MERCEDES 220 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 34 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
85%
Total Tests (2024)
34
Avg Mileage
121,459 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2003 MERCEDES 220 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 21 years old, 85% of MERCEDES 220s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 34 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 121,459 miles.
How does the 2003 MERCEDES 220 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MERCEDES 220 has 121,459 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 MERCEDES 220?
The most reliable year is the 2016 model with a 90% MOT pass rate, while the 2008 model has the lowest at 73%. The 2003 sits between the two at 85%.
How much does a 2003 MERCEDES 220 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.
MERCEDES 220 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 94% | 33 | 87,512 mi |
| 2018 | 84% | 50 | 80,006 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 92 | 72,900 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 138 | 77,377 mi |
| 2015 | 82% | 118 | 103,110 mi |
| 2014 | 87% | 157 | 99,695 mi |
| 2013 | 73% | 40 | 95,797 mi |
| 2012 | 83% | 83 | 100,493 mi |
| 2011 | 87% | 45 | 118,451 mi |
| 2010 | 57% | 37 | 131,918 mi |
| 2009 | 78% | 102 | 106,363 mi |
| 2008 | 73% | 101 | 131,469 mi |
| 2007 | 74% | 103 | 134,588 mi |
| 2006 | 74% | 62 | 130,027 mi |
| 2005 | 78% | 87 | 136,001 mi |
| 2003 | 85% | 34 | 121,459 mi |
| 1995 | 82% | 38 | 110,378 mi |
| 1993 | 81% | 221 | 131,768 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES 220?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MERCEDES 220
The 2003 MERCEDES 220 is a family car with a 2199cc diesel engine. 34 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 13% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 121,459 miles at 21 years old, MERCEDES 220 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 MERCEDES 220 Fuel Costs
The 2199cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2003 MERCEDES 220?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 85% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES 220 Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES 220s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MERCEDES 220
At 21 years old, the MERCEDES 220 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 90%. Note: with only 34 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2003 MERCEDES 220
The MERCEDES 220 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2005) 72% pass rate (-13%) from 41,401 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (-12%) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (-13%) from 20,813 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2005) 78% pass rate (-7%) from 17,079 tests