FIAT SCUDO (1997)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 67 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,707
£142/month
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Good
Road Tax
£265
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1905cc Diesel
Solid Option
81% pass rate, £1707/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~48 mpg
Based on 1905cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 29 years old, 81% of FIAT SCUDOs from 1997 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 67 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 143,158 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
143,158
Average miles
214,600
Expected for age
The average 1997 FIAT SCUDO has 143,158 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 214,600 miles for a 29-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 1999 model with a 81% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 65%. The 1997 sits between the two at 81%.
FIAT SCUDO by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 75% | 239 | 112,373 mi | |
| 2015 | 71% | 520 | 105,818 mi | |
| 2014 | 75% | 620 | 115,918 mi | |
| 2013 | 76% | 871 | 133,168 mi | |
| 2012 | 69% | 990 | 129,660 mi | |
| 2011 | 70% | 1,219 | 151,769 mi | |
| 2010 | 73% | 932 | 159,863 mi | |
| 2009 | 70% | 997 | 156,008 mi | |
| 2008 | 68% | 2,426 | 157,142 mi | |
| 2007 | 66% | 2,303 | 149,226 mi | |
| 2006 | 65% | 1,616 | 138,557 mi | |
| 2005 | 65% | 1,173 | 136,977 mi | |
| 2004 | 65% | 777 | 126,342 mi | |
| 2003 | 67% | 551 | 123,463 mi | |
| 2002 | 71% | 321 | 116,675 mi | |
| 2001 | 68% | 299 | 125,724 mi | |
| 2000 | 75% | 199 | 107,735 mi | |
| 1999 | 81% | 208 | 89,308 mi | |
| 1998 | 78% | 117 | 120,856 mi | |
| 1997 | 81% | 67 | 143,158 mi |
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 1997 FIAT SCUDO
The 1997 FIAT SCUDO is a family car with a 1905cc diesel engine. 67 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 1997, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 143,158 miles at 29 years old, FIAT SCUDO owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1997 FIAT SCUDO Fuel Costs
The 1905cc 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 1997 FIAT SCUDO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,707 (£142/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £265 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FIAT SCUDO Reliability Trend
The FIAT SCUDO has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 0 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1997 FIAT SCUDO
At 29 years old, the FIAT SCUDO 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 1999 model has the highest pass rate at 81%. Note: with only 67 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 1997 FIAT SCUDO's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Watch outDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 143k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Engine Mounts
Medium riskWorn engine mounts cause excessive vibration and movement. Replacement costs £150-£400 per mount. Check for vibration at idle with the bonnet open.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 1997 FIAT SCUDO stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FIAT SCUDO(1997) | 81% | £1037 | £265 | Grp 18-32 | £1707 |
| VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER(1995) | 69% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £2250+£543 |
| FIAT DUCATO(1999) | 72% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1727+£20 |
| FORD FIESTA(1998) | 65% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1927+£220 |
| MERCEDES C(1997) | 81% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £1900+£193 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Fiat Models
Explore other Fiat cars or similar models in the same category.
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