AUTO-TRAIL FIAT (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 73 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
73
Avg Mileage
43,365 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2004 AUTO-TRAIL FIAT reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the AUTO-TRAIL brand average of 77%.
At 20 years old, 82% of AUTO-TRAIL FIATs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 73 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 43,365 miles.
How does the 2004 AUTO-TRAIL FIAT compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 AUTO-TRAIL FIAT has 43,365 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a AUTO-TRAIL FIAT?
The most reliable year is the 2005 model with a 82% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 75%. The 2004 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2004 AUTO-TRAIL FIAT 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.
AUTO-TRAIL FIAT by Year
Checking a specific AUTO-TRAIL FIAT?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 AUTO-TRAIL FIAT
The 2004 AUTO-TRAIL FIAT is a large car with a 2800cc diesel engine. 73 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 21% of all 2004 cars for reliability.
With an average of 43,365 miles at 20 years old, AUTO-TRAIL FIAT owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2004 AUTO-TRAIL FIAT Fuel Costs
The 2800cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 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 AUTO-TRAIL FIAT?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
AUTO-TRAIL FIAT Reliability Trend
Newer AUTO-TRAIL FIATs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 AUTO-TRAIL FIAT
At 20 years old, the AUTO-TRAIL FIAT 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 2005 model has the highest pass rate at 82%. Note: with only 73 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2004 AUTO-TRAIL FIAT
The AUTO-TRAIL FIAT is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel large cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2005) 78% pass rate (-4%) from 24,924 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2006) 73% pass rate (-9%) from 23,355 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2006) 78% pass rate (-4%) from 17,245 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT (2006) 81% pass rate (-1%) from 14,133 tests