FIAT IDEA (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 245 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
65%
Total Tests (2024)
245
Avg Mileage
78,204 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,922
Is the 2004 FIAT IDEA reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 17 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FIAT brand average of 83%.
At 20 years old, 65% of FIAT IDEAs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 245 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 78,204 miles.
How does the 2004 FIAT IDEA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 FIAT IDEA has 78,204 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a FIAT IDEA?
The most reliable year is the 2006 model with a 72% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 65%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2004 FIAT IDEA cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
FIAT IDEA by Year
Checking a specific FIAT IDEA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 FIAT IDEA
The 2004 FIAT IDEA is a small family car with a 1368cc petrol engine. 245 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 91% of 2004 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 78,204 miles at 20 years old, FIAT IDEA owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2004 FIAT IDEA Fuel Costs
The 1368cc 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 2004 FIAT IDEA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,922 (£160/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 65% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
FIAT IDEA Reliability Trend
The FIAT IDEA has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 FIAT IDEA
At 20 years old, the FIAT IDEA 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.
Alternatives to the 2004 FIAT IDEA
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2006) 73% pass rate (+8%) from 56,257 tests
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (+6%) from 45,707 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2006) 80% pass rate (+15%) from 40,353 tests
- HONDA JAZZ (2006) 71% pass rate (+6%) from 35,054 tests