FORD C-MAX (2018)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 7,473 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
7,473
Avg Mileage
38,716 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,500
Is the 2018 FORD C-MAX reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 6 years old, 88% of FORD C-MAXs from 2018 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 7,473 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 38,716 miles.
How does the 2018 FORD C-MAX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2018 FORD C-MAX has 38,716 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 44,400 miles for a 6-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 2018 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 2018 FORD C-MAX cost to run?
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 2018 FORD C-MAX
The 2018 FORD C-MAX is a small family car with a 1499cc diesel engine. 7,473 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2018, the average MOT pass rate is 89%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 38,716 miles at 6 years old, FORD C-MAX owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2018 FORD C-MAX Fuel Costs
The 1499cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 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 2018 FORD C-MAX?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,500 (£125/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 88% 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 2018 FORD C-MAX
At 6 years old, the FORD C-MAX offers good value with plenty of life remaining. Most manufacturer warranties will have expired, so a pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost. If you're flexible on year, the 2017 model has the highest pass rate at 89%. With 7,473 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2018 FORD C-MAX
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2017) 91% pass rate (+3%) from 127,682 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (+1%) from 93,803 tests
- MERCEDES A (2019) 91% pass rate (+3%) from 89,588 tests
- MERCEDES A-CLASS (2017) 88% pass rate (same) from 82,055 tests