KIA CARENS (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,934 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
68%
Total Tests (2024)
1,934
Avg Mileage
102,459 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,927
Is the 2008 KIA CARENS reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 14 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the KIA brand average of 86%.
At 16 years old, 68% of KIA CARENSs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,934 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 102,459 miles.
How does the 2008 KIA CARENS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 KIA CARENS has 102,459 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a KIA CARENS?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 83% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 57%. The 2008 sits between the two at 68%.
How much does a 2008 KIA CARENS 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.
KIA CARENS by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 83% | 139 | 51,500 mi |
| 2018 | 83% | 2,703 | 52,577 mi |
| 2017 | 82% | 3,168 | 61,814 mi |
| 2016 | 79% | 3,019 | 70,759 mi |
| 2015 | 79% | 3,585 | 80,429 mi |
| 2014 | 78% | 3,824 | 87,028 mi |
| 2013 | 77% | 2,513 | 94,445 mi |
| 2012 | 71% | 188 | 91,805 mi |
| 2011 | 69% | 664 | 98,764 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 601 | 99,736 mi |
| 2009 | 69% | 2,077 | 100,124 mi |
| 2008 | 68% | 1,934 | 102,459 mi |
| 2007 | 66% | 855 | 106,122 mi |
| 2006 | 62% | 554 | 95,903 mi |
| 2005 | 57% | 275 | 89,214 mi |
| 2004 | 66% | 195 | 79,548 mi |
| 2003 | 63% | 97 | 71,057 mi |
Checking a specific KIA CARENS?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 KIA CARENS
The 2008 KIA CARENS is a family car with a 1998cc diesel engine. 1,934 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 86% of 2008 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 102,459 miles at 16 years old, KIA CARENS owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 KIA CARENS Fuel Costs
The 1998cc 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 2008 KIA CARENS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,927 (£161/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 68% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
KIA CARENS Reliability Trend
Newer KIA CARENSs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 12 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 KIA CARENS
At 16 years old, the KIA CARENS 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 2018 model has the highest pass rate at 83%.
Alternatives to the 2008 KIA CARENS
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (+6%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2010) 77% pass rate (+9%) from 87,733 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (+6%) from 75,715 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (+4%) from 45,025 tests