MERCEDES MOTORHOME (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 66 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
66
Avg Mileage
85,052 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2003 MERCEDES MOTORHOME reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 21 years old, 82% of MERCEDES MOTORHOMEs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 66 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 85,052 miles.
How does the 2003 MERCEDES MOTORHOME compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MERCEDES MOTORHOME has 85,052 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 MOTORHOME?
The most reliable year is the 2007 model with a 95% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 69%. The 2003 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2003 MERCEDES MOTORHOME 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 MOTORHOME by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 72% | 32 | 61,005 mi |
| 2009 | 71% | 42 | 108,468 mi |
| 2008 | 81% | 91 | 87,572 mi |
| 2007 | 95% | 155 | 74,554 mi |
| 2006 | 84% | 122 | 64,969 mi |
| 2005 | 86% | 83 | 58,481 mi |
| 2004 | 85% | 104 | 70,330 mi |
| 2003 | 82% | 66 | 85,052 mi |
| 2002 | 80% | 64 | 109,471 mi |
| 2001 | 69% | 68 | 88,872 mi |
| 2000 | 76% | 51 | 87,478 mi |
| 1999 | 84% | 49 | 87,617 mi |
| 1998 | 94% | 33 | 149,288 mi |
| 1997 | 88% | 33 | 106,455 mi |
| 1995 | 21% | 34 | 103,323 mi |
| 1992 | 63% | 32 | 114,043 mi |
| 1990 | 84% | 43 | 111,634 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES MOTORHOME?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MERCEDES MOTORHOME
The 2003 MERCEDES MOTORHOME is a family car with a 2200cc diesel engine. 66 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 19% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 85,052 miles at 21 years old, MERCEDES MOTORHOME owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 MERCEDES MOTORHOME Fuel Costs
The 2200cc 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 MOTORHOME?
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 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES MOTORHOME Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES MOTORHOMEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MERCEDES MOTORHOME
At 21 years old, the MERCEDES MOTORHOME 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 2007 model has the highest pass rate at 95%. Note: with only 66 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2003 MERCEDES MOTORHOME
The MERCEDES MOTORHOME 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 (-10%) from 41,401 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (-9%) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (-10%) from 20,813 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2005) 78% pass rate (-4%) from 17,079 tests