HONDA ACCORD (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,962 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
2,962
Avg Mileage
129,469 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2003 HONDA ACCORD reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the HONDA brand average of 84%.
At 21 years old, 72% of HONDA ACCORDs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,962 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 129,469 miles.
How does the 2003 HONDA ACCORD compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 HONDA ACCORD has 129,469 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 HONDA ACCORD?
The most reliable year is the 2015 model with a 89% MOT pass rate, while the 1993 model has the lowest at 67%. The 2003 sits between the two at 72%.
How much does a 2003 HONDA ACCORD 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.
HONDA ACCORD by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 91% | 33 | 22,983 mi |
| 2019 | 88% | 52 | 67,854 mi |
| 2018 | 94% | 31 | 73,072 mi |
| 2017 | 94% | 35 | 86,553 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 43 | 97,345 mi |
| 2015 | 89% | 271 | 81,606 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 749 | 87,396 mi |
| 2013 | 81% | 907 | 97,568 mi |
| 2012 | 81% | 2,112 | 113,227 mi |
| 2011 | 82% | 2,295 | 119,584 mi |
| 2010 | 81% | 2,197 | 125,954 mi |
| 2009 | 78% | 5,596 | 129,840 mi |
| 2008 | 77% | 5,176 | 132,715 mi |
| 2007 | 74% | 5,915 | 136,128 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 5,204 | 138,856 mi |
| 2005 | 74% | 5,384 | 133,682 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 4,569 | 134,145 mi |
| 2003 | 72% | 2,962 | 129,469 mi |
| 2002 | 68% | 1,035 | 104,275 mi |
| 2001 | 69% | 1,077 | 103,074 mi |
| 2000 | 67% | 1,358 | 103,738 mi |
| 1999 | 71% | 1,533 | 104,025 mi |
| 1998 | 72% | 615 | 103,030 mi |
| 1997 | 68% | 258 | 91,465 mi |
| 1996 | 67% | 178 | 111,129 mi |
| 1995 | 82% | 122 | 116,256 mi |
| 1994 | 72% | 87 | 102,804 mi |
| 1993 | 67% | 73 | 102,106 mi |
| 1992 | 80% | 81 | 107,686 mi |
| 1991 | 74% | 86 | 103,994 mi |
| 1990 | 80% | 60 | 94,120 mi |
Checking a specific HONDA ACCORD?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 HONDA ACCORD
The 2003 HONDA ACCORD is a family car with a 1850cc petrol engine. 2,962 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight 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 129,469 miles at 21 years old, HONDA ACCORD owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2003 HONDA ACCORD Fuel Costs
The 1850cc 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 HONDA ACCORD?
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 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
HONDA ACCORD Reliability Trend
Newer HONDA ACCORDs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 HONDA ACCORD
At 21 years old, the HONDA ACCORD 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 2015 model has the highest pass rate at 89%.
Alternatives to the 2003 HONDA ACCORD
The HONDA ACCORD is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol family cars from this era. 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
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2004) 67% pass rate (-5%) from 26,290 tests