FORD S-MAX (2017)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 8,910 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
86%
Total Tests (2024)
8,910
Avg Mileage
66,218 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,632
Is the 2017 FORD S-MAX reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 7 years old, 86% of FORD S-MAXs from 2017 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 8,910 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 66,218 miles.
How does the 2017 FORD S-MAX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2017 FORD S-MAX has 66,218 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 51,800 miles for a 7-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 2017 sits between the two at 86%.
How much does a 2017 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 2017 FORD S-MAX
The 2017 FORD S-MAX is a family car with a 1997cc diesel engine. 8,910 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2017, the average MOT pass rate is 87%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 66,218 miles at 7 years old, FORD S-MAX owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2017 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 2017 FORD S-MAX?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,632 (£136/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 86% 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 2017 FORD S-MAX
At 7 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 89%. With 8,910 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2017 FORD S-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 (+5%) from 127,682 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (+3%) from 93,803 tests
- AUDI A3 (2015) 88% pass rate (+2%) from 80,797 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2017) 81% pass rate (-5%) from 80,031 tests