KIA CARENS (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 188 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
188
Avg Mileage
91,805 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,595
Is the 2012 KIA CARENS reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the KIA brand average of 86%.
At 12 years old, 71% of KIA CARENSs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 188 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 91,805 miles.
How does the 2012 KIA CARENS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 KIA CARENS has 91,805 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-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 2012 sits between the two at 71%.
How much does a 2012 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 2012 KIA CARENS
The 2012 KIA CARENS is a small family car with a 1582cc diesel engine. 188 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 92% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 91,805 miles at 12 years old, KIA CARENS owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 KIA CARENS Fuel Costs
The 1582cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 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 2012 KIA CARENS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,595 (£133/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
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 2012 KIA CARENS
At 12 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 2012 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:
- FORD FIESTA (2013) 77% pass rate (+6%) from 211,536 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2014) 87% pass rate (+16%) from 120,417 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (+8%) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2014) 80% pass rate (+9%) from 81,831 tests