maintenance: keeping your Galaxy in top condition

Many problems with the Ford Galaxy can be prevented or postponed with correct and timely maintenance. Follow Ford’s service schedule strictly and have services carried out by an authorised workshop or a reliable independent specialist.

Pay attention to the following points during servicing:

• Change engine oil and filters according to schedule and use oil with the correct specification
• Clean or replace the diesel particulate filter in good time on diesel models
• Have the EGR valve cleaned or replaced regularly
• Have the Powershift transmission checked annually for wear and software updates
• Replace brake fluid and coolant according to the recommendations

It is also important to inspect suspension components for wear and damage.

Regularly drive diesel models on the motorway to allow the diesel particulate filter to regenerate properly. Short journeys without sufficiently high temperatures lead to blockages. Plan an occasional longer drive to prevent this.

Buying tips: what to look out for with a used Galaxy

Planning to buy a used Ford Galaxy? Then keep an eye on the following points to avoid nasty surprises. Check the service history thoroughly. A complete and well-documented history is the best proof of careful maintenance by previous owners.

Checklist for a pre-purchase inspection:

• Test the Powershift transmission extensively for jerky behaviour, clutch slip and smooth gear changes
• Check whether the diesel particulate filter has been replaced or cleaned recently
• Inspect the bodywork for rust spots on wheel arches, sills and doors
• Test all electrical functions, including sliding doors, infotainment and sensors
• Watch out for warning lights on the dashboard and ask about previous faults
• Check the condition of brake discs, tyres and suspension components
• Ask about any software updates for the transmission and engine

If in doubt, have a professional pre-purchase inspection carried out. This costs a few hundred euros but can save you thousands of euros in hidden defects. A good mechanic knows the Galaxy’s known weak points and can advise you on the condition of the car.

Pay extra attention with models that have more than 150,000 kilometres on the clock. At this point, you can expect wear on various components such as the clutch, shock absorbers and turbo. Ask whether these parts have been replaced and factor the cost of expected repairs into your budget.

The Ford Galaxy remains a valuable option for many families

Despite its technical points of attention, the Ford Galaxy has a lot to offer. The space for seven people, the ride comfort and the practical features still make it attractive for families and anyone who regularly transports a lot of people or luggage. The diesel engines are powerful and economical, provided they are properly maintained. Reliability is at an acceptable level if you take the known weak points into account.

Ideally choose a manual diesel version to avoid problems with the Powershift transmission. Make sure there is a fully stamped service book and have the car thoroughly inspected before purchase. With the right care and preventive maintenance, a Ford Galaxy can provide many years of loyal service. Know the weak points, stay alert for symptoms and take timely action when issues arise. That way you prevent small problems from turning into major repairs.