KIA RIO (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 625 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
64%
Total Tests (2024)
625
Avg Mileage
68,036 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,922
Is the 2004 KIA RIO reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 18 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the KIA brand average of 86%.
At 20 years old, 64% of KIA RIOs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 625 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 68,036 miles.
How does the 2004 KIA RIO compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 KIA RIO has 68,036 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a KIA RIO?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 95% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 64%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2004 KIA RIO 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 RIO by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 95% | 233 | 24,400 mi |
| 2021 | 95% | 3,310 | 21,750 mi |
| 2020 | 91% | 5,121 | 26,035 mi |
| 2019 | 89% | 7,841 | 32,113 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 9,260 | 40,153 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 13,147 | 49,022 mi |
| 2016 | 85% | 14,178 | 52,518 mi |
| 2015 | 84% | 18,619 | 60,725 mi |
| 2014 | 78% | 19,328 | 70,276 mi |
| 2013 | 76% | 17,756 | 77,717 mi |
| 2012 | 74% | 16,466 | 85,239 mi |
| 2011 | 72% | 12,394 | 82,872 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 11,025 | 87,460 mi |
| 2009 | 71% | 8,764 | 85,404 mi |
| 2008 | 68% | 3,800 | 92,973 mi |
| 2007 | 67% | 2,363 | 93,975 mi |
| 2006 | 69% | 1,766 | 94,045 mi |
| 2005 | 69% | 1,019 | 84,192 mi |
| 2004 | 64% | 625 | 68,036 mi |
| 2003 | 65% | 300 | 72,062 mi |
| 2002 | 68% | 184 | 68,384 mi |
| 2001 | 67% | 42 | 59,195 mi |
Checking a specific KIA RIO?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 KIA RIO
The 2004 KIA RIO is a small family car with a 1399cc petrol engine. 625 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 94% of 2004 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 68,036 miles at 20 years old, KIA RIO owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2004 KIA RIO Fuel Costs
The 1399cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 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 KIA RIO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,922 (£160/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 64% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
KIA RIO Reliability Trend
Newer KIA RIOs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 17 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 KIA RIO
At 20 years old, the KIA RIO 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 KIA RIO
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 (+9%) from 56,257 tests
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (+7%) from 45,707 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2006) 80% pass rate (+16%) from 40,353 tests
- HONDA JAZZ (2006) 71% pass rate (+7%) from 35,054 tests