FORD S-MAX (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 9,323 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
9,323
Avg Mileage
143,734 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2008 FORD S-MAX reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 16 years old, 71% of FORD S-MAXs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 9,323 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 143,734 miles.
How does the 2008 FORD S-MAX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 FORD S-MAX has 143,734 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
Best year to buy a FORD S-MAX?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 69%. The 2008 sits between the two at 71%.
How much does a 2008 FORD S-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 S-MAX by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 87% | 1,832 | 32,060 mi |
| 2020 | 89% | 2,711 | 36,267 mi |
| 2019 | 85% | 4,133 | 45,474 mi |
| 2018 | 86% | 3,879 | 53,815 mi |
| 2017 | 86% | 8,910 | 66,218 mi |
| 2016 | 85% | 11,499 | 72,403 mi |
| 2015 | 81% | 5,624 | 80,981 mi |
| 2014 | 77% | 11,793 | 93,914 mi |
| 2013 | 75% | 11,792 | 102,349 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 13,192 | 110,834 mi |
| 2011 | 76% | 12,169 | 120,774 mi |
| 2010 | 75% | 16,703 | 125,655 mi |
| 2009 | 71% | 11,518 | 135,721 mi |
| 2008 | 71% | 9,323 | 143,734 mi |
| 2007 | 70% | 9,374 | 144,791 mi |
| 2006 | 69% | 3,115 | 142,042 mi |
Checking a specific FORD S-MAX?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 FORD S-MAX
The 2008 FORD S-MAX is a family car with a 1997cc diesel engine. 9,323 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight 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 143,734 miles at 16 years old, FORD S-MAX owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2008 FORD S-MAX Fuel Costs
The 1997cc 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 S-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 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FORD S-MAX Reliability Trend
Newer FORD S-MAXs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 12 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 FORD S-MAX
At 16 years old, the FORD S-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 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 89%. With 9,323 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2008 FORD S-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:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (+3%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2010) 77% pass rate (+6%) from 87,733 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (+3%) from 75,715 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (+1%) from 45,025 tests