SKODA FABIA (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 3,624 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
3,624
Avg Mileage
104,739 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2002 SKODA FABIA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SKODA brand average of 88%.
At 22 years old, 70% of SKODA FABIAs from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 3,624 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 104,739 miles.
How does the 2002 SKODA FABIA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 SKODA FABIA has 104,739 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a SKODA FABIA?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 69%. The 2002 sits between the two at 70%.
How much does a 2002 SKODA FABIA 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.
SKODA FABIA by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 94% | 34 | 18,192 mi |
| 2021 | 91% | 12,956 | 24,133 mi |
| 2020 | 90% | 16,268 | 27,757 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 22,198 | 33,188 mi |
| 2018 | 86% | 26,403 | 41,076 mi |
| 2017 | 84% | 28,967 | 49,380 mi |
| 2016 | 83% | 31,150 | 56,195 mi |
| 2015 | 83% | 28,165 | 60,895 mi |
| 2014 | 82% | 23,842 | 69,642 mi |
| 2013 | 81% | 31,000 | 76,734 mi |
| 2012 | 79% | 23,970 | 86,178 mi |
| 2011 | 78% | 21,120 | 89,856 mi |
| 2010 | 77% | 18,993 | 91,833 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 24,250 | 91,725 mi |
| 2008 | 71% | 20,115 | 103,040 mi |
| 2007 | 73% | 17,404 | 106,991 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 15,282 | 111,624 mi |
| 2005 | 72% | 12,215 | 114,942 mi |
| 2004 | 71% | 8,612 | 115,795 mi |
| 2003 | 69% | 5,389 | 105,500 mi |
| 2002 | 70% | 3,624 | 104,739 mi |
| 2001 | 71% | 2,604 | 107,277 mi |
| 2000 | 70% | 619 | 94,943 mi |
Checking a specific SKODA FABIA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 SKODA FABIA
The 2002 SKODA FABIA is a family car with a 1896cc diesel engine. 3,624 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 104,739 miles at 22 years old, SKODA FABIA owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2002 SKODA FABIA 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 2002 SKODA FABIA?
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 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SKODA FABIA Reliability Trend
Newer SKODA FABIAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 SKODA FABIA
At 22 years old, the SKODA FABIA 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 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Alternatives to the 2002 SKODA FABIA
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2004) 71% pass rate (+1%) from 39,183 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2003) 73% pass rate (+3%) from 31,803 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2004) 72% pass rate (+2%) from 20,938 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2004) 71% pass rate (+1%) from 15,813 tests