BMW 120 (2010)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 7,884 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Total Tests (2024)
7,884
Avg Mileage
109,003 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2010 BMW 120 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 14 years old, 79% of BMW 120s from 2010 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 7,884 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 109,003 miles.
How does the 2010 BMW 120 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2010 BMW 120 has 109,003 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 103,600 miles for a 14-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 120?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 95% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 76%. The 2010 sits between the two at 79%.
How much does a 2010 BMW 120 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 120 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 95% | 483 | 28,181 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 1,544 | 34,573 mi |
| 2019 | 91% | 1,402 | 40,327 mi |
| 2018 | 88% | 2,782 | 51,035 mi |
| 2017 | 89% | 4,400 | 60,816 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 6,285 | 70,978 mi |
| 2015 | 87% | 7,182 | 80,308 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 6,016 | 94,560 mi |
| 2013 | 84% | 4,844 | 94,843 mi |
| 2012 | 81% | 5,511 | 100,642 mi |
| 2011 | 81% | 7,312 | 105,780 mi |
| 2010 | 79% | 7,884 | 109,003 mi |
| 2009 | 80% | 7,071 | 113,731 mi |
| 2008 | 78% | 8,671 | 117,236 mi |
| 2007 | 78% | 4,860 | 126,038 mi |
| 2006 | 76% | 4,412 | 139,019 mi |
| 2005 | 77% | 4,504 | 139,808 mi |
| 2004 | 77% | 1,437 | 127,612 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 120?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2010 BMW 120
The 2010 BMW 120 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 7,884 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2010, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 109,003 miles at 14 years old, BMW 120 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2010 BMW 120 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 2010 BMW 120?
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 79% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 120 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 120s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2010 BMW 120
At 14 years old, the BMW 120 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 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 95%. With 7,884 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2010 BMW 120
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2012) 80% pass rate (+1%) from 98,183 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-5%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-5%) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2012) 82% pass rate (+3%) from 68,955 tests