VAUXHALL VECTRA (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,288 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
1,288
Avg Mileage
109,896 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2003 VAUXHALL VECTRA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the VAUXHALL brand average of 84%.
At 21 years old, 70% of VAUXHALL VECTRAs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,288 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 109,896 miles.
How does the 2003 VAUXHALL VECTRA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 VAUXHALL VECTRA has 109,896 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 VAUXHALL VECTRA?
The most reliable year is the 2000 model with a 75% MOT pass rate, while the 1996 model has the lowest at 67%. The 2003 sits between the two at 70%.
How much does a 2003 VAUXHALL VECTRA 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.
VAUXHALL VECTRA by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | 71% | 3,408 | 117,617 mi |
| 2008 | 70% | 18,793 | 117,989 mi |
| 2007 | 71% | 16,124 | 121,476 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 8,767 | 121,234 mi |
| 2005 | 69% | 4,303 | 121,677 mi |
| 2004 | 68% | 2,420 | 119,713 mi |
| 2003 | 70% | 1,288 | 109,896 mi |
| 2002 | 74% | 1,056 | 110,589 mi |
| 2001 | 73% | 1,098 | 100,719 mi |
| 2000 | 75% | 656 | 101,398 mi |
| 1999 | 73% | 790 | 110,725 mi |
| 1998 | 70% | 570 | 96,607 mi |
| 1997 | 72% | 327 | 108,173 mi |
| 1996 | 67% | 78 | 86,421 mi |
Checking a specific VAUXHALL VECTRA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 VAUXHALL VECTRA
The 2003 VAUXHALL VECTRA is a family car with a 2172cc diesel engine. 1,288 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 falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 109,896 miles at 21 years old, VAUXHALL VECTRA owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 VAUXHALL VECTRA 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 2003 VAUXHALL VECTRA?
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 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VAUXHALL VECTRA Reliability Trend
The VAUXHALL VECTRA has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 VAUXHALL VECTRA
At 21 years old, the VAUXHALL VECTRA 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 2000 model has the highest pass rate at 75%.
Alternatives to the 2003 VAUXHALL VECTRA
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2005) 72% pass rate (+2%) from 41,401 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2005) 73% pass rate (+3%) from 24,685 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2005) 72% pass rate (+2%) from 20,813 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2005) 78% pass rate (+8%) from 17,079 tests