BMW 218D SE (2020)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 31 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
100%
Total Tests (2024)
31
Avg Mileage
67,216 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,482
Is the 2020 BMW 218D SE reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 18 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 4 years old, 100% of BMW 218D SEs from 2020 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 31 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 67,216 miles.
How does the 2020 BMW 218D SE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2020 BMW 218D SE has 67,216 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 29,600 miles for a 4-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
How much does a 2020 BMW 218D 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 218D SE by Year
Checking a specific BMW 218D SE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2020 BMW 218D SE
The 2020 BMW 218D SE is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 31 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 3% of all 2020 cars for reliability.
With an average of 67,216 miles at 4 years old, BMW 218D SE owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2020 BMW 218D SE 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).
What does it cost to own a 2020 BMW 218D SE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,482 (£124/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 100% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
Buying a Used 2020 BMW 218D SE
At 4 years old, the BMW 218D SE offers good value with plenty of life remaining. Most manufacturer warranties will have expired, so a pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost. Note: with only 31 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2020 BMW 218D SE
The BMW 218D SE is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2018) 92% pass rate (-8%) from 111,972 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (-11%) from 93,803 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2018) 84% pass rate (-16%) from 79,867 tests
- FORD KUGA (2019) 91% pass rate (-9%) from 72,831 tests