FIAT IDEA (2005)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 155 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
155
Avg Mileage
78,400 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,490
Is the 2005 FIAT IDEA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FIAT brand average of 83%.
At 19 years old, 70% of FIAT IDEAs from 2005 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 155 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 78,400 miles.
How does the 2005 FIAT IDEA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2005 FIAT IDEA has 78,400 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 140,600 miles for a 19-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%. The 2005 sits between the two at 70%.
How much does a 2005 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 2005 FIAT IDEA
The 2005 FIAT IDEA is a small family car with a 1248cc diesel engine. 155 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2005, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 78,400 miles at 19 years old, FIAT IDEA owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2005 FIAT IDEA Fuel Costs
The 1248cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 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 2005 FIAT IDEA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,490 (£124/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
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 2005 FIAT IDEA
At 19 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2006 model has the highest pass rate at 72%.
Alternatives to the 2005 FIAT IDEA
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2007) 72% pass rate (+2%) from 99,442 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2007) 71% pass rate (+1%) from 71,923 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2007) 72% pass rate (+2%) from 65,133 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2007) 70% pass rate (same) from 45,463 tests