BMW 1 SERIES (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 331 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
331
Avg Mileage
127,703 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2004 BMW 1 SERIES reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 20 years old, 72% of BMW 1 SERIESs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 331 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 127,703 miles.
How does the 2004 BMW 1 SERIES compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 BMW 1 SERIES has 127,703 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 1 SERIES?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 99% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 72%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2004 BMW 1 SERIES 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.
BMW 1 SERIES by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 100% | 30 | 56,153 mi |
| 2020 | 99% | 68 | 34,205 mi |
| 2019 | 91% | 32,819 | 41,619 mi |
| 2018 | 92% | 27,965 | 50,440 mi |
| 2017 | 92% | 19,053 | 56,121 mi |
| 2016 | 92% | 7,706 | 60,320 mi |
| 2015 | 92% | 4,010 | 67,427 mi |
| 2014 | 90% | 5,135 | 76,509 mi |
| 2013 | 84% | 34,105 | 93,913 mi |
| 2012 | 82% | 29,741 | 97,892 mi |
| 2011 | 82% | 5,252 | 97,748 mi |
| 2010 | 80% | 4,356 | 109,865 mi |
| 2009 | 79% | 3,810 | 113,355 mi |
| 2008 | 80% | 2,841 | 117,331 mi |
| 2007 | 78% | 1,973 | 120,685 mi |
| 2006 | 77% | 1,195 | 136,390 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 1,066 | 137,675 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 331 | 127,703 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 1 SERIES?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 BMW 1 SERIES
The 2004 BMW 1 SERIES is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 331 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 127,703 miles at 20 years old, BMW 1 SERIES owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 BMW 1 SERIES 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 2004 BMW 1 SERIES?
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 72% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 1 SERIES Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 1 SERIESs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 BMW 1 SERIES
At 20 years old, the BMW 1 SERIES 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.
Alternatives to the 2004 BMW 1 SERIES
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2006) 72% pass rate (same) from 60,321 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2005) 69% pass rate (-3%) from 29,377 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2006) 71% pass rate (-1%) from 28,045 tests
- AUDI A3 (2006) 73% pass rate (+1%) from 24,088 tests