BMW 116 (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,886 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
92%
Total Tests (2024)
2,886
Avg Mileage
35,245 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,350
Is the 2021 BMW 116 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 10 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 3 years old, 92% of BMW 116s from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,886 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 35,245 miles.
How does the 2021 BMW 116 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 BMW 116 has 35,245 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
Best year to buy a BMW 116?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 75%. The 2021 sits between the two at 92%.
How much does a 2021 BMW 116 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 116 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 94% | 66 | 28,603 mi |
| 2021 | 92% | 2,886 | 35,245 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 5,141 | 44,251 mi |
| 2019 | 88% | 2,802 | 50,343 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 4,387 | 58,950 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 16,193 | 68,625 mi |
| 2016 | 86% | 22,967 | 78,552 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 28,417 | 82,890 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 39,076 | 86,633 mi |
| 2013 | 84% | 22,205 | 92,870 mi |
| 2012 | 81% | 14,552 | 98,817 mi |
| 2011 | 80% | 12,733 | 102,932 mi |
| 2010 | 79% | 11,573 | 107,394 mi |
| 2009 | 78% | 10,634 | 103,948 mi |
| 2008 | 78% | 4,773 | 98,095 mi |
| 2007 | 77% | 5,414 | 108,373 mi |
| 2006 | 77% | 5,542 | 111,975 mi |
| 2005 | 75% | 2,666 | 110,359 mi |
| 2004 | 76% | 896 | 110,096 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 116?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 BMW 116
The 2021 BMW 116 is a premium with a 1496cc diesel engine. 2,886 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2021, the average MOT pass rate is 92%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 35,245 miles at 3 years old, BMW 116 owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2021 BMW 116 Fuel Costs
The 1496cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2021 BMW 116?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,350 (£113/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 92% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
BMW 116 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 116s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 BMW 116
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet. If you're flexible on year, the 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Alternatives to the 2021 BMW 116
The BMW 116 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (-3%) from 93,803 tests
- MERCEDES A (2019) 91% pass rate (-1%) from 89,588 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2019) 89% pass rate (-3%) from 65,751 tests
- KIA SPORTAGE (2019) 89% pass rate (-3%) from 58,319 tests