MERCEDES V (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 257 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
74%
Total Tests (2024)
257
Avg Mileage
159,077 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2002 MERCEDES V reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 8 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 22 years old, 74% of MERCEDES Vs from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 257 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 159,077 miles.
How does the 2002 MERCEDES V compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 MERCEDES V has 159,077 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES V?
The most reliable year is the 2024 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 52%. The 2002 sits between the two at 74%.
How much does a 2002 MERCEDES V 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.
MERCEDES V by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 97% | 74 | 12,396 mi |
| 2023 | 96% | 188 | 35,586 mi |
| 2022 | 93% | 107 | 37,213 mi |
| 2021 | 89% | 398 | 29,456 mi |
| 2020 | 88% | 599 | 54,337 mi |
| 2019 | 91% | 5,899 | 88,757 mi |
| 2018 | 87% | 5,799 | 96,207 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 5,197 | 117,261 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 3,460 | 126,363 mi |
| 2015 | 87% | 2,251 | 144,371 mi |
| 2010 | 83% | 47 | 64,603 mi |
| 2008 | 73% | 41 | 80,371 mi |
| 2007 | 82% | 44 | 64,512 mi |
| 2003 | 66% | 133 | 126,103 mi |
| 2002 | 74% | 257 | 159,077 mi |
| 2001 | 72% | 202 | 128,393 mi |
| 2000 | 61% | 141 | 86,965 mi |
| 1999 | 71% | 176 | 116,167 mi |
| 1998 | 64% | 140 | 97,675 mi |
| 1997 | 52% | 56 | 100,667 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES V?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 MERCEDES V
The 2002 MERCEDES V is a family car with a 2151cc diesel engine. 257 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 159,077 miles at 22 years old, MERCEDES V owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2002 MERCEDES V Fuel Costs
The 2151cc 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 2002 MERCEDES V?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 74% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES V Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES Vs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 22 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 MERCEDES V
At 22 years old, the MERCEDES V 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 2024 model has the highest pass rate at 97%.
Alternatives to the 2002 MERCEDES V
The MERCEDES V is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2003) 73% pass rate (-1%) from 31,803 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2004) 72% pass rate (-2%) from 20,938 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2004) 73% pass rate (-1%) from 19,211 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2003) 72% pass rate (-2%) from 13,965 tests