FORD MAVERICK (1997)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 149 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
77%
Total Tests (2024)
149
Avg Mileage
123,751 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 1997 FORD MAVERICK reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 27 years old, 77% of FORD MAVERICKs from 1997 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 149 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 123,751 miles.
How does the 1997 FORD MAVERICK compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1997 FORD MAVERICK has 123,751 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 199,800 miles for a 27-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a FORD MAVERICK?
The most reliable year is the 1998 model with a 81% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 68%. The 1997 sits between the two at 77%.
How much does a 1997 FORD MAVERICK 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 MAVERICK by Year
Checking a specific FORD MAVERICK?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1997 FORD MAVERICK
The 1997 FORD MAVERICK is a large car with a 2663cc diesel engine. 149 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 1997, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 123,751 miles at 27 years old, FORD MAVERICK owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1997 FORD MAVERICK Fuel Costs
The 2663cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 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 1997 FORD MAVERICK?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 77% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FORD MAVERICK Reliability Trend
The FORD MAVERICK has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 1 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1997 FORD MAVERICK
At 27 years old, the FORD MAVERICK 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 1998 model has the highest pass rate at 81%.
Alternatives to the 1997 FORD MAVERICK
The FORD MAVERICK is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel large cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (1999) 70% pass rate (-7%) from 12,854 tests
- LAND ROVER DEFENDER (1997) 76% pass rate (-1%) from 10,084 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (1999) 75% pass rate (-2%) from 5,978 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (1998) 72% pass rate (-5%) from 3,080 tests