NISSAN X-TRAIL (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,376 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
67%
Total Tests (2024)
2,376
Avg Mileage
123,299 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,597
Is the 2003 NISSAN X-TRAIL reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 15 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the NISSAN brand average of 81%.
At 21 years old, 67% of NISSAN X-TRAILs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,376 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 123,299 miles.
How does the 2003 NISSAN X-TRAIL compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 NISSAN X-TRAIL has 123,299 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 X-TRAIL?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 66%. The 2003 sits between the two at 67%.
How much does a 2003 NISSAN X-TRAIL 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.
NISSAN X-TRAIL by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 92% | 3,841 | 26,713 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 8,808 | 33,507 mi |
| 2019 | 89% | 10,437 | 39,951 mi |
| 2018 | 88% | 15,727 | 52,740 mi |
| 2017 | 85% | 30,330 | 63,502 mi |
| 2016 | 81% | 27,461 | 72,723 mi |
| 2015 | 79% | 15,634 | 83,976 mi |
| 2014 | 76% | 7,549 | 91,334 mi |
| 2013 | 76% | 2,984 | 93,938 mi |
| 2012 | 74% | 3,267 | 103,517 mi |
| 2011 | 70% | 4,080 | 113,842 mi |
| 2010 | 70% | 2,688 | 119,826 mi |
| 2009 | 69% | 3,965 | 120,155 mi |
| 2008 | 68% | 6,014 | 128,821 mi |
| 2007 | 69% | 7,190 | 126,634 mi |
| 2006 | 67% | 8,112 | 126,293 mi |
| 2005 | 68% | 6,571 | 129,695 mi |
| 2004 | 66% | 4,061 | 127,204 mi |
| 2003 | 67% | 2,376 | 123,299 mi |
| 2002 | 67% | 789 | 118,808 mi |
| 2001 | 73% | 99 | 118,146 mi |
Checking a specific NISSAN X-TRAIL?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 NISSAN X-TRAIL
The 2003 NISSAN X-TRAIL is a large car with a 2488cc petrol engine. 2,376 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 81% of 2003 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 123,299 miles at 21 years old, NISSAN X-TRAIL owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 NISSAN X-TRAIL Fuel Costs
The 2488cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2003 NISSAN X-TRAIL?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,597 (£216/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 67% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
NISSAN X-TRAIL Reliability Trend
Newer NISSAN X-TRAILs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 NISSAN X-TRAIL
At 21 years old, the NISSAN X-TRAIL 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 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 92%.
Alternatives to the 2003 NISSAN X-TRAIL
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- RENAULT CLIO (2005) 67% pass rate (same) from 18,423 tests
- HONDA CR-V (2005) 70% pass rate (+3%) from 16,222 tests
- MERCEDES E (2005) 78% pass rate (+11%) from 8,269 tests
- FORD MONDEO (2004) 69% pass rate (+2%) from 7,419 tests