SKODA OCTAVIA (2004)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 3,326 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,957
£163/month
MOT Pass Rate
73%
Average
Road Tax
£265
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 12-25
1598cc Petrol
Check Carefully
73% pass rate, £1957/year to run. 9 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~42 mpg
Based on 1598cc
Higher estimate due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 9 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SKODA brand average of 88%.
At 22 years old, 73% of SKODA OCTAVIAs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 3,326 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 147,294 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
147,294
Average miles
162,800
Expected for age
The average 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA has 147,294 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 1998 model has the lowest at 67%. The 2004 sits between the two at 73%.
SKODA OCTAVIA by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 85% | 324 | 57,134 mi | |
| 2020 | 91% | 13,721 | 50,514 mi | |
| 2019 | 90% | 31,534 | 61,297 mi | |
| 2018 | 90% | 27,159 | 71,077 mi | |
| 2017 | 88% | 29,246 | 84,339 mi | |
| 2016 | 87% | 32,798 | 97,549 mi | |
| 2015 | 86% | 30,840 | 108,406 mi | |
| 2014 | 85% | 28,378 | 113,965 mi | |
| 2013 | 82% | 18,141 | 120,720 mi | |
| 2012 | 78% | 18,753 | 126,303 mi | |
| 2011 | 77% | 19,826 | 120,414 mi | |
| 2010 | 76% | 16,656 | 130,679 mi | |
| 2009 | 75% | 12,158 | 132,069 mi | |
| 2008 | 73% | 10,293 | 142,833 mi | |
| 2007 | 72% | 11,009 | 144,641 mi | |
| 2006 | 71% | 9,468 | 141,864 mi | |
| 2005 | 71% | 5,516 | 143,706 mi | |
| 2004 | 73% | 3,326 | 147,294 mi | |
| 2003 | 72% | 2,670 | 151,314 mi | |
| 2002 | 73% | 1,768 | 146,396 mi | |
| 2001 | 71% | 1,135 | 143,061 mi | |
| 2000 | 68% | 383 | 146,774 mi | |
| 1999 | 74% | 208 | 138,431 mi | |
| 1998 | 67% | 106 | 104,028 mi |
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA
The 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA is a small family car with a 1598cc petrol engine. 3,326 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, 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 147,294 miles at 22 years old, SKODA OCTAVIA owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 SKODA OCTAVIA Fuel Costs
The 1598cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,957 (£163/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £265 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.
SKODA OCTAVIA Reliability Trend
Newer SKODA OCTAVIAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA
At 22 years old, the SKODA OCTAVIA 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 91%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 147k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Engine Mounts
Medium riskWorn engine mounts cause excessive vibration and movement. Replacement costs £150-£400 per mount. Check for vibration at idle with the bonnet open.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SKODA OCTAVIA(2004) | 73% | £1137 | £265 | Grp 12-25 | £1957 |
| FORD FOCUS(2006) | 73% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£130 |
| MINI MINI(2005) | 71% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£130 |
| BMW 3 SERIES(2006) | 80% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1867-£90 |
| HONDA JAZZ(2006) | 71% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722-£235 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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