BMW 123 (2009)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,885 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
1,885
Avg Mileage
123,823 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,577
Is the 2009 BMW 123 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 15 years old, 82% of BMW 123s from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,885 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 123,823 miles.
How does the 2009 BMW 123 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2009 BMW 123 has 123,823 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 123?
The most reliable year is the 2013 model with a 84% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 80%. The 2009 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2009 BMW 123 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 123 by Year
Checking a specific BMW 123?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2009 BMW 123
The 2009 BMW 123 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 1,885 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 123,823 miles at 15 years old, BMW 123 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2009 BMW 123 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 2009 BMW 123?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,577 (£131/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 123 Reliability Trend
The BMW 123 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2009 BMW 123
At 15 years old, the BMW 123 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 2013 model has the highest pass rate at 84%.
Alternatives to the 2009 BMW 123
The BMW 123 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2011) 78% pass rate (-4%) from 97,916 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-8%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-8%) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2011) 81% pass rate (-1%) from 57,568 tests