FORD S-MAX (2010)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 16,703 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
16,703
Avg Mileage
125,655 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2010 FORD S-MAX reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 14 years old, 75% of FORD S-MAXs from 2010 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 16,703 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 125,655 miles.
How does the 2010 FORD S-MAX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2010 FORD S-MAX has 125,655 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 103,600 miles for a 14-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 2010 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2010 FORD S-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 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 2010 FORD S-MAX
The 2010 FORD S-MAX is a family car with a 1997cc diesel engine. 16,703 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2010, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 125,655 miles at 14 years old, FORD S-MAX owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2010 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 2010 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 75% 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 2010 FORD S-MAX
At 14 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 16,703 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2010 FORD S-MAX
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2012) 80% pass rate (+5%) from 98,183 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-1%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-1%) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2012) 82% pass rate (+7%) from 68,955 tests