BMW 218I SE (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 56 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
91%
Total Tests (2024)
56
Avg Mileage
23,840 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,582
Is the 2021 BMW 218I SE reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 9 points above the national average of 82%.
At 3 years old, 91% of BMW 218I SEs from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 56 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 23,840 miles.
How does the 2021 BMW 218I SE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 BMW 218I SE has 23,840 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 218I SE?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2019 model has the lowest at 89%. The 2021 sits between the two at 91%.
How much does a 2021 BMW 218I 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 218I SE by Year
Checking a specific BMW 218I SE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 BMW 218I SE
The 2021 BMW 218I SE is a premium with a 1499cc petrol engine. 56 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 23,840 miles at 3 years old, BMW 218I SE owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2021 BMW 218I SE Fuel Costs
The 1499cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2021 BMW 218I SE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,582 (£132/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 91% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
BMW 218I SE Reliability Trend
The BMW 218I SE has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 BMW 218I 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 92%. Note: with only 56 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2021 BMW 218I SE
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2019) 92% pass rate (+1%) from 89,653 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2019) 88% pass rate (-3%) from 68,639 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2020) 93% pass rate (+2%) from 52,321 tests
- MINI COOPER (2019) 92% pass rate (+1%) from 52,140 tests