MG ZS (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 644 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
644
Avg Mileage
89,991 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2004 MG ZS reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MG brand average of 86%.
At 20 years old, 75% of MG ZSs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 644 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 89,991 miles.
How does the 2004 MG ZS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 MG ZS has 89,991 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 MG ZS?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 87% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2004 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2004 MG ZS cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MG ZS by Year
Checking a specific MG ZS?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 MG ZS
The 2004 MG ZS is a family car with a 1796cc petrol engine. 644 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 89,991 miles at 20 years old, MG ZS owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2004 MG ZS Fuel Costs
The 1796cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 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 MG ZS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MG ZS Reliability Trend
Newer MG ZSs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 MG ZS
At 20 years old, the MG ZS 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 87%.
Alternatives to the 2004 MG ZS
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car 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 (-4%) from 45,707 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2006) 80% pass rate (+5%) from 40,353 tests
- HONDA JAZZ (2006) 71% pass rate (-4%) from 35,054 tests