BMW 1 (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 42 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Total Tests (2024)
42
Avg Mileage
92,618 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2008 BMW 1 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 16 years old, 79% of BMW 1s from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 42 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 92,618 miles.
How does the 2008 BMW 1 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 BMW 1 has 92,618 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
How much does a 2008 BMW 1 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.
Checking a specific BMW 1?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 BMW 1
The 2008 BMW 1 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 42 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 92,618 miles at 16 years old, BMW 1 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2008 BMW 1 Fuel Costs
The 1995cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 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 2008 BMW 1?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 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 2008 BMW 1
At 16 years old, the BMW 1 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 42 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2008 BMW 1
The BMW 1 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-5%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2010) 77% pass rate (-2%) from 87,733 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-5%) from 75,715 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (-7%) from 45,025 tests