DAIHATSU HIJET (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 152 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
152
Avg Mileage
63,062 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,490
Is the 2003 DAIHATSU HIJET reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%.
At 21 years old, 72% of DAIHATSU HIJETs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 152 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 63,062 miles.
How does the 2003 DAIHATSU HIJET compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 DAIHATSU HIJET has 63,062 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a DAIHATSU HIJET?
The most reliable year is the 1996 model with a 76% MOT pass rate, while the 1994 model has the lowest at 62%. The 2003 sits between the two at 72%.
How much does a 2003 DAIHATSU HIJET 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.
DAIHATSU HIJET by Year
Checking a specific DAIHATSU HIJET?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 DAIHATSU HIJET
The 2003 DAIHATSU HIJET is a small family car with a 1296cc diesel engine. 152 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 63,062 miles at 21 years old, DAIHATSU HIJET owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2003 DAIHATSU HIJET Fuel Costs
The 1296cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 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 DAIHATSU HIJET?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,490 (£124/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
DAIHATSU HIJET Reliability Trend
Older DAIHATSU HIJETs tend to have better MOT pass rates than newer ones, with an average decline of 4 percentage points across model years.
Buying a Used 2003 DAIHATSU HIJET
At 21 years old, the DAIHATSU HIJET 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 1996 model has the highest pass rate at 76%.
Alternatives to the 2003 DAIHATSU HIJET
The DAIHATSU HIJET is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel small family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2005) 70% pass rate (-2%) from 48,429 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2005) 68% pass rate (-4%) from 30,507 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2005) 69% pass rate (-3%) from 29,377 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2004) 72% pass rate (same) from 20,938 tests