FORD S-MAX (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,832 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
87%
Total Tests (2024)
1,832
Avg Mileage
32,060 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,632
Is the 2021 FORD S-MAX reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 3 years old, 87% of FORD S-MAXs from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,832 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 32,060 miles.
How does the 2021 FORD S-MAX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 FORD S-MAX has 32,060 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-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 2021 sits between the two at 87%.
How much does a 2021 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 2021 FORD S-MAX
The 2021 FORD S-MAX is a family car with a 1995cc diesel engine. 1,832 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 87% of 2021 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 32,060 miles at 3 years old, FORD S-MAX owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2021 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 2021 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 87% 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 2021 FORD S-MAX
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 89%.
Alternatives to the 2021 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:
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (+2%) from 93,803 tests
- FORD KUGA (2019) 91% pass rate (+4%) from 72,831 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2019) 89% pass rate (+2%) from 65,751 tests
- FORD TRANSIT CUSTOM (2019) 87% pass rate (same) from 59,814 tests