SKODA FABIA (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 8,612 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
8,612
Avg Mileage
115,795 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,595
Is the 2004 SKODA FABIA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SKODA brand average of 88%.
At 20 years old, 71% of SKODA FABIAs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 8,612 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 115,795 miles.
How does the 2004 SKODA FABIA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 SKODA FABIA has 115,795 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-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 2004 sits between the two at 71%.
How much does a 2004 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 2004 SKODA FABIA
The 2004 SKODA FABIA is a small family car with a 1422cc diesel engine. 8,612 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 falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 115,795 miles at 20 years old, SKODA FABIA owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2004 SKODA FABIA Fuel Costs
The 1422cc 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 SKODA FABIA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,595 (£133/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 71% 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 2004 SKODA FABIA
At 20 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%. With 8,612 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2004 SKODA FABIA
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2006) 70% pass rate (-1%) from 81,463 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2006) 72% pass rate (+1%) from 60,321 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2006) 70% pass rate (-1%) from 44,771 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2006) 68% pass rate (-3%) from 39,766 tests