SKODA OCTAVIA (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 3,326 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
73%
Total Tests (2024)
3,326
Avg Mileage
147,294 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA reliable?
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 20 years old, 73% of SKODA OCTAVIAs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 3,326 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 147,294 miles.
How does the 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA has 147,294 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 SKODA OCTAVIA?
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%.
How much does a 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA 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 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 |
Checking a specific SKODA OCTAVIA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
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 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 147,294 miles at 20 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 £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 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.
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 20 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%.
Alternatives to the 2004 SKODA OCTAVIA
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2006) 73% pass rate (same) from 56,257 tests
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (-2%) from 45,707 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2006) 80% pass rate (+7%) from 40,353 tests
- HONDA JAZZ (2006) 71% pass rate (-2%) from 35,054 tests