MITSUBISHI COLT (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 115 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
74%
Total Tests (2024)
115
Avg Mileage
75,553 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2002 MITSUBISHI COLT reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 8 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MITSUBISHI brand average of 80%.
At 22 years old, 74% of MITSUBISHI COLTs from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 115 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 75,553 miles.
How does the 2002 MITSUBISHI COLT compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 MITSUBISHI COLT has 75,553 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a MITSUBISHI COLT?
The most reliable year is the 2013 model with a 83% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 62%. The 2002 sits between the two at 74%.
How much does a 2002 MITSUBISHI COLT 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.
MITSUBISHI COLT by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 83% | 860 | 66,024 mi |
| 2012 | 80% | 2,450 | 69,102 mi |
| 2011 | 79% | 2,684 | 76,628 mi |
| 2010 | 75% | 4,375 | 80,694 mi |
| 2009 | 72% | 6,961 | 83,817 mi |
| 2008 | 70% | 7,859 | 86,756 mi |
| 2007 | 71% | 6,387 | 90,616 mi |
| 2006 | 71% | 4,923 | 92,982 mi |
| 2005 | 69% | 3,589 | 96,004 mi |
| 2004 | 69% | 707 | 95,647 mi |
| 2003 | 62% | 73 | 83,879 mi |
| 2002 | 74% | 115 | 75,553 mi |
| 2001 | 72% | 53 | 71,977 mi |
| 2000 | 73% | 89 | 71,639 mi |
| 1999 | 65% | 141 | 70,385 mi |
| 1998 | 67% | 308 | 87,244 mi |
| 1997 | 71% | 128 | 77,861 mi |
| 1996 | 65% | 101 | 83,131 mi |
| 1995 | 67% | 30 | 83,382 mi |
| 1991 | 61% | 36 | 92,792 mi |
Checking a specific MITSUBISHI COLT?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 MITSUBISHI COLT
The 2002 MITSUBISHI COLT is a small family car with a 1597cc petrol engine. 115 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 75,553 miles at 22 years old, MITSUBISHI COLT owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2002 MITSUBISHI COLT Fuel Costs
The 1597cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2002 MITSUBISHI COLT?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 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.
MITSUBISHI COLT Reliability Trend
Newer MITSUBISHI COLTs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 6 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 MITSUBISHI COLT
At 22 years old, the MITSUBISHI COLT 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 2013 model has the highest pass rate at 83%.
Alternatives to the 2002 MITSUBISHI COLT
The MITSUBISHI COLT is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol small family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2004) 71% pass rate (-3%) from 36,444 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2004) 69% pass rate (-5%) from 29,927 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (-3%) from 29,898 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2004) 67% pass rate (-7%) from 26,290 tests