DS DS3 (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,163 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
1,163
Avg Mileage
25,541 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,500
Is the 2021 DS DS3 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 3 years old, 88% of DS DS3s from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,163 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 25,541 miles.
How does the 2021 DS DS3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 DS DS3 has 25,541 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a DS DS3?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 2015 model has the lowest at 76%. The 2021 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 2021 DS DS3 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
DS DS3 by Year
Checking a specific DS DS3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 DS DS3
The 2021 DS DS3 is a small family car with a 1500cc diesel engine. 1,163 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 84% of 2021 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 25,541 miles at 3 years old, DS DS3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2021 DS DS3 Fuel Costs
The 1500cc 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).
What does it cost to own a 2021 DS DS3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,500 (£125/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 88% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
DS DS3 Reliability Trend
Newer DS DS3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 DS DS3
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 89%.
Alternatives to the 2021 DS DS3
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (+1%) from 93,803 tests
- MERCEDES A (2019) 91% pass rate (+3%) from 89,588 tests
- FORD KUGA (2019) 91% pass rate (+3%) from 72,831 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2019) 89% pass rate (+1%) from 65,751 tests