BMW 120 (2017)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 4,400 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
89%
Total Tests (2024)
4,400
Avg Mileage
60,816 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,922
Is the 2017 BMW 120 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 7 points above the national average of 82%.
At 7 years old, 89% of BMW 120s from 2017 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 4,400 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 60,816 miles.
How does the 2017 BMW 120 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2017 BMW 120 has 60,816 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 51,800 miles for a 7-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 2017 sits between the two at 89%.
How much does a 2017 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 2017 BMW 120
The 2017 BMW 120 is a premium with a 1998cc petrol engine. 4,400 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2017, the average MOT pass rate is 87%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 60,816 miles at 7 years old, BMW 120 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2017 BMW 120 Fuel Costs
The 1998cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2017 BMW 120?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,922 (£160/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 89% 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 2017 BMW 120
At 7 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 95%.
Alternatives to the 2017 BMW 120
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2015) 85% pass rate (-4%) from 129,337 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2019) 92% pass rate (+3%) from 89,653 tests
- FORD KUGA (2018) 90% pass rate (+1%) from 67,605 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2015) 88% pass rate (-1%) from 61,659 tests