NISSAN PICKUP (2003)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 410 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,195
£183/month
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Average
Road Tax
£395
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 25-38
2494cc Diesel
Check Carefully
71% pass rate, £2195/year to run. 11 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~40 mpg
Based on 2494cc
Higher estimate due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the NISSAN brand average of 81%.
At 23 years old, 71% of NISSAN PICKUPs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 410 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 121,994 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
121,994
Average miles
170,200
Expected for age
The average 2003 NISSAN PICKUP has 121,994 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 170,200 miles for a 23-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2008 model with a 79% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 62%. The 2003 sits between the two at 71%.
NISSAN PICKUP by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2003 NISSAN PICKUP
The 2003 NISSAN PICKUP is a large car with a 2494cc diesel engine. 410 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, 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 121,994 miles at 23 years old, NISSAN PICKUP owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 NISSAN PICKUP Fuel Costs
The 2494cc 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 PICKUP?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,195 (£183/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £395 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
NISSAN PICKUP Reliability Trend
The NISSAN PICKUP has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 NISSAN PICKUP
At 23 years old, the NISSAN PICKUP 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 2008 model has the highest pass rate at 79%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2003 NISSAN PICKUP's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Watch outDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Dual Mass Flywheel
Watch outLarger diesel engines put extra strain on the dual mass flywheel. Listen for rattling at idle. Replacement with clutch is £800-£1,500.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 122k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Engine Mounts
Medium riskWorn engine mounts cause excessive vibration and movement. Replacement costs £150-£400 per mount. Check for vibration at idle with the bonnet open.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2003 NISSAN PICKUP stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NISSAN PICKUP(2003) | 71% | £1245 | £395 | Grp 25-38 | £2195 |
| BMW 3 SERIES(2005) | 78% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2050-£145 |
| HONDA CIVIC(2005) | 73% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £2050-£145 |
| VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER(2005) | 72% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £2050-£145 |
| LAND ROVER DISCOVERY(2005) | 78% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2050-£145 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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