TOYOTA AVENSIS (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 3,437 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
3,437
Avg Mileage
116,046 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2003 TOYOTA AVENSIS reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the TOYOTA brand average of 84%.
At 21 years old, 75% of TOYOTA AVENSISs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 3,437 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 116,046 miles.
How does the 2003 TOYOTA AVENSIS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 TOYOTA AVENSIS has 116,046 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 TOYOTA AVENSIS?
The most reliable year is the 2017 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 1999 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2003 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2003 TOYOTA AVENSIS 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.
TOYOTA AVENSIS by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 88% | 1,798 | 95,222 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 4,078 | 86,161 mi |
| 2016 | 87% | 5,836 | 97,189 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 5,426 | 117,294 mi |
| 2014 | 83% | 5,229 | 133,017 mi |
| 2013 | 82% | 5,353 | 135,382 mi |
| 2012 | 81% | 8,379 | 130,725 mi |
| 2011 | 79% | 7,416 | 127,805 mi |
| 2010 | 79% | 9,581 | 130,166 mi |
| 2009 | 77% | 9,074 | 129,424 mi |
| 2008 | 75% | 9,083 | 128,873 mi |
| 2007 | 75% | 9,118 | 134,277 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 8,473 | 130,077 mi |
| 2005 | 74% | 6,330 | 124,984 mi |
| 2004 | 76% | 4,759 | 117,887 mi |
| 2003 | 75% | 3,437 | 116,046 mi |
| 2002 | 71% | 1,627 | 112,717 mi |
| 2001 | 76% | 1,121 | 111,507 mi |
| 2000 | 73% | 744 | 112,081 mi |
| 1999 | 70% | 1,232 | 122,912 mi |
| 1998 | 73% | 918 | 122,408 mi |
Checking a specific TOYOTA AVENSIS?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 TOYOTA AVENSIS
The 2003 TOYOTA AVENSIS is a family car with a 1995cc diesel engine. 3,437 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight 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 116,046 miles at 21 years old, TOYOTA AVENSIS owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 TOYOTA AVENSIS Fuel Costs
The 1995cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 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 TOYOTA AVENSIS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
TOYOTA AVENSIS Reliability Trend
Newer TOYOTA AVENSISs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 TOYOTA AVENSIS
At 21 years old, the TOYOTA AVENSIS 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 2017 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 2003 TOYOTA AVENSIS
The TOYOTA AVENSIS is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2005) 72% pass rate (-3%) from 41,401 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2005) 69% pass rate (-6%) from 29,377 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (-2%) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (-3%) from 20,813 tests