CITROEN C5 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 554 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
69%
Total Tests (2024)
554
Avg Mileage
126,405 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,927
Is the 2003 CITROEN C5 reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 13 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the CITROEN brand average of 79%.
At 21 years old, 69% of CITROEN C5s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 554 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 126,405 miles.
How does the 2003 CITROEN C5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 CITROEN C5 has 126,405 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a CITROEN C5?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 64%. The 2003 sits between the two at 69%.
How much does a 2003 CITROEN C5 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.
CITROEN C5 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 92% | 2,377 | 25,060 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 10,871 | 30,371 mi |
| 2019 | 89% | 11,830 | 37,099 mi |
| 2018 | 76% | 46 | 42,159 mi |
| 2016 | 84% | 186 | 70,192 mi |
| 2015 | 83% | 320 | 88,761 mi |
| 2014 | 79% | 405 | 83,642 mi |
| 2013 | 77% | 653 | 96,254 mi |
| 2012 | 77% | 729 | 106,625 mi |
| 2011 | 75% | 1,045 | 113,766 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 2,297 | 119,800 mi |
| 2009 | 72% | 3,341 | 119,720 mi |
| 2008 | 71% | 2,251 | 122,178 mi |
| 2007 | 69% | 731 | 118,303 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 827 | 118,553 mi |
| 2005 | 69% | 596 | 119,716 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 691 | 117,451 mi |
| 2003 | 69% | 554 | 126,405 mi |
| 2002 | 66% | 426 | 125,296 mi |
| 2001 | 64% | 205 | 116,552 mi |
Checking a specific CITROEN C5?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 CITROEN C5
The 2003 CITROEN C5 is a family car with a 1997cc diesel engine. 554 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 126,405 miles at 21 years old, CITROEN C5 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2003 CITROEN C5 Fuel Costs
The 1997cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 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 2003 CITROEN C5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,927 (£161/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 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.
CITROEN C5 Reliability Trend
Newer CITROEN C5s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 CITROEN C5
At 21 years old, the CITROEN C5 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 92%.
Alternatives to the 2003 CITROEN C5
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2005) 72% pass rate (+3%) from 41,401 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2005) 69% pass rate (same) from 29,377 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (+4%) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (+3%) from 20,813 tests