BMW 3 (2009)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 34 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
91%
Total Tests (2024)
34
Avg Mileage
101,097 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,427
Is the 2009 BMW 3 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 9 points above the national average of 82%.
At 15 years old, 91% of BMW 3s from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 34 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 101,097 miles.
How does the 2009 BMW 3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2009 BMW 3 has 101,097 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
How much does a 2009 BMW 3 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.
Checking a specific BMW 3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2009 BMW 3
The 2009 BMW 3 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 34 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 10% of all 2009 cars for reliability.
With an average of 101,097 miles at 15 years old, BMW 3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2009 BMW 3 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). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2009 BMW 3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,427 (£119/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 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.
Buying a Used 2009 BMW 3
At 15 years old, the BMW 3 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. Note: with only 34 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2009 BMW 3
The BMW 3 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2011) 78% pass rate (-13%) from 97,916 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-17%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-17%) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2011) 81% pass rate (-10%) from 57,568 tests