Ford Fiesta LX (2004)
2004 Ford Fiesta LX
CarHunch analysed 218 real MOT records for the 2004 Ford Fiesta LX. This breakdown of actual test outcomes — pass rates, defect profiles, mileage data — isn't published anywhere else.
This 2004 Ford Fiesta LX is a significant reliability concern: just 35.4% pass their MOT first time, less than half the UK average of 80%, and petrol versions show a 0% pass rate across 117 vehicles tested. The good news is that dangerous defects are extremely rare at 0%, so while these cars fail, they're typically failing on less critical issues.
At 102,523 miles average, these Fiestas have covered reasonable mileage for their age, yet they're accumulating 0.58 failures per vehicle on test—pointing to age-related wear rather than fundamental design flaws. If you're considering one, budget for pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic and expect ongoing maintenance costs; these cars need active care to stay roadworthy rather than being problem-free bargains.
What to check before buying a 2004 Ford Fiesta LX
Practical pre-purchase checks for this age and model.
- 📋 Check the full MOT history. Look for recurring advisories — slow-building issues like corrosion or brake wear patterns show up years before they become failures. Enter the reg below for a full AI analysis.
- 🔍 Inspect for corrosion in person. Brake pipes, sills, subframes, and chassis legs. Surface rust is normal at this age; structural rust is a serious problem that's expensive to fix and can fail an MOT.
- 🛞 Check tyres and brakes. The most common advisory items at this age. Budget for replacement if they're near the limit — factor this into your offer price.
- 📄 Run an HPI check. The MOT history won't show outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen status — an HPI check will.
Before you buy a Ford Fiesta LX
MOT history is one piece of the puzzle. These checks can reveal what CarHunch can't.
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Pass Rate by Fuel Type
| Fuel type | Vehicles | Pass rate | Avg failures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol (54%) | 117 | 0% | 0 |
| Other (43%) | 94 | 78.2% | 1.28 |
| Diesel (3%) | 7 | 52.4% | 0.86 |
2004 Ford Fiesta LX — Still on the Road
Numbers are declining — 21 vehicles still getting MOTs in 2025 (24% of peak).
Based on vehicles from this manufacture year that had at least one MOT test in each calendar year. Data from 2017–2025.
MOT History Averages
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