FORD C-MAX (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 20,644 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
20,644
Avg Mileage
106,918 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2008 FORD C-MAX reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 16 years old, 70% of FORD C-MAXs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 20,644 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 106,918 miles.
How does the 2008 FORD C-MAX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 FORD C-MAX has 106,918 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a FORD C-MAX?
The most reliable year is the 2017 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2008 sits between the two at 70%.
How much does a 2008 FORD C-MAX cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
FORD C-MAX by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 89% | 4,088 | 29,407 mi |
| 2018 | 88% | 7,473 | 38,716 mi |
| 2017 | 89% | 12,205 | 49,310 mi |
| 2016 | 87% | 16,187 | 57,178 mi |
| 2015 | 84% | 18,133 | 67,354 mi |
| 2014 | 81% | 20,906 | 75,455 mi |
| 2013 | 81% | 22,772 | 83,990 mi |
| 2012 | 78% | 18,606 | 90,312 mi |
| 2011 | 77% | 18,422 | 97,077 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 10,975 | 99,038 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 10,153 | 102,785 mi |
| 2008 | 70% | 20,644 | 106,918 mi |
| 2007 | 70% | 9,390 | 109,991 mi |
| 2006 | 68% | 556 | 121,707 mi |
| 2005 | 75% | 59 | 114,897 mi |
Checking a specific FORD C-MAX?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 FORD C-MAX
The 2008 FORD C-MAX is a family car with a 1753cc diesel engine. 20,644 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 106,918 miles at 16 years old, FORD C-MAX owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 FORD C-MAX Fuel Costs
The 1753cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2008 FORD C-MAX?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FORD C-MAX Reliability Trend
Newer FORD C-MAXs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 12 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 FORD C-MAX
At 16 years old, the FORD C-MAX is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2017 model has the highest pass rate at 89%. With 20,644 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2008 FORD C-MAX
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2009) 72% pass rate (+2%) from 180,029 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (+4%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2010) 77% pass rate (+7%) from 87,733 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (+4%) from 75,715 tests