FORD EXPLORER (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 49 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
49
Avg Mileage
93,976 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2003 FORD EXPLORER reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 21 years old, 88% of FORD EXPLORERs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 49 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 93,976 miles.
How does the 2003 FORD EXPLORER compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 FORD EXPLORER has 93,976 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a FORD EXPLORER?
The most reliable year is the 2005 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 1998 model has the lowest at 66%. The 2003 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 2003 FORD EXPLORER 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.
FORD EXPLORER by Year
Checking a specific FORD EXPLORER?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 FORD EXPLORER
The 2003 FORD EXPLORER is a large car with a 3000cc petrol engine. 49 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 9% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 93,976 miles at 21 years old, FORD EXPLORER owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 FORD EXPLORER Fuel Costs
The 3000cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. 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 2003 FORD EXPLORER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 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.
FORD EXPLORER Reliability Trend
Newer FORD EXPLORERs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 FORD EXPLORER
At 21 years old, the FORD EXPLORER 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 2005 model has the highest pass rate at 89%. Note: with only 49 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2003 FORD EXPLORER
The FORD EXPLORER is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol large cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2001) 77% pass rate (-11%) from 9,406 tests
- MERCEDES E (2004) 78% pass rate (-10%) from 8,333 tests
- PORSCHE BOXSTER (2005) 86% pass rate (-2%) from 6,992 tests
- VOLVO XC90 (2005) 73% pass rate (-15%) from 6,336 tests