Ford S-Max auto-box

Towing with a 'proper' torque converter auto is THE way to go. Ford's Powershift auto is not without its problems .... it's a manual gearbox with auto controls (and is often called something else quite similar )

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OSDw-uyP98&t=258s 

Take note at 8min 40secs 

You need to establish what sort of auto box it is as opposed to Ford's fancy name. If it’s a torque converter it will be very bulletproof and perform well when towing. Others such as dual clutch boxes, automated manuals or continually variable transmission systems may or may not perform as well. If it’s a dual clutch box, ensure it is the wet type rather than the dry which is more prone to problems. Unfortunately, most car salesmen won’t know the difference.

Word on the grapevine is that the Ford auto box is not good. 

MollysMummy - wow!  He doesn't pull any punches on the Ford Powershi* (9mins 25s) 

He doesn't seem to be a fan does he? 🤣🤣

The latest Powershift are TC boxes. Not quite sure when introduced (2016 i think). Somehow Ford just didn't get their version of DSG sorted and finally ditched them (i think across the board). As stated above generally wet plate DSG are fine IF they are properly serviced, but then again TC boxes need a fluid change even if allegedly sealed for life. 

Pretty sure like wise Vauxhall & their Easytronic automated manual

I tow with a Ford Edge which has the 6 speed auto. Having retired and using the van (Unicorn Cartagena about 1650kg) almost all the time due having a house built we have been touring for about 15 months!

No issues with the gear box and never need to put it in sport for manual control. I may be wrong but I think the diesel cars have the wet clutch?

Mine is a 2017 model.

Cheers

V70Ranger

I think the Edge is a TC box. The just launched Ford Puma (SUV) had a 7 speed DSG type box option. 

Lewisintour.  I changed my 56 plate SMax for the same in the new model and wish I hadn’t.  Build quality awful.  37 dealer visits, 2 from Ford Technical and 6 months total with the dealer.   If yours works stick with it is my advice 

Latest generation auto gearboxes require a change in driving style especially when towing. Slow driving, say less than 5mph is to be avoided.

I stopped reversing the caravan years ago because of damaged this caused to a dual mass flywheel, have a mover so I use it. Reversing a caravan is an absolute no no in my dsg book.

As far as standard cars go, above a certain torque you get a wet clutch.

You must have the gearbox oil changed, no getting round it. Mine is at 38k miles. But because I tow around 3k a year mine is being changed at 30k miles or third service which ever is sooner. I highly recommend if you go auto you do the same.

Last week I picked up my now exactly 1 year old new to me car. I dont care about its towing abilities, it was bought purely to put some sparkle back into driving, its petrol too, so that confirms it.

Dsg and towing? Last weekend, 1500kg caravan, 400 miles spread over 2 days, into Cornwall, hills and all, what caravan? Superb. (190bhp engine)

I'll never go back to manual, DSG is that good. Having said that, Michelle has an A3 Cabriolet, manual diesel, she wont go auto,  so it depends on the individual.

Test drive one.