FORD S-MAX (2020)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,711 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
89%
Total Tests (2024)
2,711
Avg Mileage
36,267 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,632
Is the 2020 FORD S-MAX reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 7 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 4 years old, 89% of FORD S-MAXs from 2020 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,711 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 36,267 miles.
How does the 2020 FORD S-MAX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2020 FORD S-MAX has 36,267 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 29,600 miles for a 4-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
How much does a 2020 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 2020 FORD S-MAX
The 2020 FORD S-MAX is a family car with a 1995cc diesel engine. 2,711 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2020, the average MOT pass rate is 92%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 36,267 miles at 4 years old, FORD S-MAX owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2020 FORD S-MAX Fuel Costs
The 1995cc 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).
What does it cost to own a 2020 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 89% 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 2020 FORD S-MAX
At 4 years old, the FORD S-MAX offers good value with plenty of life remaining. Most manufacturer warranties will have expired, so a pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost.
Alternatives to the 2020 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 (2018) 92% pass rate (+3%) from 111,972 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (same) from 93,803 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2018) 84% pass rate (-5%) from 79,867 tests
- FORD KUGA (2019) 91% pass rate (+2%) from 72,831 tests