BMW 118 (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 581 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
581
Avg Mileage
148,682 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2004 BMW 118 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 20 years old, 70% of BMW 118s from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 581 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 148,682 miles.
How does the 2004 BMW 118 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 BMW 118 has 148,682 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 118?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 70%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2004 BMW 118 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 118 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 94% | 33 | 13,490 mi |
| 2022 | 97% | 1,535 | 20,147 mi |
| 2021 | 93% | 27,185 | 25,932 mi |
| 2020 | 93% | 38,549 | 32,639 mi |
| 2019 | 91% | 19,885 | 38,849 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 20,178 | 47,347 mi |
| 2017 | 89% | 26,900 | 56,377 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 25,974 | 64,731 mi |
| 2015 | 88% | 21,089 | 73,906 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 9,053 | 91,808 mi |
| 2013 | 84% | 11,748 | 91,745 mi |
| 2012 | 81% | 12,666 | 102,109 mi |
| 2011 | 80% | 19,268 | 108,308 mi |
| 2010 | 80% | 21,005 | 113,821 mi |
| 2009 | 78% | 15,547 | 118,268 mi |
| 2008 | 78% | 11,516 | 122,044 mi |
| 2007 | 77% | 6,740 | 124,540 mi |
| 2006 | 74% | 5,578 | 137,684 mi |
| 2005 | 74% | 3,433 | 137,158 mi |
| 2004 | 70% | 581 | 148,682 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 118?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 BMW 118
The 2004 BMW 118 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 581 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 148,682 miles at 20 years old, BMW 118 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 BMW 118 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 118?
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 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 118 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 118s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 BMW 118
At 20 years old, the BMW 118 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 118
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2006) 72% pass rate (+2%) from 60,321 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2005) 69% pass rate (-1%) from 29,377 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2006) 71% pass rate (+1%) from 28,045 tests
- AUDI A3 (2006) 73% pass rate (+3%) from 24,088 tests