BMW 316 (2011)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 396 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
396
Avg Mileage
138,097 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,577
Is the 2011 BMW 316 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 13 years old, 83% of BMW 316s from 2011 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 396 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 138,097 miles.
How does the 2011 BMW 316 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2011 BMW 316 has 138,097 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 96,200 miles for a 13-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
Best year to buy a BMW 316?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 1995 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2011 sits between the two at 83%.
How much does a 2011 BMW 316 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 316 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 91% | 70 | 64,483 mi |
| 2018 | 91% | 606 | 72,417 mi |
| 2017 | 90% | 1,237 | 81,552 mi |
| 2016 | 86% | 948 | 97,386 mi |
| 2015 | 86% | 1,313 | 101,106 mi |
| 2014 | 86% | 2,914 | 95,868 mi |
| 2013 | 85% | 2,489 | 95,027 mi |
| 2012 | 80% | 952 | 123,221 mi |
| 2011 | 83% | 396 | 138,097 mi |
| 2010 | 78% | 548 | 146,511 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 284 | 136,836 mi |
| 2005 | 87% | 115 | 80,365 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 1,262 | 90,985 mi |
| 2003 | 74% | 1,265 | 93,504 mi |
| 2002 | 76% | 686 | 96,942 mi |
| 2001 | 74% | 615 | 100,456 mi |
| 2000 | 73% | 527 | 105,144 mi |
| 1999 | 77% | 803 | 107,610 mi |
| 1998 | 78% | 831 | 105,029 mi |
| 1997 | 75% | 757 | 107,650 mi |
| 1996 | 75% | 587 | 108,605 mi |
| 1995 | 72% | 467 | 90,008 mi |
| 1994 | 74% | 304 | 114,145 mi |
| 1993 | 75% | 292 | 129,047 mi |
| 1992 | 82% | 146 | 112,349 mi |
| 1991 | 82% | 241 | 116,990 mi |
| 1990 | 82% | 510 | 115,728 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 316?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2011 BMW 316
The 2011 BMW 316 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 396 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2011, the average MOT pass rate is 77%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 138,097 miles at 13 years old, BMW 316 owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2011 BMW 316 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 2011 BMW 316?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,577 (£131/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 83% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 316 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 316s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 6 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2011 BMW 316
At 13 years old, the BMW 316 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2018 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Alternatives to the 2011 BMW 316
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2013) 85% pass rate (+2%) from 103,434 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (-4%) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-9%) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2013) 85% pass rate (+2%) from 71,326 tests