FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN (1998)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 57 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
57
Avg Mileage
103,197 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,577
Is the 1998 FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 26 years old, 82% of FIAT MOTOR CARAVANs from 1998 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 57 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 103,197 miles.
How does the 1998 FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1998 FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN has 103,197 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 192,400 miles for a 26-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 1999 model has the lowest at 67%. The 1998 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 1998 FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN 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 MOTOR CARAVAN by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 92% | 66 | 39,734 mi |
| 2011 | 91% | 53 | 46,277 mi |
| 2008 | 76% | 63 | 42,291 mi |
| 2007 | 83% | 87 | 62,597 mi |
| 2006 | 71% | 80 | 60,663 mi |
| 2005 | 72% | 69 | 56,922 mi |
| 2004 | 87% | 77 | 58,316 mi |
| 2003 | 74% | 80 | 63,595 mi |
| 2002 | 67% | 49 | 70,049 mi |
| 2001 | 74% | 43 | 55,851 mi |
| 2000 | 69% | 75 | 64,943 mi |
| 1999 | 67% | 52 | 79,777 mi |
| 1998 | 82% | 57 | 103,197 mi |
| 1997 | 75% | 36 | 79,766 mi |
| 1992 | 77% | 44 | 110,725 mi |
Checking a specific FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1998 FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN
The 1998 FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN is a family car with a 1900cc diesel engine. 57 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 24% of all 1998 cars for reliability.
With an average of 103,197 miles at 26 years old, FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1998 FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN Fuel Costs
The 1900cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 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 1998 FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,577 (£131/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 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.
FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN Reliability Trend
Newer FIAT MOTOR CARAVANs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1998 FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN
At 26 years old, the FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN 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 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 92%. Note: with only 57 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 1998 FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN
The FIAT MOTOR CARAVAN is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2000) 77% pass rate (-5%) from 4,799 tests
- FIAT DUCATO (1999) 72% pass rate (-10%) from 4,393 tests
- FORD FIESTA (1998) 65% pass rate (-17%) from 4,382 tests
- MERCEDES C (1997) 81% pass rate (-1%) from 2,336 tests