HYUNDAI SANTA FE (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,054 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
1,054
Avg Mileage
119,124 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2004 HYUNDAI SANTA FE reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the HYUNDAI brand average of 83%.
At 20 years old, 70% of HYUNDAI SANTA FEs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,054 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 119,124 miles.
How does the 2004 HYUNDAI SANTA FE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 HYUNDAI SANTA FE has 119,124 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a HYUNDAI SANTA FE?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 61%. The 2004 sits between the two at 70%.
How much does a 2004 HYUNDAI SANTA FE 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.
HYUNDAI SANTA FE by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 89% | 1,002 | 29,234 mi |
| 2020 | 94% | 1,279 | 35,189 mi |
| 2019 | 89% | 2,285 | 43,694 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 3,459 | 52,064 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 4,595 | 61,527 mi |
| 2016 | 86% | 7,907 | 67,815 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 5,704 | 76,900 mi |
| 2014 | 79% | 4,992 | 88,159 mi |
| 2013 | 76% | 2,963 | 95,138 mi |
| 2012 | 74% | 6,090 | 103,389 mi |
| 2011 | 72% | 6,616 | 113,847 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 6,348 | 118,050 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 1,368 | 112,515 mi |
| 2008 | 72% | 1,527 | 121,485 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 2,446 | 126,098 mi |
| 2006 | 69% | 2,452 | 115,781 mi |
| 2005 | 69% | 1,436 | 122,489 mi |
| 2004 | 70% | 1,054 | 119,124 mi |
| 2003 | 68% | 620 | 117,994 mi |
| 2002 | 69% | 254 | 114,308 mi |
| 2001 | 61% | 138 | 99,758 mi |
Checking a specific HYUNDAI SANTA FE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
The 2004 HYUNDAI SANTA FE is a large car with a 2655cc petrol engine. 1,054 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 119,124 miles at 20 years old, HYUNDAI SANTA FE owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 HYUNDAI SANTA FE Fuel Costs
The 2655cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 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 HYUNDAI SANTA FE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 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.
HYUNDAI SANTA FE Reliability Trend
Newer HYUNDAI SANTA FEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
At 20 years old, the HYUNDAI SANTA FE 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 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Alternatives to the 2004 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES E (2005) 78% pass rate (+8%) from 8,269 tests
- NISSAN X-TRAIL (2006) 67% pass rate (-3%) from 8,112 tests
- BMW X3 (2006) 78% pass rate (+8%) from 6,611 tests
- MERCEDES SLK (2004) 78% pass rate (+8%) from 6,598 tests