TOYOTA HILUX (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,911 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
73%
Total Tests (2024)
1,911
Avg Mileage
160,991 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2003 TOYOTA HILUX reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 9 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the TOYOTA brand average of 84%.
At 21 years old, 73% of TOYOTA HILUXs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,911 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 160,991 miles.
How does the 2003 TOYOTA HILUX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 TOYOTA HILUX has 160,991 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a TOYOTA HILUX?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2001 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2003 sits between the two at 73%.
How much does a 2003 TOYOTA HILUX 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.
TOYOTA HILUX by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 81% | 1,038 | 28,387 mi |
| 2020 | 88% | 8,451 | 49,813 mi |
| 2019 | 88% | 9,702 | 63,975 mi |
| 2018 | 88% | 9,977 | 74,335 mi |
| 2017 | 86% | 9,608 | 82,948 mi |
| 2016 | 82% | 8,700 | 88,215 mi |
| 2015 | 79% | 10,417 | 94,394 mi |
| 2014 | 78% | 9,424 | 101,858 mi |
| 2013 | 76% | 8,145 | 105,835 mi |
| 2012 | 75% | 7,767 | 114,215 mi |
| 2011 | 73% | 7,679 | 124,201 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 4,854 | 132,562 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 3,416 | 134,088 mi |
| 2008 | 73% | 3,953 | 141,229 mi |
| 2007 | 74% | 3,571 | 147,675 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 1,940 | 147,502 mi |
| 2005 | 74% | 2,450 | 148,182 mi |
| 2004 | 71% | 2,573 | 158,060 mi |
| 2003 | 73% | 1,911 | 160,991 mi |
| 2002 | 70% | 1,648 | 154,069 mi |
| 2001 | 70% | 1,041 | 147,426 mi |
| 2000 | 72% | 978 | 158,021 mi |
| 1999 | 72% | 1,717 | 155,634 mi |
| 1998 | 72% | 2,180 | 164,247 mi |
| 1997 | 74% | 956 | 145,316 mi |
| 1996 | 72% | 1,000 | 161,430 mi |
| 1995 | 76% | 659 | 157,911 mi |
| 1994 | 75% | 447 | 150,345 mi |
| 1993 | 81% | 291 | 146,119 mi |
| 1992 | 85% | 201 | 137,343 mi |
| 1991 | 78% | 221 | 151,472 mi |
| 1990 | 76% | 195 | 151,093 mi |
Checking a specific TOYOTA HILUX?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 TOYOTA HILUX
The 2003 TOYOTA HILUX is a large car with a 2495cc diesel engine. 1,911 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 160,991 miles at 21 years old, TOYOTA HILUX owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2003 TOYOTA HILUX Fuel Costs
The 2495cc 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 HILUX?
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 73% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
TOYOTA HILUX Reliability Trend
Newer TOYOTA HILUXs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 TOYOTA HILUX
At 21 years old, the TOYOTA HILUX 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 2018 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 2003 TOYOTA HILUX
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2005) 78% pass rate (+5%) from 24,924 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (same) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (-1%) from 20,813 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2005) 78% pass rate (+5%) from 17,079 tests