FIAT AUTO TRAIL (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 827 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
90%
Total Tests (2024)
827
Avg Mileage
32,554 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,750
Is the 2012 FIAT AUTO TRAIL reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 8 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the FIAT brand average of 83%.
At 12 years old, 90% of FIAT AUTO TRAILs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 827 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 32,554 miles.
How does the 2012 FIAT AUTO TRAIL compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 FIAT AUTO TRAIL has 32,554 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-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 FIAT AUTO TRAIL?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 96% MOT pass rate, while the 2011 model has the lowest at 90%. The 2012 sits between the two at 90%.
How much does a 2012 FIAT AUTO TRAIL 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.
FIAT AUTO TRAIL by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 94% | 594 | 9,452 mi |
| 2020 | 96% | 968 | 11,804 mi |
| 2019 | 95% | 2,414 | 13,636 mi |
| 2018 | 95% | 2,572 | 16,870 mi |
| 2017 | 95% | 2,170 | 19,419 mi |
| 2016 | 94% | 2,243 | 22,559 mi |
| 2015 | 93% | 1,906 | 24,922 mi |
| 2014 | 90% | 1,100 | 29,040 mi |
| 2013 | 92% | 1,117 | 29,560 mi |
| 2012 | 90% | 827 | 32,554 mi |
| 2011 | 90% | 218 | 35,939 mi |
| 2010 | 97% | 38 | 39,494 mi |
| 2007 | 71% | 41 | 54,210 mi |
| 2006 | 74% | 43 | 62,588 mi |
| 2005 | 60% | 35 | 51,542 mi |
Checking a specific FIAT AUTO TRAIL?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 FIAT AUTO TRAIL
The 2012 FIAT AUTO TRAIL is a large car with a 2287cc diesel engine. 827 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 17% of all 2012 cars for reliability.
With an average of 32,554 miles at 12 years old, FIAT AUTO TRAIL 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.
2012 FIAT AUTO TRAIL Fuel Costs
The 2287cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. 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 2012 FIAT AUTO TRAIL?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,750 (£146/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 90% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
FIAT AUTO TRAIL Reliability Trend
Newer FIAT AUTO TRAILs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 FIAT AUTO TRAIL
At 12 years old, the FIAT AUTO TRAIL 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 96%.
Alternatives to the 2012 FIAT AUTO TRAIL
The FIAT AUTO TRAIL is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel large cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2012) 80% pass rate (-10%) from 98,183 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-16%) from 92,611 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2013) 85% pass rate (-5%) from 71,326 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2014) 77% pass rate (-13%) from 59,048 tests