BMW 1 SERIES (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,841 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
80%
Total Tests (2024)
2,841
Avg Mileage
117,331 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,577
Is the 2008 BMW 1 SERIES reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 16 years old, 80% of BMW 1 SERIESs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,841 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 117,331 miles.
How does the 2008 BMW 1 SERIES compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 BMW 1 SERIES has 117,331 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-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%. The 2008 sits between the two at 80%.
How much does a 2008 BMW 1 SERIES 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.
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 2008 BMW 1 SERIES
The 2008 BMW 1 SERIES is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 2,841 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight 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 117,331 miles at 16 years old, BMW 1 SERIES owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 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 2008 BMW 1 SERIES?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,577 (£131/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 80% 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 2008 BMW 1 SERIES
At 16 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 99%.
Alternatives to the 2008 BMW 1 SERIES
The BMW 1 SERIES 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 (-6%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2010) 77% pass rate (-3%) from 87,733 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-6%) from 75,715 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (-8%) from 45,025 tests