MERCEDES VITO (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 885 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
69%
Total Tests (2024)
885
Avg Mileage
126,821 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,250
Is the 2003 MERCEDES VITO reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 13 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 21 years old, 69% of MERCEDES VITOs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 885 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 126,821 miles.
How does the 2003 MERCEDES VITO compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MERCEDES VITO has 126,821 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES VITO?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 66%. The 2003 sits between the two at 69%.
How much does a 2003 MERCEDES VITO 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 VITO by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 100% | 30 | 8,898 mi |
| 2023 | 90% | 138 | 34,230 mi |
| 2022 | 91% | 501 | 59,717 mi |
| 2021 | 88% | 4,675 | 62,567 mi |
| 2020 | 85% | 5,461 | 69,552 mi |
| 2019 | 84% | 15,564 | 94,618 mi |
| 2018 | 85% | 11,705 | 105,200 mi |
| 2017 | 83% | 16,514 | 128,006 mi |
| 2016 | 81% | 12,065 | 130,835 mi |
| 2015 | 80% | 9,882 | 140,680 mi |
| 2014 | 79% | 9,119 | 154,008 mi |
| 2013 | 78% | 9,645 | 167,479 mi |
| 2012 | 77% | 8,730 | 168,448 mi |
| 2011 | 76% | 6,819 | 168,028 mi |
| 2010 | 76% | 8,085 | 177,934 mi |
| 2009 | 75% | 7,897 | 177,659 mi |
| 2008 | 74% | 8,480 | 172,432 mi |
| 2007 | 74% | 8,446 | 172,589 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 7,080 | 171,206 mi |
| 2005 | 69% | 3,857 | 154,561 mi |
| 2004 | 68% | 1,698 | 143,135 mi |
| 2003 | 69% | 885 | 126,821 mi |
| 2002 | 67% | 740 | 136,829 mi |
| 2001 | 67% | 452 | 123,331 mi |
| 2000 | 70% | 253 | 116,943 mi |
| 1999 | 67% | 401 | 118,559 mi |
| 1998 | 66% | 494 | 110,818 mi |
| 1997 | 66% | 203 | 105,658 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES VITO?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MERCEDES VITO
The 2003 MERCEDES VITO is a family car with a 2151cc diesel engine. 885 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 126,821 miles at 21 years old, MERCEDES VITO owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2003 MERCEDES VITO 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 2003 MERCEDES VITO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,250 (£188/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 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.
MERCEDES VITO Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES VITOs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MERCEDES VITO
At 21 years old, the MERCEDES VITO 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 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Alternatives to the 2003 MERCEDES VITO
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2005) 72% pass rate (+3%) from 41,401 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (+4%) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (+3%) from 20,813 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2005) 78% pass rate (+9%) from 17,079 tests