MERCEDES CL (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 250 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
86%
Total Tests (2024)
250
Avg Mileage
105,101 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2003 MERCEDES CL reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 21 years old, 86% of MERCEDES CLs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 250 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 105,101 miles.
How does the 2003 MERCEDES CL compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MERCEDES CL has 105,101 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 CL?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 76%. The 2003 sits between the two at 86%.
How much does a 2003 MERCEDES CL 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 CL by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 100% | 38 | 14,783 mi |
| 2014 | 91% | 246 | 61,866 mi |
| 2013 | 87% | 276 | 61,865 mi |
| 2012 | 94% | 172 | 66,464 mi |
| 2011 | 89% | 159 | 73,701 mi |
| 2010 | 85% | 150 | 77,076 mi |
| 2009 | 81% | 119 | 86,705 mi |
| 2008 | 80% | 241 | 78,575 mi |
| 2007 | 88% | 468 | 104,864 mi |
| 2006 | 89% | 79 | 94,133 mi |
| 2005 | 93% | 70 | 94,005 mi |
| 2004 | 87% | 112 | 79,723 mi |
| 2003 | 86% | 250 | 105,101 mi |
| 2002 | 82% | 330 | 94,742 mi |
| 2001 | 78% | 116 | 116,951 mi |
| 2000 | 76% | 78 | 91,007 mi |
| 1999 | 78% | 72 | 16,669 mi |
| 1998 | 79% | 113 | 101,277 mi |
| 1997 | 92% | 118 | 104,546 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES CL?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MERCEDES CL
The 2003 MERCEDES CL is a performance with a 5439cc petrol engine. 250 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 10% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 105,101 miles at 21 years old, MERCEDES CL owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 MERCEDES CL Fuel Costs
The 5439cc 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 MERCEDES CL?
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 86% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES CL Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES CLs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MERCEDES CL
At 21 years old, the MERCEDES CL 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 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Alternatives to the 2003 MERCEDES CL
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES CLK (2004) 76% pass rate (-10%) from 8,352 tests
- MERCEDES SL (2003) 86% pass rate (same) from 5,173 tests
- ASTON MARTIN DB9 (2005) 93% pass rate (+7%) from 2,229 tests
- MERCEDES ML (2005) 75% pass rate (-11%) from 2,047 tests