FORD FOCUS C-MAX (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 297 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
297
Avg Mileage
108,187 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2003 FORD FOCUS C-MAX reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the FORD brand average of 85%.
At 21 years old, 70% of FORD FOCUS C-MAXs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 297 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 108,187 miles.
How does the 2003 FORD FOCUS C-MAX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 FORD FOCUS C-MAX has 108,187 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 FOCUS C-MAX?
The most reliable year is the 2011 model with a 78% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 65%. The 2003 sits between the two at 70%.
How much does a 2003 FORD FOCUS C-MAX 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.
FORD FOCUS C-MAX by Year
Checking a specific FORD FOCUS C-MAX?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 FORD FOCUS C-MAX
The 2003 FORD FOCUS C-MAX is a family car with a 1798cc petrol engine. 297 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 108,187 miles at 21 years old, FORD FOCUS C-MAX owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 FORD FOCUS C-MAX Fuel Costs
The 1798cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 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 FOCUS C-MAX?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FORD FOCUS C-MAX Reliability Trend
Newer FORD FOCUS C-MAXs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 FORD FOCUS C-MAX
At 21 years old, the FORD FOCUS C-MAX 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 2011 model has the highest pass rate at 78%.
Alternatives to the 2003 FORD FOCUS C-MAX
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (+1%) from 45,707 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2005) 71% pass rate (+1%) from 41,794 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (+1%) from 29,898 tests
- TOYOTA YARIS (2005) 73% pass rate (+3%) from 29,754 tests