VAUXHALL FRONTERA (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 145 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
145
Avg Mileage
103,989 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2002 VAUXHALL FRONTERA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VAUXHALL brand average of 84%.
At 22 years old, 76% of VAUXHALL FRONTERAs from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 145 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 103,989 miles.
How does the 2002 VAUXHALL FRONTERA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 VAUXHALL FRONTERA has 103,989 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a VAUXHALL FRONTERA?
The most reliable year is the 1993 model with a 82% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 55%. The 2002 sits between the two at 76%.
How much does a 2002 VAUXHALL FRONTERA 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.
VAUXHALL FRONTERA by Year
Checking a specific VAUXHALL FRONTERA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 VAUXHALL FRONTERA
The 2002 VAUXHALL FRONTERA is a family car with a 2172cc diesel engine. 145 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 103,989 miles at 22 years old, VAUXHALL FRONTERA owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2002 VAUXHALL FRONTERA Fuel Costs
The 2172cc 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 2002 VAUXHALL FRONTERA?
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 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VAUXHALL FRONTERA Reliability Trend
Older VAUXHALL FRONTERAs tend to have better MOT pass rates than newer ones, with an average decline of 5 percentage points across model years.
Buying a Used 2002 VAUXHALL FRONTERA
At 22 years old, the VAUXHALL FRONTERA 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 1993 model has the highest pass rate at 82%.
Alternatives to the 2002 VAUXHALL FRONTERA
The VAUXHALL FRONTERA is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2003) 73% pass rate (-3%) from 31,803 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2004) 72% pass rate (-4%) from 20,938 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2004) 73% pass rate (-3%) from 19,211 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2003) 72% pass rate (-4%) from 13,965 tests