MAZDA 2 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 646 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
646
Avg Mileage
91,192 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,722
Is the 2003 MAZDA 2 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 21 years old, 75% of MAZDA 2s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 646 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 91,192 miles.
How does the 2003 MAZDA 2 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MAZDA 2 has 91,192 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 MAZDA 2?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2008 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2003 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2003 MAZDA 2 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.
MAZDA 2 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 97% | 30 | 25,674 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 12,113 | 27,997 mi |
| 2018 | 91% | 12,473 | 35,410 mi |
| 2017 | 90% | 11,574 | 42,686 mi |
| 2016 | 87% | 15,776 | 51,000 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 15,877 | 57,096 mi |
| 2014 | 79% | 14,202 | 60,500 mi |
| 2013 | 77% | 14,893 | 67,601 mi |
| 2012 | 76% | 15,653 | 71,124 mi |
| 2011 | 74% | 18,883 | 77,682 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 22,897 | 86,346 mi |
| 2009 | 71% | 22,733 | 91,854 mi |
| 2008 | 70% | 14,817 | 97,282 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 4,816 | 90,403 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 2,297 | 83,579 mi |
| 2005 | 71% | 1,957 | 86,126 mi |
| 2004 | 71% | 1,546 | 89,679 mi |
| 2003 | 75% | 646 | 91,192 mi |
Checking a specific MAZDA 2?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MAZDA 2
The 2003 MAZDA 2 is a small family car with a 1250cc petrol engine. 646 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 91,192 miles at 21 years old, MAZDA 2 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 MAZDA 2 Fuel Costs
The 1250cc 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 MAZDA 2?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,722 (£144/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MAZDA 2 Reliability Trend
Newer MAZDA 2s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 12 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MAZDA 2
At 21 years old, the MAZDA 2 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 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 92%.
Alternatives to the 2003 MAZDA 2
The MAZDA 2 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 (-4%) from 45,707 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2005) 71% pass rate (-4%) from 41,794 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (-4%) from 29,898 tests
- TOYOTA YARIS (2005) 73% pass rate (-2%) from 29,754 tests