CarCostCheck

SEAT LEON (2004)

Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,724 real MOT tests in 2024.

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MOT Pass Rate

77%

Total Tests (2024)

2,724

Avg Mileage

136,378 mi

Est. Annual Cost

£1,727

Is the 2004 SEAT LEON reliable?

Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the SEAT brand average of 85%.

At 20 years old, 77% of SEAT LEONs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,724 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 136,378 miles.

How does the 2004 SEAT LEON compare?

Rank among all 2004 cars172th out of 491(top 35%)
Rank among all SEAT models226th out of 311(top 73%)
vs national average-5% (82% avg)
vs 2004 cars average+5% (72% avg)
vs SEAT average-8% (85% avg)

Mileage Analysis

The average 2004 SEAT LEON has 136,378 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 LEON?

The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 90% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 74%. The 2004 sits between the two at 77%.

How much does a 2004 SEAT LEON cost to run?

⛽Fuel (Diesel, 1896cc)
£1,037
🏛️Road Tax
£135
🔧MOT Test
£55
🛠️Predicted Repairs
£500
Total per year£1,727
Per month£144/mo

Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.

SEAT LEON by Year

YearPass RateTestsAvg Mileage
202185%18429,531 mi
202090%13,84038,299 mi
201988%33,66245,808 mi
201888%37,78753,378 mi
201788%32,09263,602 mi
201687%28,07872,877 mi
201586%30,31183,849 mi
201485%33,35993,735 mi
201383%21,374100,080 mi
201279%16,909108,558 mi
201178%12,613114,006 mi
201077%11,322120,467 mi
200977%9,868119,895 mi
200876%9,717124,433 mi
200775%8,629129,414 mi
200674%5,613129,640 mi
200576%3,477130,247 mi
200477%2,724136,378 mi
200376%2,090129,241 mi
200276%1,025126,696 mi
200175%431128,387 mi
200076%92108,063 mi

Checking a specific SEAT LEON?

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About the 2004 SEAT LEON

The 2004 SEAT LEON is a family car with a 1896cc diesel engine. 2,724 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 beats that benchmark.

With an average of 136,378 miles at 20 years old, SEAT LEON owners drive about as much as the UK average.

2004 SEAT LEON Fuel Costs

The 1896cc 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 LEON?

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 77% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.

SEAT LEON Reliability Trend

Newer SEAT LEONs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.

Buying a Used 2004 SEAT LEON

At 20 years old, the SEAT LEON 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 90%.

Alternatives to the 2004 SEAT LEON

The SEAT LEON is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines: