BMW 123 (2011)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,022 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
1,022
Avg Mileage
107,184 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,577
Is the 2011 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 13 years old, 83% of BMW 123s from 2011 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,022 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 107,184 miles.
How does the 2011 BMW 123 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2011 BMW 123 has 107,184 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 96,200 miles for a 13-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 2011 sits between the two at 83%.
How much does a 2011 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 2011 BMW 123
The 2011 BMW 123 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 1,022 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2011, the average MOT pass rate is 77%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 107,184 miles at 13 years old, BMW 123 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2011 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 2011 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 83% 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 2011 BMW 123
At 13 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 2011 BMW 123
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 (2013) 85% pass rate (+2%) from 103,434 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (-4%) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-9%) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2013) 85% pass rate (+2%) from 71,326 tests