LEXUS IS300 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 293 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
80%
Total Tests (2024)
293
Avg Mileage
114,003 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2003 LEXUS IS300 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the LEXUS brand average of 87%.
At 21 years old, 80% of LEXUS IS300s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 293 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 114,003 miles.
How does the 2003 LEXUS IS300 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 LEXUS IS300 has 114,003 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 LEXUS IS300?
The most reliable year is the 2016 model with a 98% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 73%. The 2003 sits between the two at 80%.
How much does a 2003 LEXUS IS300 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.
LEXUS IS300 by Year
Checking a specific LEXUS IS300?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 LEXUS IS300
The 2003 LEXUS IS300 is a premium performance with a 2997cc petrol engine. 293 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 22% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 114,003 miles at 21 years old, LEXUS IS300 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 LEXUS IS300 Fuel Costs
The 2997cc 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 LEXUS IS300?
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 80% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
LEXUS IS300 Reliability Trend
Newer LEXUS IS300s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 LEXUS IS300
At 21 years old, the LEXUS IS300 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 2016 model has the highest pass rate at 98%.
Alternatives to the 2003 LEXUS IS300
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2001) 77% pass rate (-3%) from 9,406 tests
- MERCEDES E (2004) 78% pass rate (-2%) from 8,333 tests
- PORSCHE BOXSTER (2005) 86% pass rate (+6%) from 6,992 tests
- VOLVO XC90 (2005) 73% pass rate (-7%) from 6,336 tests