MAZDA DEMIO (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 111 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
69%
Total Tests (2024)
111
Avg Mileage
74,111 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,027
Is the 2003 MAZDA DEMIO reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 13 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 21 years old, 69% of MAZDA DEMIOs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 111 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 74,111 miles.
How does the 2003 MAZDA DEMIO compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MAZDA DEMIO has 74,111 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a MAZDA DEMIO?
The most reliable year is the 1998 model with a 76% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 69%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2003 MAZDA DEMIO 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 DEMIO by Year
Checking a specific MAZDA DEMIO?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MAZDA DEMIO
The 2003 MAZDA DEMIO is a small family car with a 1498cc petrol engine. 111 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 74,111 miles at 21 years old, MAZDA DEMIO owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2003 MAZDA DEMIO Fuel Costs
The 1498cc 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 DEMIO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,027 (£169/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 69% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
MAZDA DEMIO Reliability Trend
The MAZDA DEMIO has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MAZDA DEMIO
At 21 years old, the MAZDA DEMIO 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.
Alternatives to the 2003 MAZDA DEMIO
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. 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 (+4%) from 29,754 tests