Ford Galaxy vs. Volkswagen Sharan: Complete comparison 2026

Ford Galaxy, long valued as one of the most spacious and sure-footed seven-seater family vans on the market, offers a great combination of travel comfort and superior everyday practicality. Its traditional German rival, Volkswagen Sharan, counters with a more premium interior, timeless design, and maximum interior space utility, significantly enhanced by its exceptionally practical sliding side doors. The following comparison will detail the key differences between these popular large MPVs and help you determine which of these two family haulers will be the best choice for your needs.

When comparing the exterior dimensions of both popular family cruisers on the nearly-new used car market (focusing on the third-generation Ford Galaxy and the second-generation Volkswagen Sharan from around 2021), you quickly find that they share a very similar exterior footprint. In terms of length, both models approach the generous 4.85-meter mark. The Volkswagen Sharan is, at 4854 mm, just a few negligible millimeters longer than the Ford (4848–4853 mm). The Ford Galaxy, on the other hand, counters with a slightly greater width of 1916 mm, which is 12 mm more than its German competitor. In terms of daily use, both cars are similarly demanding when maneuvering in tight spaces or underground garages, but they more than make up for this slight handicap with unrivaled interior space.

A more significant structural difference is apparent when looking at the height of the two bodies. The Ford Galaxy, at 1747 mm, remains true to its very tall build and is 27 mm taller than the Volkswagen Sharan (1720 mm). This higher roofline gives the Ford's interior a sense of immense overall airiness and guarantees taller passengers excellent headroom even in the third row of seats. Conversely, the slightly lower and more hunkered-down stance of the Volkswagen Sharan ensures a lower center of gravity, which makes it feel more like a conventional passenger car and helps slightly improve aerodynamics during high-speed motorway travel.

However, the most important parameter that helps define the character of both cars is the wheelbase. Here, the Volkswagen Sharan dominates with a value exceeding the 2.9-meter mark (up to 2920 mm), which is a significant 70 mm more than what the Ford Galaxy offers (2850 mm). This significantly longer wheelbase gives the Volkswagen an advantage in maximizing longitudinal legroom for rear passengers and contributes significantly to directional stability and ride smoothness on long motorway journeys. The Ford Galaxy's shorter wheelbase, on the other hand, helps keep the body more maneuverable, offering the driver more agile behavior when navigating tight corners on regular country roads.

When choosing a large family car, the luggage compartment volume is often the absolutely most important factor. Families in the used car market looking for a vehicle approximately four years old urgently need flexibility, space for strollers, and room for luggage for long summer holidays. In this regard, the third-generation Ford Galaxy (sold until 2023) and the second-generation Volkswagen Sharan (available until 2022) are among the most popular and practical cars on the market, with both models representing the popular category of spacious MPVs. However, each of them approaches the solution of interior space slightly differently.

The third-generation Ford Galaxy is synonymous with well-thought-out variability. If you decide to use all three rows of seats and travel with seven people, the luggage space logically drops to a basic 200 liters, which is a value sufficient at most for a regular weekend grocery shop or a few school backpacks. But as soon as you fold the third row of seats into the floor (which creates the standard five-seat configuration), you have a full 689 liters at your disposal – a value that even the popular hybrid versions from 2021 to 2023 reliably maintain, where the batteries do not take up precious space. If you need to turn the car into a van and fold the second row as well, the volume grows to a massive 2339 liters, offering plenty of space for moving furniture or transporting oversized items.

Volkswagen Sharan, on the other hand, impresses with paper figures right from the start. In a typical configuration for five passengers, it offers an absolutely cavernous basic volume of 955 liters. In practice, this means space for several extra suitcases, or the possibility to load an unfolded stroller and still add luggage for a family holiday. When maximum transport capacity is needed and all rear seats are folded, the trunk expands to a staggering 2430 liters. The Sharan thus slightly outperforms its competitor in pure numbers, which it further complements with very practical sliding side doors that facilitate cargo handling in narrow parking lots.

From the perspective of pure numbers, the Volkswagen Sharan offers a slight advantage in both total and basic transport capacity, which will be most appreciated by families who often set out on longer trips with a large amount of equipment. However, Ford Galaxy counters with a highly flexible cabin and the fact that even more modern and eco-friendly hybrid variants maintain 100% practicality without spatial compromises. Both choices are absolutely excellent for family logistics, and with neither car do you have to worry about having to leave anything at home.

Towing capacity is often a key parameter for large family MPVs like the Ford Galaxy and Volkswagen Sharan, especially for active families who spend their free time camping or need to transport bulky loads. The differences in maximum permitted trailer weight among the generations available on the nearly-new used car market (around 4 years old) are quite noticeable and can immediately decide the winner for a specific group of buyers.

The second-generation Volkswagen Sharan stands out as an exceptionally capable hauler. With the popular 2.0 TDI diesel engines, it can tow a braked trailer weighing an impressive 2,400 kg (2,000 to 2,200 kg for less powerful versions). If you opt for the base 1.4 TSI petrol engine, the maximum permitted weight stops at a fixed but still solid 1,800 kg.

The rival third-generation Ford Galaxy lags slightly behind in absolute numbers. Most of its modern 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engines can handle a braked trailer up to a maximum weight of 2,000 kg. The 1.5 EcoBoost petrol engine offers a standard towing capacity of 1,600 kg. An important specific for Ford is the full-hybrid 2.5 Hybrid powertrain (available since 2021). Here, to protect the more complex electric drivetrain and due to the overall higher weight of the vehicle itself, the towing capacity drops to between 1,510 and 1,710 kg.

In practice, these differences mean a lot. With its 2,400 kg maximum, the Volkswagen Sharan offers a huge reserve – it can easily tow a heavy twin-axle family caravan for a long summer holiday, a horse trailer, or a larger boat. The Ford Galaxy, with a towing capacity of 2,000 kg for diesel versions, can still reliably handle a standard family caravan or transport heavy materials from a building supply store. However, its eco-friendly hybrid variant is more suitable for towing light caravans or as a reliable way to transport several heavy e-bikes on a carrier. For both vehicles, they can easily handle an unbraked trailer up to the maximum legal limit of 750 kg, which is sufficient for a typical weekend household shopping trip.

Conclusion: For buyers looking for the maximum possible towing power who plan to tow very heavy trailers frequently, the Volkswagen Sharan equipped with the 2.0-litre diesel is the clear favorite. However, if you use the tow bar only occasionally, the standard Ford Galaxy with its two-tonne limit will be a perfectly adequate partner. Just be careful with its fuel-efficient hybrid, where you have to make a significant compromise in towing capacity.

When choosing a roughly four-year-old used car in the large family MPV category, the choice of the right engine plays a key role. These vehicles often have to handle full occupancy and heavy loads, which places high demands on torque, flexibility, and overall durability. The used car market from 2018–2022 is clearly dominated by modern diesel engines that have already passed stricter emission standards and use urea injection (branded as EcoBlue at Ford, traditionally as TDI SCR at Volkswagen). While the Volkswagen Sharan relied on a proven but rather conservative range in the form of the 1.4 TSI petrol with a particulate filter (OPF) and two-litre diesels at the end of its long career, the Ford Galaxy offered a wider spectrum of performance. A major turning point is the fact that in 2021, Ford introduced an advanced full-hybrid powertrain for the Ford Galaxy, giving the family hauler a whole new dimension in suburban traffic. Both brands otherwise offer the option of popular all-wheel drive (Intelligent AWD vs. 4MOTION) and robust automatic transmissions.

Ford Galaxy

The engine range for the Ford Galaxy in its final years of production is based almost exclusively on modern 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engines, which completely replaced the older and well-known TDCi units (production of which ended in 2018). These cleaner diesels from 2018–2021 are available in sensible power versions of 110 kW (150 hp) and 140 kW (190 hp), which are perfectly suited for highway speeds. If you are looking for maximum dynamics, Ford also offered a top-of-the-line Bi-Turbo version with two turbochargers boasting an impressive 177 kW (240 hp) and 500 Nm, but this disappeared from the price lists at the end of 2020.

If you prefer petrol, a turbocharged 1.5 EcoBoost four-cylinder was available until roughly the end of 2020, but it is very rare on the used market (the more powerful 2.0 EcoBoost version ended as early as mid-2018). However, the real ace up the used Ford's sleeve for urban and suburban driving is the 2.5 Hybrid (FHEV) full-hybrid unit with 140 kW and a smooth CVT transmission. It was launched in early 2021 and represents the best possible compromise for drivers covering short distances in the city, where diesel engines suffer from DPF filter clogging.

Volkswagen Sharan

Compared to Ford, the Volkswagen Sharan followed a significantly more conservative path and, in its final years (production effectively ended during 2022), bet exclusively on improving what customers had been buying for years. Among the petrol units on the market for approximately four-year-old used cars, you will encounter almost exclusively the reliable 1.4 TSI OPF BMT four-cylinder with 110 kW (150 hp). This engine offers a solid torque of 250 Nm for its displacement, but for a fully loaded seven-seater Sharan, it requires more frequent revving, and you should expect noticeably higher fuel consumption. The more powerful petrol alternative in the form of the 2.0 TSI engine ended as early as mid-2018 due to emissions.

The core of the used car market offering is thus logically the proven 2.0 TDI SCR BMT turbodiesel (equipped with AdBlue injection, meeting strict Euro 6 standards). In the youngest model years, versions with 110 kW (150 hp) and 130 kW (177 hp) dominate. Unlike the petrol engine, driving a heavy car with a diesel is more confident and economical thanks to the more substantial torque. For the more powerful diesels, it is easy to find models complemented by the popular 4MOTION all-wheel drive and reliable DSG dual-clutch automatics, which work with seven gears in conjunction with these engines (wet clutches).

Choosing the right engine is absolutely critical for long-term satisfaction with a vehicle, which is why our recommendations are based on real-world performance experience, actual fuel consumption, owner feedback, and mechanical reliability. Both of these large MPVs require powerful and torquey units to move their weight, but when looking for a used car roughly four years old, you will encounter an interesting fact: due to tightening emission standards, both manufacturers had to radically cut their engine offerings. Looking at historical production data, it is clear that popular older diesel generations (such as Ford's 2.0 TDCi discontinued in 2018) or powerful petrol units (such as VW's 2.0 TSI discontinued in 2015) are no longer found in late-model vehicles. The current market for family used cars is thus dominated exclusively by modernized and, over the years, refined 2.0-litre diesel engines, which make the most sense for large family cruisers in terms of both cost and durability.

For the Ford Galaxy, we recommend: 2.0 EcoBlue, 110 kW or 140 kW

This modern 2.0-litre diesel, which reliably replaced the older TDCi engines in Generation III (specifically in models up to 2021), is objectively the best and most sensible choice for the massive Galaxy. In the 110 kW (150 hp) version, it represents a great compromise between purchase price and dynamics, while the more powerful 140 kW (190 hp) variant provides the necessary reserve even when fully loaded with luggage and seven passengers. The engine is praised for its overall refinement, solid pull from low revs, and long-term operational reliability.

From a technical standpoint, it particularly pleases with a wide and flat torque curve (up to 400 Nm in the more powerful version), which ensures a smooth ride without the need to over-rev the engine. Real-world consumption for a car of this size ranges between a very pleasant 6.5 and 7.5 litres per 100 kilometres. A significant technical bonus for late-model used cars is also the fact that the more powerful versions are usually paired with a modern eight-speed planetary automatic transmission with a torque converter. This replaced the older and more problematic PowerShift dual-clutch transmissions and excels with much smoother shifting and higher durability.

The main risk with used 2.0 EcoBlue vehicles is a typical ailment of all modern diesels – clogging of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and crystallization or faults in the urea injection system (AdBlue), which occur most frequently when the car has been driven exclusively on short city trips. How to detect this problem? During a test drive, check if the car suffers from a loss of power, shows any error messages on the dashboard, or has a suspiciously rough or fluctuating idle. To mitigate the risk of internal engine wear, we strongly recommend shortening the oil change interval to a maximum of 15,000 km immediately after purchase and not relying on extended factory intervals.

This engine is perfect for drivers who regularly drive long highway stretches, transport a large family, or head to the sea in the summer with a fully loaded car. If you are looking for a comfortable mile-muncher with a calm driving style, the 2.0 EcoBlue will reward you with fantastic operating economy. Conversely, it is not an ideal candidate for daily "hopping" around a congested city to the shopping centre and back.

For the Volkswagen Sharan, we recommend: 2.0 TDI SCR BMT, 110 kW

The legendary 2.0 TDI engine with 110 kW (150 hp) from the reliable EA288 development family represents the gold standard under the hood of the Volkswagen Sharan. Although the second-generation Sharan was produced for a very long time, it is the evolutionary 2.0 TDI SCR BMT versions, which were sold until the very end of main production (in Comfortline, Highline, or Black Style trims until 2020), that form the absolute core of the four-year-old used car market. It is a time-tested, technically mature, and exceptionally balanced power unit, in which Volkswagen eliminated most of the teething problems of previous generations.

Among the main technical advantages is excellent operational efficiency, which for such a boxy and heavy body can often drop below 6.5 l/100 km. The engine offers confident pull from the lowest rev range and works perfectly with both the precise manual and the optional DSG dual-clutch transmission. The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system in this generation of the EA288 engine is conceptually much better designed – it takes gases after the DPF filter, so they are relatively clean and the valve no longer suffers from such massive carbon buildup and clogging as earlier TDI units.

However, even this honest machine is not immune to the risks of wear and tear. In used Sharans, which often serve as hard-working family and company workhorses, one must watch out for wear on the dual-mass flywheel. The fault manifests as audible metallic rattling and subtle vibrations at idle. Therefore, during an inspection of a used car, unconditionally insist on a test drive with a completely cold engine, when the play manifests most. For versions with the DSG automatic transmission, it is then crucial to check the service history – adhering to regular transmission oil changes every 60,000 km is an absolute necessity, and the absence of this service is a clear argument for a discount or walking away from the purchase.

The Sharan with the 2.0 TDI SCR BMT engine is a persistent workhorse ideal for travellers and active families. It is best suited for smooth driving at a steady speed on country roads and cruise-control highway journeys. We do not recommend it for permanent city operation with frequent starts – constant interruption of DPF regeneration in city traffic jams leads to reduced reliability of the emission systems.

Manufacturer-stated fuel consumption for large family MPVs often differs significantly from what drivers experience in real-world daily traffic. Weights approaching two tons and a massive frontal area mean that load and aerodynamic drag play a much larger role on the motorway or in the city than in laboratory measurements. To get an accurate picture of the real demands of these popular vehicles, typically sought on the used car market at around four years of age, we analyzed real user data from the independent portal Spritmonitor.de. These faithfully reflect the experiences of hundreds of owners for both the second-generation Volkswagen Sharan and the third-generation Ford Galaxy.

Looking at the real data, several important trends emerge. Traditional and most widespread diesel engines, represented by the 2.0 TDI in the Sharan and the 2.0 EcoBlue in the Galaxy, show almost identical average consumption, which in the long term stays just slightly above the seven-liter mark. Conversely, for many buyers, the behavior of small turbocharged petrol engines like the 1.4 TSI and 1.5 EcoBoost might come as a surprise. Although these smaller units promise savings on paper, in the real world, they have to work hard against the very heavy and spacious MPV bodies. This forces drivers to use higher revs more frequently, commonly pushing total consumption to eight and a half liters per hundred kilometers. An interesting alternative is the Ford Galaxy with the modern full-hybrid 2.5 Hybrid powertrain from more recent model years, which, at 6.8 l/100 km, becomes the most economical choice in the entire comparison, benefiting primarily from its ability to recuperate energy in city traffic.

For the typical user, these findings provide clear recommendations. If you use a family MPV primarily for long motorway trips on holiday or regularly carry a full load, diesel variants are by far the best solution in terms of operating costs and natural low-end torque. Petrol versions, on the other hand, make sense for families with lower overall annual mileage who need the car for shorter commutes to schools and after-school activities, where diesel engines would suffer due to slower warm-up and the particulate filter. For purely urban or suburban trips, it makes a lot of sense to look for the hybrid Galaxy variant.

In conclusion, fuel consumption itself is unlikely to be the deciding factor for preferring one model over the other. Both core vehicles show practically identical operating costs with corresponding engines. The final choice on the used car market will thus be much more influenced by the technical condition of the specific vehicle, the presence of desired equipment, and personal preferences regarding comfort or interior solutions.

The large family MPV category has significantly receded in recent years due to the SUV trend. In practice, this means that popular representatives of this declining segment – the Ford Galaxy and Volkswagen Sharan – hold their value very well. There is a steady demand for these spacious and practical seven-seater family cruisers on the used car market. Looking at cars approximately four years old (2021 and 2022 models), it turns out that the price gap between the two competitors is not dramatically wide, although minor differences can still be found.

Ford Galaxy: A sensible price-to-utility ratio

For an approximately four-year-old Ford Galaxy (post-facelift generation), prices on the used market most often range between €21,000 and €27,000, depending on the total mileage and equipment level.

• Most of the current used car inventory consists of advanced 2.0 EcoBlue diesel versions, which are very often paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the higher Titanium trim.
• Vehicles with higher motorway mileage (over 150,000 km) can be purchased for just around the €21,000 mark.
• On the other hand, very well-maintained, fully equipped units with all-wheel drive (AWD) or the more modern and reliable 2.5 Hybrid (FHEV) powertrains, which entered the market at the end of production, confidently hold their price even above the €27,000 threshold.

Volkswagen Sharan: A traditional value-holder

Production of the Volkswagen Sharan (7N generation) finally ended in the autumn of 2022 after a long twelve years. The 2021 and 2022 models represent the youngest examples of this family legend available on the market today. These cars are priced from €21,000 to €28,000.

• The 1.4 TSI petrol engines, which were widely installed in the Sharan at the end of its life cycle, represent a more affordable entry point, with an average price tag from €21,000 to €23,000.
• Models equipped with the reliable 2.0 TDI motorway express, DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, and in the top-tier Highline trim are among the most expensive. They rarely drop below €25,000, and with low mileage, they boldly approach the €29,000 mark.
• The price premium for a Sharan is often fully compensated (and justified) by the highly desirable sliding side doors, for which families are willing to pay extra.

Estimated used car price table (2021–2022 models)

The amounts listed are for guidance only. Prices depend on the current market supply, the overall condition of the vehicle, documented service history, and, above all, the mileage.

Both vehicles are among the popular family models where safety is an absolute priority. However, when comparing Euro NCAP crash test results, it is essential to take into account the context and the year of testing. Test methodology and protocols have become increasingly strict and have evolved over the years, meaning that percentage scores from different years cannot be directly compared. While older models could achieve five stars by the standards of the time, newer ratings place much greater emphasis on advanced active safety systems such as automatic emergency braking, cyclist detection, and intersection safety solutions.

The third-generation Ford Galaxy was tested by the independent Euro NCAP consortium in 2015, where it received the maximum five-star rating at the time. The car demonstrated a very solid body structure and balanced results in all categories – 87% for both adult and child occupant protection. It also performed excellently in the assessment of vulnerable road user protection (79%) and safety assist systems (71%). Prospective used car buyers should know, however, that the 2015 certification is formally expired from today's perspective and does not reflect the very latest assistance trends.

The Volkswagen Sharan first underwent testing in 2010 with a five-star result; however, much more important is its rigorous re-testing from late 2019, from which it took away four stars. The reduction in the overall rating stemmed from much stricter requirements for pedestrian protection (59%) and the performance of safety assistants (62%). Additionally, the Sharan received a minor penalty because its sliding door came loose during a severe side pole impact. In terms of passive adult protection itself, however, it is at a top level with a rating of 89% and benefits significantly from the standard-fit autonomous emergency braking (AEB), which brings it closer to today's standards.

Euro NCAP Test Results

Overall, both models represent very safe family cruisers. Although the Ford Galaxy scores with a more balanced result and higher percentage protection for children and vulnerable road users, it benefited from slightly more lenient testing rules. The Volkswagen Sharan, on the other hand, offers an assistance package tuned to newer Euro NCAP standards, despite the overall four-star rating caused by the newer, significantly stricter metrics.

In addition to standard equipment, each of these models offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer. Both large MPVs share the goal of safely and comfortably transporting a large family, but each brand approaches this goal slightly differently.

Ford Galaxy: Exceptional dynamics and modern smart solutions

• Smart solutions and seats: The EasyFold seat folding system takes care of everyday comfort when handling cargo. Completely unrivaled in higher trim levels is the PowerFold function, which allows for electric folding and even unfolding of the third-row seats at the touch of a button in the luggage compartment.
• Powertrain and engines: In the used car market from recent production years, the full hybrid powertrain (FHEV) represents a huge advantage. The Galaxy with this powertrain brings excellent fuel consumption, especially in suburban and urban traffic, without the need for external charging from the grid. The range is complemented by traditional EcoBlue diesel units or intelligent AWD all-wheel drive.
• Chassis and driving characteristics: Ford traditionally leads the class in terms of handling. Despite its impressive dimensions, the Galaxy offers very precise steering and a sophisticated Integral Link rear multi-link axle. It filters out bumps with unprecedented elegance and provides the driver with confidence on winding country roads.
• Infotainment and telematics: The SYNC 3 multimedia system is valued for its lightning-fast response, large touchscreen, and perfect support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Thanks to the built-in FordPass Connect modem, the car features connectivity including remote access via a phone app or over-the-air (OTA) updates.
• Body concept: Unlike many competitors, the Galaxy sticks to classic hinged rear doors. As a result, it has a more civil, almost estate-like appearance and an overall stiffer side body profile, which benefits acoustic comfort.

Volkswagen Sharan: Unrivaled practicality with sliding doors

• Door concept and access: An absolutely fundamental selling point for the Sharan is the rear side sliding doors. In mid and high trim levels, they are often fully electrically operated (from the driver's seat, the key, or by pulling the handle). In narrow parking spaces of shopping centers, they represent invaluable help when placing children into car seats.
• Family and safety features: A brilliant and iconic detail for the brand is the integrated child seats in the second row (available as an option). By simply lifting the seat cushion and attaching a special side headrest, you immediately get homologated and safe seating for children without having to constantly carry bulky external car seats.
• Interior variability: The Sharan relies on three full-size, individually sliding seats in the second row, where you can easily place three child seats side by side (all with ISOFIX anchors). When the seats are folded into the floor, there is no step, and the car boasts a perfectly flat loading surface.
• Chassis and driving assistance: Although the Sharan is tuned more for maximum comfort, the DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control) adaptive damping system often appears in used cars. This allows the driver to choose between a comfortable "wafting" mode for broken highways and a stiffer setting for mountain passes.
• Transmissions and electronics: Most models from the end of production are equipped with the reliable and fast DSG dual-clutch transmission, which means complete relief from shifting for family travel. The interior is dominated by the classic and ergonomically flawless Discover family infotainment (Media or Pro), complemented by logical mechanical climate controls that do not distract from driving. The icing on the cake is the availability of the 4Motion system for trips to mountain resorts.

The Ford Galaxy is an ideal choice for large families where the driver still appreciates confident and surprisingly nimble driving characteristics. It excels in better use of space for third-row passengers and overall more modern onboard electronics, although the lack of a pair of sliding doors may be a slight disappointment in everyday use.

The Volkswagen Sharan targets customers looking for maximum utility for a family with small children, top-notch craftsmanship, and comfortable cruising over hundreds of highway kilometers. Sliding doors are a huge draw for family use, but buyers must accept the higher used car price and the aging overall architecture of the vehicle.

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, which include a thorough physical inspection of the used car, service records, and breakdown statistics, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of roughly four-year-old models should watch out for.

Ford Galaxy

For roughly four-year-old Ford Galaxy Mk4 models (especially post-facelift vehicles), most technical issues stem from the way they were used and the previous owners' diligence in maintenance.

• Engine and exhaust system: By far the most common 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engines are extremely sensitive to constant stop-and-go city traffic. Without regular warming up on longer trips, the diesel particulate filter (DPF) becomes clogged, exhaust pressure sensors fail, and occasionally, fuel vaporizer failure occurs.
• Transmission: Both dual-clutch and conventional automatic transmissions from these production years require strictly scheduled oil changes every 60,000 km. Neglecting this task soon results in imprecise and jerky shifting, often followed by very costly mechatronics failures.
• Chassis: Due to the vehicle's high curb weight, the Galaxy suffers from faster wear of the rear trailing arm bushings. A driver can usually tell by an uncertain "floating" sensation of the rear end in corners and unevenly worn tires. On the front axle, annoying squeaking from the upper strut mounts often appears.
• Electronics: The SYNC 3 onboard multimedia system suffers from occasional software freezes or drops in stable Bluetooth connectivity. Moody parking sensors can also be a nuisance.

Volkswagen Sharan

In a comparably old Volkswagen Sharan (7N generation from the final years of production), we find advanced and proven VW Group technology; however, some comfort features represent an increased financial risk for a used car buyer.

• Body and doors: The most famous and, unfortunately, relatively expensive ailment of this model is the electric sliding side doors. Due to age and load, the guide cables snap, the motors succumb to wear, and the sensors tend to report false errors, causing the doors to get completely stuck in position. Vehicles equipped with a panoramic roof tend to have water leaks into the interior due to easily clogged drainage channels.
• Engine and emission systems: The popular 2.0 TDI turbodiesels (EA288 series) on the used market are often plagued by failing components of the complex AdBlue system – most commonly the pump, the tank heater, or sensitive NOx sensors. Unexpected coolant leaks due to a leaking water pump are also relatively well-known.
• Transmission: As with the Ford, the popular DSG automatics (here in DQ250 or DQ381 versions) are subject to a strict rule of changing the oil and filter at least every 60,000 km. If the previous owner did not change the oil, there is a risk of burnt clutches, internal bearing wear, and rough jerking when pulling away.
• Chassis: The weight of a family MPV climbing towards the 1.8-ton mark is inevitably reflected in the condition of the suspension. Usually, the front stabilizer links and front control arm bushings are the first to lose their service life.

When buying a used car, an independent technical inspection of the vehicle's condition is key. Here are several specific points to focus on for these two models to ensure you don't face unpleasant and expensive surprises after the purchase.

When choosing a Ford Galaxy:

• Automatic transmission behavior: In models approximately four years old, you will most often encounter the newer 8-speed automatic. During the test drive, focus on the smoothness of shifting when crawling in traffic and during parking. Any jerking, noticeable delays when engaging reverse, or rough shifting can indicate a neglected oil change, which should take place every 60,000 km.
• Suspension and steering: The Galaxy is a relatively heavy MPV, which puts significant strain on the chassis and brakes. The front axle and power steering may show play after exceeding 100,000 km. During a test drive over bumps, listen for any knocking sounds coming from the front of the car. The actual condition of the shock absorbers, ball joints, and control arms is best revealed by a detailed physical inspection of the used car on a lift.
• SYNC 3 infotainment reliability: Ford's onboard system can occasionally malfunction. Carefully click through all screens, test the navigation's response speed, and pair your phone via Bluetooth. If the system freezes or the screen responds slowly, it indicates the need for a software update, or worse, an impending expensive module replacement.
• Hybrid powertrain integration (FHEV): If you are looking at newer models from 2021 equipped with the full-hybrid 2.5-liter engine, test the smoothness of transitions during the drive. Switching between pure electric mode and the internal combustion engine starting up must be smooth and imperceptible, without any vibrations or jolts.
• Air conditioning functionality: Galaxy models from these years often suffer from air conditioning leaks, most commonly due to a cracked condenser. During the test drive, turn the cooling to the lowest temperature and highest power – the air must be ice-cold almost immediately.

When choosing a Volkswagen Sharan:

• Electric sliding doors: This is a popular but treacherous feature of the Sharan. Be sure to repeatedly test the opening and closing of both sides. The doors must not get stuck, slow down halfway, or make grinding noises. Motors or sensors in the guide rails often show increased wear from as early as 80,000 km, and the repair is quite costly.
• DSG transmission behavior: A critical point is the timely maintenance of the dual-clutch transmission. During slow driving, starting on a hill, or parking, watch for any jerking from the transmission. Noticeable jerking, delays when starting, or even warning messages mean that the previous owner may not have respected the prescribed oil change interval (60,000 km) or that the mechatronics are wearing out.
• Emission system on 2.0 TDI engines (EGR and AdBlue): Most used diesel cars have many short city trips behind them. Focus on the engine's operation immediately after a cold start – the RPMs must not fluctuate, and it should not hesitate under throttle. Also, watch for warning lights; faulty NOx sensors, a clogged EGR valve, or a malfunctioning AdBlue system pump are common faults in four-year-old Sharans.
• Panoramic roof drains: If you are choosing a car with a sunroof, don't forget to check the floor carpets. Clogged drain channels easily cause leaks into the cabin. Moisture in the interior can destroy the electrical wiring hidden under the floor, so pay close attention to any musty smell inside the car.
• Discover Media display faults: Similar to the Ford, Volkswagen's navigation also often suffers from malfunctions. In models near the end of production, it commonly happens that the touchscreen stops responding to touch in some corners, or the display goes completely black. Touch every corner and go through the entire menu to verify the 100% functionality of the panel.

Sources: ADAC, aktualne.cz, novinky.cz, elektromobil.cz, autoweb.cz, finmag.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.