BMW 216D SE (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 61 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
92%
Total Tests (2024)
61
Avg Mileage
45,311 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,350
Is the 2021 BMW 216D SE reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 10 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 3 years old, 92% of BMW 216D SEs from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 61 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 45,311 miles.
How does the 2021 BMW 216D SE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 BMW 216D SE has 45,311 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
Best year to buy a BMW 216D SE?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2018 model has the lowest at 78%. The 2021 sits between the two at 92%.
How much does a 2021 BMW 216D SE 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 216D SE by Year
Checking a specific BMW 216D SE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 BMW 216D SE
The 2021 BMW 216D SE is a premium with a 1496cc diesel engine. 61 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2021, the average MOT pass rate is 92%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 45,311 miles at 3 years old, BMW 216D SE owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2021 BMW 216D SE Fuel Costs
The 1496cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2021 BMW 216D SE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,350 (£113/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 92% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
BMW 216D SE Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 216D SEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 BMW 216D SE
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 94%. Note: with only 61 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2021 BMW 216D SE
The BMW 216D SE is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (-3%) from 93,803 tests
- MERCEDES A (2019) 91% pass rate (-1%) from 89,588 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2019) 89% pass rate (-3%) from 65,751 tests
- KIA SPORTAGE (2019) 89% pass rate (-3%) from 58,319 tests