VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG (2004)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 1,176 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,535
£211/month
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Average
Road Tax
£735
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 35-50
5000cc Diesel
Check Carefully
79% pass rate, £2535/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~40 mpg
Based on 5000cc
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 close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLKSWAGEN brand average of 85%.
At 22 years old, 79% of VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREGs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 1,176 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 138,196 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
138,196
Average miles
162,800
Expected for age
The average 2004 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG has 138,196 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 93% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 76%. The 2004 sits between the two at 79%.
VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 93% | 745 | 35,077 mi | |
| 2020 | 93% | 1,542 | 43,671 mi | |
| 2019 | 91% | 6,746 | 49,179 mi | |
| 2018 | 90% | 3,613 | 56,095 mi | |
| 2017 | 85% | 7,454 | 65,245 mi | |
| 2016 | 86% | 8,176 | 75,288 mi | |
| 2015 | 85% | 9,905 | 84,367 mi | |
| 2014 | 88% | 7,329 | 94,102 mi | |
| 2013 | 86% | 5,596 | 104,529 mi | |
| 2012 | 86% | 4,035 | 113,342 mi | |
| 2011 | 84% | 3,701 | 122,498 mi | |
| 2010 | 81% | 1,668 | 128,292 mi | |
| 2009 | 80% | 2,577 | 126,791 mi | |
| 2008 | 78% | 3,337 | 137,817 mi | |
| 2007 | 79% | 4,677 | 142,943 mi | |
| 2006 | 78% | 3,571 | 146,020 mi | |
| 2005 | 76% | 2,324 | 147,345 mi | |
| 2004 | 79% | 1,176 | 138,196 mi | |
| 2003 | 79% | 317 | 130,286 mi |
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About the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG
The 2004 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG is a performance with a 5000cc diesel engine. 1,176 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 138,196 miles at 22 years old, VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG Fuel Costs
The 5000cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. 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 TOUAREG?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,535 (£211/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £735 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 79% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG Reliability Trend
Newer VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREGs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG
At 22 years old, the VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG 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 93%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2004 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Watch outDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Dual Mass Flywheel
Watch outLarger diesel engines put extra strain on the dual mass flywheel. Listen for rattling at idle. Replacement with clutch is £800-£1,500.
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 138k 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.
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