SEAT ALTEA (2009)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,630 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
73%
Total Tests (2024)
2,630
Avg Mileage
117,296 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2009 SEAT ALTEA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 9 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SEAT brand average of 85%.
At 15 years old, 73% of SEAT ALTEAs from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,630 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 117,296 miles.
How does the 2009 SEAT ALTEA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2009 SEAT ALTEA has 117,296 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-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%. The 2009 sits between the two at 73%.
How much does a 2009 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 2009 SEAT ALTEA
The 2009 SEAT ALTEA is a family car with a 1968cc diesel engine. 2,630 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 117,296 miles at 15 years old, SEAT ALTEA owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2009 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 2009 SEAT ALTEA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 73% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
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 2009 SEAT ALTEA
At 15 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2015 model has the highest pass rate at 83%.
Alternatives to the 2009 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 (2011) 78% pass rate (+5%) from 97,916 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (+1%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (+1%) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2011) 81% pass rate (+8%) from 57,568 tests