AUDI A6 (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,156 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
2,156
Avg Mileage
155,383 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2004 AUDI A6 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the AUDI brand average of 90%.
At 20 years old, 75% of AUDI A6s from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,156 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 155,383 miles.
How does the 2004 AUDI A6 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 AUDI A6 has 155,383 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a AUDI A6?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 71%. The 2004 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2004 AUDI A6 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.
AUDI A6 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 93% | 2,105 | 36,146 mi |
| 2020 | 94% | 3,470 | 42,761 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 16,657 | 54,594 mi |
| 2018 | 92% | 16,546 | 62,634 mi |
| 2017 | 91% | 19,296 | 75,408 mi |
| 2016 | 89% | 26,437 | 85,249 mi |
| 2015 | 89% | 22,966 | 96,950 mi |
| 2014 | 88% | 21,808 | 106,355 mi |
| 2013 | 87% | 20,882 | 115,551 mi |
| 2012 | 86% | 16,143 | 125,550 mi |
| 2011 | 82% | 13,126 | 135,985 mi |
| 2010 | 81% | 12,471 | 143,668 mi |
| 2009 | 81% | 8,341 | 150,654 mi |
| 2008 | 80% | 11,124 | 156,627 mi |
| 2007 | 79% | 10,782 | 162,839 mi |
| 2006 | 78% | 6,542 | 165,663 mi |
| 2005 | 78% | 3,534 | 163,283 mi |
| 2004 | 75% | 2,156 | 155,383 mi |
| 2003 | 74% | 1,408 | 153,657 mi |
| 2002 | 73% | 771 | 164,916 mi |
| 2001 | 78% | 356 | 157,216 mi |
| 2000 | 75% | 389 | 150,802 mi |
| 1999 | 73% | 410 | 157,368 mi |
| 1998 | 76% | 222 | 151,701 mi |
| 1997 | 71% | 215 | 176,094 mi |
| 1996 | 78% | 316 | 189,126 mi |
| 1995 | 76% | 136 | 162,842 mi |
| 1994 | 81% | 53 | 140,857 mi |
Checking a specific AUDI A6?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 AUDI A6
The 2004 AUDI A6 is a premium with a 1871cc diesel engine. 2,156 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 155,383 miles at 20 years old, AUDI A6 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 AUDI A6 Fuel Costs
The 1871cc 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 2004 AUDI A6?
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.
AUDI A6 Reliability Trend
Newer AUDI A6s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 11 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 AUDI A6
At 20 years old, the AUDI A6 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 94%.
Alternatives to the 2004 AUDI A6
The AUDI A6 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2006) 70% pass rate (-5%) from 81,463 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2006) 72% pass rate (-3%) from 60,321 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2006) 68% pass rate (-7%) from 39,766 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2005) 69% pass rate (-6%) from 29,377 tests