HONDA SMX (2008)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 36 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,397
£200/month
MOT Pass Rate
64%
Below Avg
Road Tax
£315
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1970cc Petrol
Proceed With Caution
64% pass rate, £2397/year to run. 18 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~36 mpg
Based on 1970cc
Higher estimate due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 18 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the HONDA brand average of 84%.
At 18 years old, 64% of HONDA SMXs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 36 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 151,064 miles.
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Mileage Analysis
151,064
Average miles
133,200
Expected for age
The average 2008 HONDA SMX has 151,064 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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About the 2008 HONDA SMX
The 2008 HONDA SMX is a family car with a 1970cc petrol engine. 36 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 97% of 2008 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 151,064 miles at 18 years old, HONDA SMX owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 HONDA SMX Fuel Costs
The 1970cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2008 HONDA SMX?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £315 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 64% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
Buying a Used 2008 HONDA SMX
At 18 years old, the HONDA SMX 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. Note: with only 36 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2008 HONDA SMX's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 18 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 151k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Engine Mounts
Medium riskWorn engine mounts cause excessive vibration and movement. Replacement costs £150-£400 per mount. Check for vibration at idle with the bonnet open.
Higher Than Average Failure Rate
Watch outWith a 64% MOT pass rate, this model fails more often than most. Budget for unexpected repairs and get a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2008 HONDA SMX stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HONDA SMX(2008) | 64% | £1327 | £315 | Grp 18-32 | £2397 |
| FORD FOCUS(2009) | 74% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£570 |
| NISSAN QASHQAI(2010) | 67% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £2027-£370 |
| MINI MINI(2010) | 80% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1677-£720 |
| BMW 3 SERIES(2007) | 80% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1867-£530 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Honda Models
Explore other Honda cars or similar models in the same category.
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FORD FOCUS
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NISSAN QASHQAI
2010 · 1598cc Petrol
MINI MINI
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