NISSAN INTERSTAR (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 30 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
77%
Total Tests (2024)
30
Avg Mileage
123,874 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2003 NISSAN INTERSTAR reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the NISSAN brand average of 81%.
At 21 years old, 77% of NISSAN INTERSTARs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 30 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 123,874 miles.
How does the 2003 NISSAN INTERSTAR compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 NISSAN INTERSTAR has 123,874 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 NISSAN INTERSTAR?
The most reliable year is the 2006 model with a 69% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 59%. The 2003 sits between the two at 77%.
How much does a 2003 NISSAN INTERSTAR 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.
NISSAN INTERSTAR by Year
Checking a specific NISSAN INTERSTAR?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 NISSAN INTERSTAR
The 2003 NISSAN INTERSTAR is a family car with a 2188cc diesel engine. 30 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 123,874 miles at 21 years old, NISSAN INTERSTAR owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 NISSAN INTERSTAR Fuel Costs
The 2188cc 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 NISSAN INTERSTAR?
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 77% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
NISSAN INTERSTAR Reliability Trend
Newer NISSAN INTERSTARs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 NISSAN INTERSTAR
At 21 years old, the NISSAN INTERSTAR 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 2006 model has the highest pass rate at 69%. Note: with only 30 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2003 NISSAN INTERSTAR
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2005) 72% pass rate (-5%) from 41,401 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (-4%) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (-5%) from 20,813 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2005) 78% pass rate (+1%) from 17,079 tests