FORD FOCUS C-MAX (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 4,727 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
65%
Total Tests (2024)
4,727
Avg Mileage
118,062 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,217
Is the 2004 FORD FOCUS C-MAX reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 17 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 20 years old, 65% of FORD FOCUS C-MAXs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 4,727 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 118,062 miles.
How does the 2004 FORD FOCUS C-MAX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 FORD FOCUS C-MAX has 118,062 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 FORD FOCUS C-MAX?
The most reliable year is the 2011 model with a 78% 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 FORD FOCUS C-MAX 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.
FORD FOCUS C-MAX by Year
Checking a specific FORD FOCUS C-MAX?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 FORD FOCUS C-MAX
The 2004 FORD FOCUS C-MAX is a family car with a 1798cc petrol engine. 4,727 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 89% of 2004 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 118,062 miles at 20 years old, FORD FOCUS C-MAX owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2004 FORD FOCUS C-MAX Fuel Costs
The 1798cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 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 FORD FOCUS C-MAX?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,217 (£185/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 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.
FORD FOCUS C-MAX Reliability Trend
Newer FORD FOCUS C-MAXs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 FORD FOCUS C-MAX
At 20 years old, the FORD FOCUS C-MAX 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 FORD FOCUS C-MAX
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