CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 32 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
84%
Total Tests (2024)
32
Avg Mileage
12,150 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,677
Is the 2008 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the CATERHAM brand average of 91%.
At 16 years old, 84% of CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIEDs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 32 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 12,150 miles.
How does the 2008 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED has 12,150 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-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 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED?
The most reliable year is the 2015 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 2021 model has the lowest at 86%. The 2008 sits between the two at 84%.
How much does a 2008 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED 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.
CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 86% | 203 | 4,806 mi |
| 2020 | 91% | 181 | 5,349 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 327 | 5,345 mi |
| 2018 | 92% | 355 | 6,207 mi |
| 2017 | 92% | 321 | 8,044 mi |
| 2016 | 91% | 247 | 11,388 mi |
| 2015 | 97% | 65 | 11,540 mi |
| 2014 | 88% | 40 | 8,392 mi |
| 2013 | 92% | 222 | 14,969 mi |
| 2012 | 90% | 88 | 15,657 mi |
| 2011 | 84% | 38 | 11,795 mi |
| 2010 | 100% | 30 | 14,394 mi |
| 2008 | 84% | 32 | 12,150 mi |
| 2006 | 89% | 38 | 17,088 mi |
| 1999 | 85% | 48 | 22,308 mi |
Checking a specific CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED
The 2008 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED is a small family car with a 1598cc petrol engine. 32 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 24% of all 2008 cars for reliability.
With an average of 12,150 miles at 16 years old, CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED 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.
2008 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED Fuel Costs
The 1598cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 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 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,677 (£140/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 84% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED Reliability Trend
The CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED
At 16 years old, the CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED 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 2015 model has the highest pass rate at 97%. Note: with only 32 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2008 CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED
The CATERHAM UNCLASSIFIED is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol small family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2008) 72% pass rate (-12%) from 109,443 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2009) 74% pass rate (-10%) from 105,193 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2010) 74% pass rate (-10%) from 99,909 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2010) 67% pass rate (-17%) from 60,994 tests