BMW 135 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 312 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
89%
Total Tests (2024)
312
Avg Mileage
81,073 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2012 BMW 135 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 7 points above the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 89% of BMW 135s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 312 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 81,073 miles.
How does the 2012 BMW 135 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 BMW 135 has 81,073 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 135?
The most reliable year is the 2016 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 2010 model has the lowest at 86%. The 2012 sits between the two at 89%.
How much does a 2012 BMW 135 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 135 by Year
Checking a specific BMW 135?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 BMW 135
The 2012 BMW 135 is a premium performance with a 2979cc petrol engine. 312 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 22% of all 2012 cars for reliability.
With an average of 81,073 miles at 12 years old, BMW 135 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 BMW 135 Fuel Costs
The 2979cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 BMW 135?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 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 135 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 135s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 BMW 135
At 12 years old, the BMW 135 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 2016 model has the highest pass rate at 97%.
Alternatives to the 2012 BMW 135
The BMW 135 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premium performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2014) 87% pass rate (-2%) from 63,059 tests
- VAUXHALL INSIGNIA (2011) 77% pass rate (-12%) from 42,781 tests
- BMW 1 SERIES (2013) 84% pass rate (-5%) from 34,105 tests
- AUDI TT (2011) 85% pass rate (-4%) from 14,831 tests