MAZDA BONGO (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 764 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
764
Avg Mileage
116,308 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2003 MAZDA BONGO reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 21 years old, 71% of MAZDA BONGOs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 764 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 116,308 miles.
How does the 2003 MAZDA BONGO compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MAZDA BONGO has 116,308 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 BONGO?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 78% MOT pass rate, while the 2009 model has the lowest at 63%. The 2003 sits between the two at 71%.
How much does a 2003 MAZDA BONGO 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.
MAZDA BONGO by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 76% | 99 | 98,059 mi |
| 2020 | 74% | 210 | 86,171 mi |
| 2019 | 77% | 220 | 101,242 mi |
| 2018 | 78% | 277 | 100,079 mi |
| 2017 | 75% | 478 | 110,285 mi |
| 2016 | 72% | 753 | 114,318 mi |
| 2015 | 72% | 770 | 120,943 mi |
| 2014 | 68% | 804 | 125,212 mi |
| 2013 | 65% | 706 | 138,716 mi |
| 2012 | 68% | 548 | 146,888 mi |
| 2011 | 65% | 736 | 149,648 mi |
| 2010 | 64% | 863 | 144,418 mi |
| 2009 | 63% | 796 | 146,139 mi |
| 2008 | 66% | 1,072 | 156,410 mi |
| 2007 | 63% | 1,331 | 150,625 mi |
| 2006 | 67% | 1,233 | 149,731 mi |
| 2005 | 68% | 1,384 | 139,153 mi |
| 2004 | 70% | 1,127 | 129,099 mi |
| 2003 | 71% | 764 | 116,308 mi |
| 2002 | 76% | 780 | 105,775 mi |
| 2001 | 74% | 738 | 107,775 mi |
| 2000 | 75% | 757 | 110,842 mi |
| 1999 | 73% | 610 | 116,062 mi |
| 1998 | 69% | 400 | 127,304 mi |
| 1997 | 71% | 573 | 137,918 mi |
| 1996 | 65% | 691 | 147,944 mi |
| 1995 | 64% | 504 | 157,843 mi |
Checking a specific MAZDA BONGO?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MAZDA BONGO
The 2003 MAZDA BONGO is a family car with a 2000cc petrol engine. 764 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 falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 116,308 miles at 21 years old, MAZDA BONGO owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 MAZDA BONGO Fuel Costs
The 2000cc 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 MAZDA BONGO?
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 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MAZDA BONGO Reliability Trend
The MAZDA BONGO has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 1 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MAZDA BONGO
At 21 years old, the MAZDA BONGO 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 2018 model has the highest pass rate at 78%.
Alternatives to the 2003 MAZDA BONGO
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (same) from 45,707 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2005) 71% pass rate (same) from 41,794 tests
- TOYOTA COROLLA (2005) 76% pass rate (+5%) from 19,418 tests
- RENAULT CLIO (2005) 67% pass rate (-4%) from 18,423 tests