CarCostCheck

BMW 3

Reliability, estimated running costs, and MOT data across 3 model years from 185 MOT tests in 2024.

Avg Pass Rate

88%

Total Tests

185

Model Years

2009 to 2014

Years Covered

3

About the BMW 3

The BMW 3 was MOT tested 185 times in 2024 (DVSA data, retests included) across 3 model years (2009 to 2014), with an average pass rate of 88%. That's comfortably above the average of 82% across all models in our data. Our records list hybrid and petrol and diesel versions.

Mileage Across Years

The oldest model in our data (2009) averages 101,097 miles, while the newest (2014) averages 71,139 miles. Older models have covered serious mileage, so suspension and drivetrain wear are worth checking.

Estimated Running Costs

Fuel (Hybrid, 2979cc)
£1,958
Road Tax
£445
MOT Test
£55
Predicted Repairs
£350
Total per year£2,808
Per month£234/mo

Based on 7,400 miles/year, average pump prices of 174.57p petrol and 199.33p diesel (GOV.UK weekly road fuel prices, week of 19 October 2026), and MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.

Full 2014 details

How reliable is the BMW 3?

vs average of all models+6% (82% avg)
vs BMW brand average+0% (88% avg)

BMW 3 by Year

Click any year to see detailed running costs, reliability data, and comparisons with similar cars.

YearPass RateTestsAvg Mileage
201487%11471,139 mi
201386%3779,004 mi
200991%34101,097 mi

Questions about the BMW 3

Is the BMW 3 reliable?

Across its 3 model years in our data (2009 to 2014), the BMW 3 averages an 88% MOT pass rate, from 185 tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included). That's 6 points above the average of 82% across all models in the same data.

BMW 3 Guides & Articles

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