BMW 118 (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 11,516 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
78%
Total Tests (2024)
11,516
Avg Mileage
122,044 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2008 BMW 118 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, 78% of BMW 118s from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 11,516 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 122,044 miles.
How does the 2008 BMW 118 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 BMW 118 has 122,044 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 118?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2008 sits between the two at 78%.
How much does a 2008 BMW 118 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 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 2008 BMW 118
The 2008 BMW 118 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 11,516 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars 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 122,044 miles at 16 years old, BMW 118 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 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 2008 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 78% 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 2008 BMW 118
At 16 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 97%. With 11,516 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2008 BMW 118
The BMW 118 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 (-4%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2010) 77% pass rate (-1%) from 87,733 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-4%) from 75,715 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (-6%) from 45,025 tests