VOLKSWAGEN LT (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 711 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
711
Avg Mileage
159,494 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN LT reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLKSWAGEN brand average of 85%.
At 20 years old, 70% of VOLKSWAGEN LTs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 711 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 159,494 miles.
How does the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN LT compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 VOLKSWAGEN LT has 159,494 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 LT?
The most reliable year is the 1991 model with a 84% MOT pass rate, while the 1993 model has the lowest at 57%. The 2004 sits between the two at 70%.
How much does a 2004 VOLKSWAGEN LT 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 LT by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 76% | 41 | 128,510 mi |
| 2010 | 80% | 40 | 173,889 mi |
| 2007 | 62% | 37 | 141,991 mi |
| 2006 | 68% | 530 | 150,866 mi |
| 2005 | 70% | 779 | 155,744 mi |
| 2004 | 70% | 711 | 159,494 mi |
| 2003 | 70% | 614 | 160,284 mi |
| 2002 | 71% | 492 | 157,964 mi |
| 2001 | 64% | 289 | 130,593 mi |
| 2000 | 60% | 283 | 143,854 mi |
| 1999 | 72% | 453 | 143,987 mi |
| 1998 | 71% | 434 | 143,947 mi |
| 1997 | 68% | 255 | 109,306 mi |
| 1996 | 64% | 173 | 125,666 mi |
| 1995 | 63% | 126 | 102,864 mi |
| 1994 | 73% | 92 | 120,022 mi |
| 1993 | 57% | 93 | 124,634 mi |
| 1992 | 75% | 92 | 113,536 mi |
| 1991 | 84% | 147 | 143,025 mi |
| 1990 | 66% | 183 | 127,188 mi |
Checking a specific VOLKSWAGEN LT?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN LT
The 2004 VOLKSWAGEN LT is a large car with a 2461cc diesel engine. 711 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 159,494 miles at 20 years old, VOLKSWAGEN LT owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 VOLKSWAGEN LT Fuel Costs
The 2461cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 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 VOLKSWAGEN LT?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 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.
VOLKSWAGEN LT Reliability Trend
The VOLKSWAGEN LT has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 0 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 VOLKSWAGEN LT
At 20 years old, the VOLKSWAGEN LT 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 1991 model has the highest pass rate at 84%.
Alternatives to the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN LT
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- HONDA CIVIC (2006) 71% pass rate (+1%) from 28,045 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2005) 78% pass rate (+8%) from 24,924 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2006) 73% pass rate (+3%) from 23,355 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2006) 78% pass rate (+8%) from 17,245 tests