TOYOTA MR2 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,505 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
77%
Total Tests (2024)
2,505
Avg Mileage
94,368 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2003 TOYOTA MR2 reliable?
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 21 years old, 77% of TOYOTA MR2s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,505 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 94,368 miles.
How does the 2003 TOYOTA MR2 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 TOYOTA MR2 has 94,368 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 MR2?
The most reliable year is the 2008 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 1992 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2003 sits between the two at 77%.
How much does a 2003 TOYOTA MR2 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 MR2 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 93% | 61 | 89,184 mi |
| 2007 | 77% | 123 | 109,094 mi |
| 2006 | 79% | 1,274 | 73,036 mi |
| 2005 | 77% | 1,482 | 83,599 mi |
| 2004 | 77% | 2,267 | 87,135 mi |
| 2003 | 77% | 2,505 | 94,368 mi |
| 2002 | 75% | 2,029 | 92,036 mi |
| 2001 | 76% | 1,597 | 94,735 mi |
| 2000 | 72% | 1,896 | 96,510 mi |
| 1999 | 76% | 863 | 106,803 mi |
| 1998 | 76% | 1,374 | 108,993 mi |
| 1997 | 72% | 903 | 106,809 mi |
| 1996 | 73% | 613 | 107,294 mi |
| 1995 | 73% | 521 | 115,810 mi |
| 1994 | 73% | 535 | 100,166 mi |
| 1993 | 72% | 885 | 112,683 mi |
| 1992 | 70% | 840 | 114,466 mi |
| 1991 | 74% | 711 | 115,453 mi |
| 1990 | 79% | 713 | 115,872 mi |
Checking a specific TOYOTA MR2?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 TOYOTA MR2
The 2003 TOYOTA MR2 is a family car with a 1794cc petrol engine. 2,505 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 94,368 miles at 21 years old, TOYOTA MR2 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 TOYOTA MR2 Fuel Costs
The 1794cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 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 TOYOTA MR2?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 77% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
TOYOTA MR2 Reliability Trend
Newer TOYOTA MR2s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 TOYOTA MR2
At 21 years old, the TOYOTA MR2 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 93%.
Alternatives to the 2003 TOYOTA MR2
The TOYOTA MR2 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (-6%) from 45,707 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2005) 71% pass rate (-6%) from 41,794 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (-6%) from 29,898 tests
- TOYOTA YARIS (2005) 73% pass rate (-4%) from 29,754 tests