SEAT ALTEA (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 477 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
66%
Total Tests (2024)
477
Avg Mileage
126,960 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,927
Is the 2004 SEAT ALTEA reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 16 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SEAT brand average of 85%.
At 20 years old, 66% of SEAT ALTEAs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 477 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 126,960 miles.
How does the 2004 SEAT ALTEA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 SEAT ALTEA has 126,960 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a SEAT ALTEA?
The most reliable year is the 2015 model with a 83% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 66%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2004 SEAT ALTEA 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.
SEAT ALTEA by Year
Checking a specific SEAT ALTEA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 SEAT ALTEA
The 2004 SEAT ALTEA is a family car with a 1968cc diesel engine. 477 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 87% of 2004 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 126,960 miles at 20 years old, SEAT ALTEA owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 SEAT ALTEA Fuel Costs
The 1968cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 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 SEAT ALTEA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,927 (£161/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 66% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
SEAT ALTEA Reliability Trend
Newer SEAT ALTEAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 SEAT ALTEA
At 20 years old, the SEAT ALTEA 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 SEAT ALTEA
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2006) 72% pass rate (+6%) from 60,321 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2005) 69% pass rate (+3%) from 29,377 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2006) 71% pass rate (+5%) from 28,045 tests
- AUDI A3 (2006) 73% pass rate (+7%) from 24,088 tests