MERCEDES A-CLASS (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,470 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
2,470
Avg Mileage
84,566 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,722
Is the 2004 MERCEDES A-CLASS reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 20 years old, 71% of MERCEDES A-CLASSs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,470 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 84,566 miles.
How does the 2004 MERCEDES A-CLASS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 MERCEDES A-CLASS has 84,566 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 MERCEDES A-CLASS?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 95% MOT pass rate, while the 1999 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2004 sits between the two at 71%.
How much does a 2004 MERCEDES A-CLASS 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.
MERCEDES A-CLASS by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 95% | 204 | 20,573 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 296 | 25,924 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 17,959 | 42,922 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 81,134 | 48,596 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 82,055 | 58,788 mi |
| 2016 | 86% | 78,925 | 68,387 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 57,434 | 77,575 mi |
| 2014 | 83% | 51,817 | 86,660 mi |
| 2013 | 83% | 34,582 | 92,179 mi |
| 2012 | 79% | 9,525 | 74,077 mi |
| 2011 | 78% | 9,398 | 73,721 mi |
| 2010 | 76% | 11,300 | 79,296 mi |
| 2009 | 75% | 12,533 | 84,461 mi |
| 2008 | 74% | 12,272 | 89,507 mi |
| 2007 | 74% | 11,036 | 91,201 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 8,389 | 91,943 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 5,552 | 88,124 mi |
| 2004 | 71% | 2,470 | 84,566 mi |
| 2003 | 71% | 2,442 | 81,910 mi |
| 2002 | 70% | 1,766 | 83,515 mi |
| 2001 | 72% | 1,096 | 88,180 mi |
| 2000 | 69% | 516 | 80,481 mi |
| 1999 | 68% | 526 | 79,332 mi |
| 1998 | 72% | 72 | 85,941 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES A-CLASS?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 MERCEDES A-CLASS
The 2004 MERCEDES A-CLASS is a small family car with a 1397cc petrol engine. 2,470 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 84,566 miles at 20 years old, MERCEDES A-CLASS owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2004 MERCEDES A-CLASS Fuel Costs
The 1397cc 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 MERCEDES A-CLASS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,722 (£144/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £30 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.
MERCEDES A-CLASS Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES A-CLASSs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 MERCEDES A-CLASS
At 20 years old, the MERCEDES A-CLASS 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 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 95%.
Alternatives to the 2004 MERCEDES A-CLASS
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2006) 73% pass rate (+2%) from 56,257 tests
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (same) from 45,707 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2006) 80% pass rate (+9%) from 40,353 tests
- HONDA JAZZ (2006) 71% pass rate (same) from 35,054 tests