RENAULT SCENIC (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,217 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
68%
Total Tests (2024)
1,217
Avg Mileage
61,417 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,795
Is the 2004 RENAULT SCENIC reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 14 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the RENAULT brand average of 80%.
At 20 years old, 68% of RENAULT SCENICs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,217 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 61,417 miles.
How does the 2004 RENAULT SCENIC compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 RENAULT SCENIC has 61,417 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 RENAULT SCENIC?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 65%. The 2004 sits between the two at 68%.
How much does a 2004 RENAULT SCENIC 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.
RENAULT SCENIC by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 94% | 31 | 29,602 mi |
| 2019 | 89% | 510 | 28,809 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 982 | 41,337 mi |
| 2017 | 84% | 1,983 | 48,772 mi |
| 2016 | 81% | 1,835 | 57,374 mi |
| 2015 | 78% | 5,255 | 67,031 mi |
| 2014 | 73% | 5,756 | 75,664 mi |
| 2013 | 72% | 5,616 | 81,180 mi |
| 2012 | 72% | 4,840 | 89,261 mi |
| 2011 | 71% | 7,833 | 92,428 mi |
| 2010 | 71% | 11,896 | 102,249 mi |
| 2009 | 69% | 3,844 | 100,802 mi |
| 2008 | 67% | 5,151 | 95,888 mi |
| 2007 | 67% | 6,321 | 95,613 mi |
| 2006 | 67% | 4,187 | 97,053 mi |
| 2005 | 66% | 1,980 | 70,151 mi |
| 2004 | 68% | 1,217 | 61,417 mi |
| 2003 | 69% | 937 | 95,108 mi |
| 2002 | 69% | 750 | 106,745 mi |
| 2001 | 69% | 416 | 110,838 mi |
| 2000 | 65% | 126 | 106,861 mi |
Checking a specific RENAULT SCENIC?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 RENAULT SCENIC
The 2004 RENAULT SCENIC is a small family car with a 1461cc diesel engine. 1,217 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 78% of 2004 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 61,417 miles at 20 years old, RENAULT SCENIC 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 RENAULT SCENIC Fuel Costs
The 1461cc 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 2004 RENAULT SCENIC?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,795 (£150/month), broken down as £905 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.
RENAULT SCENIC Reliability Trend
Newer RENAULT SCENICs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 RENAULT SCENIC
At 20 years old, the RENAULT SCENIC 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 89%.
Alternatives to the 2004 RENAULT SCENIC
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2006) 70% pass rate (+2%) from 81,463 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2006) 72% pass rate (+4%) from 60,321 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2006) 70% pass rate (+2%) from 44,771 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2006) 68% pass rate (same) from 39,766 tests