HONDA HR-V (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 400 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
73%
Total Tests (2024)
400
Avg Mileage
98,960 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2003 HONDA HR-V reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 9 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the HONDA brand average of 84%.
At 21 years old, 73% of HONDA HR-Vs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 400 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 98,960 miles.
How does the 2003 HONDA HR-V compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 HONDA HR-V has 98,960 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 HONDA HR-V?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 96% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2003 sits between the two at 73%.
How much does a 2003 HONDA HR-V 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 HR-V by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 93% | 154 | 24,099 mi |
| 2020 | 96% | 7,496 | 25,324 mi |
| 2019 | 95% | 8,572 | 30,486 mi |
| 2018 | 93% | 10,118 | 39,252 mi |
| 2017 | 92% | 9,761 | 48,336 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 11,361 | 56,607 mi |
| 2015 | 89% | 4,628 | 65,405 mi |
| 2006 | 70% | 57 | 98,304 mi |
| 2005 | 68% | 298 | 103,130 mi |
| 2004 | 76% | 478 | 101,014 mi |
| 2003 | 73% | 400 | 98,960 mi |
| 2002 | 74% | 735 | 105,009 mi |
| 2001 | 74% | 689 | 109,071 mi |
| 2000 | 71% | 535 | 108,513 mi |
| 1999 | 73% | 538 | 103,754 mi |
Checking a specific HONDA HR-V?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 HONDA HR-V
The 2003 HONDA HR-V is a small family car with a 1590cc petrol engine. 400 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 beats that benchmark.
With an average of 98,960 miles at 21 years old, HONDA HR-V owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 HONDA HR-V Fuel Costs
The 1590cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 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 HR-V?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 73% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
HONDA HR-V Reliability Trend
Newer HONDA HR-Vs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 17 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 HONDA HR-V
At 21 years old, the HONDA HR-V 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 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 96%.
Alternatives to the 2003 HONDA HR-V
The HONDA HR-V is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol small family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (-2%) from 45,707 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2005) 71% pass rate (-2%) from 41,794 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (-2%) from 29,898 tests
- TOYOTA YARIS (2005) 73% pass rate (same) from 29,754 tests