VOLVO V50 (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,784 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
69%
Total Tests (2024)
1,784
Avg Mileage
133,972 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,597
Is the 2004 VOLVO V50 reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 13 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLVO brand average of 87%.
At 20 years old, 69% of VOLVO V50s from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,784 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 133,972 miles.
How does the 2004 VOLVO V50 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 VOLVO V50 has 133,972 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 VOLVO V50?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 75% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 69%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2004 VOLVO V50 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.
VOLVO V50 by Year
Checking a specific VOLVO V50?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 VOLVO V50
The 2004 VOLVO V50 is a premium with a 2435cc petrol engine. 1,784 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 falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 133,972 miles at 20 years old, VOLVO V50 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 VOLVO V50 Fuel Costs
The 2435cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. 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 VOLVO V50?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,597 (£216/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 69% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
VOLVO V50 Reliability Trend
The VOLVO V50 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 VOLVO V50
At 20 years old, the VOLVO V50 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.
Alternatives to the 2004 VOLVO V50
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- RENAULT CLIO (2006) 68% pass rate (-1%) from 31,061 tests
- HONDA CR-V (2006) 72% pass rate (+3%) from 17,606 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT (2006) 72% pass rate (+3%) from 10,368 tests
- MERCEDES A-CLASS (2006) 72% pass rate (+3%) from 8,389 tests