JAGUAR S-TYPE (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,842 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
74%
Total Tests (2024)
2,842
Avg Mileage
93,539 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2003 JAGUAR S-TYPE reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 8 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the JAGUAR brand average of 88%.
At 21 years old, 74% of JAGUAR S-TYPEs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,842 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 93,539 miles.
How does the 2003 JAGUAR S-TYPE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 JAGUAR S-TYPE has 93,539 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 JAGUAR S-TYPE?
The most reliable year is the 2007 model with a 76% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2003 sits between the two at 74%.
How much does a 2003 JAGUAR S-TYPE 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.
JAGUAR S-TYPE by Year
Checking a specific JAGUAR S-TYPE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 JAGUAR S-TYPE
The 2003 JAGUAR S-TYPE is a premium with a 2496cc petrol engine. 2,842 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 beats that benchmark.
With an average of 93,539 miles at 21 years old, JAGUAR S-TYPE owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 JAGUAR S-TYPE Fuel Costs
The 2496cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. 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 JAGUAR S-TYPE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 74% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
JAGUAR S-TYPE Reliability Trend
Newer JAGUAR S-TYPEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 JAGUAR S-TYPE
At 21 years old, the JAGUAR S-TYPE 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 2007 model has the highest pass rate at 76%.
Alternatives to the 2003 JAGUAR S-TYPE
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- RENAULT CLIO (2005) 67% pass rate (-7%) from 18,423 tests
- HONDA CR-V (2005) 70% pass rate (-4%) from 16,222 tests
- MERCEDES E (2005) 78% pass rate (+4%) from 8,269 tests
- FORD MONDEO (2004) 69% pass rate (-5%) from 7,419 tests