VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 972 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
972
Avg Mileage
174,011 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLKSWAGEN brand average of 85%.
At 20 years old, 72% of VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLEs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 972 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 174,011 miles.
How does the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE has 174,011 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 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 1994 model has the lowest at 63%. The 2004 sits between the two at 72%.
How much does a 2004 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE 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.
VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 86% | 63 | 28,714 mi |
| 2020 | 88% | 355 | 35,274 mi |
| 2019 | 88% | 1,343 | 45,103 mi |
| 2018 | 85% | 1,384 | 54,248 mi |
| 2017 | 86% | 1,742 | 72,727 mi |
| 2016 | 84% | 2,082 | 78,636 mi |
| 2015 | 80% | 1,450 | 91,012 mi |
| 2014 | 81% | 1,242 | 85,066 mi |
| 2013 | 82% | 1,414 | 92,484 mi |
| 2012 | 82% | 1,670 | 119,975 mi |
| 2011 | 81% | 1,238 | 114,341 mi |
| 2010 | 78% | 1,366 | 121,801 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 848 | 121,913 mi |
| 2008 | 74% | 1,188 | 147,628 mi |
| 2007 | 75% | 1,290 | 150,161 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 1,224 | 166,290 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 1,381 | 171,325 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 972 | 174,011 mi |
| 2003 | 70% | 1,163 | 194,795 mi |
| 2002 | 73% | 1,252 | 197,021 mi |
| 2001 | 72% | 1,144 | 194,846 mi |
| 2000 | 72% | 1,054 | 193,142 mi |
| 1999 | 69% | 1,275 | 203,966 mi |
| 1998 | 70% | 1,438 | 189,576 mi |
| 1997 | 69% | 1,361 | 174,949 mi |
| 1996 | 64% | 997 | 192,626 mi |
| 1995 | 65% | 748 | 190,097 mi |
| 1994 | 63% | 443 | 183,071 mi |
| 1993 | 67% | 168 | 159,178 mi |
| 1992 | 68% | 115 | 175,500 mi |
| 1991 | 73% | 145 | 149,049 mi |
| 1990 | 71% | 198 | 152,768 mi |
Checking a specific VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE
The 2004 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE is a performance with a 3189cc petrol engine. 972 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 174,011 miles at 20 years old, VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE Fuel Costs
The 3189cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 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 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE Reliability Trend
Newer VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 12 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE
At 20 years old, the VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE 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 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2006) 70% pass rate (-2%) from 12,591 tests
- MERCEDES E (2004) 78% pass rate (+6%) from 8,333 tests
- PORSCHE BOXSTER (2005) 86% pass rate (+14%) from 6,992 tests
- BMW X3 (2006) 78% pass rate (+6%) from 6,611 tests