TOYOTA HI LUX (2003)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 34 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,195
£183/month
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Average
Road Tax
£395
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 25-38
2446cc Diesel
Check Carefully
79% pass rate, £2195/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~40 mpg
Based on 2446cc
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 close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the TOYOTA brand average of 84%.
At 23 years old, 79% of TOYOTA HI LUXs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 34 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 151,565 miles.
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Mileage Analysis
151,565
Average miles
170,200
Expected for age
The average 2003 TOYOTA HI LUX has 151,565 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 170,200 miles for a 23-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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About the 2003 TOYOTA HI LUX
The 2003 TOYOTA HI LUX is a large car with a 2446cc diesel engine. 34 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, 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 151,565 miles at 23 years old, TOYOTA HI LUX owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2003 TOYOTA HI LUX Fuel Costs
The 2446cc 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 TOYOTA HI LUX?
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 79% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
Buying a Used 2003 TOYOTA HI LUX
At 23 years old, the TOYOTA HI LUX 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. Note: with only 34 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2003 TOYOTA HI LUX'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 152k 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 TOYOTA HI LUX stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOYOTA HI LUX(2003) | 79% | £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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