BMW 318 (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 89 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
89
Avg Mileage
109,429 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2008 BMW 318 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 16 years old, 75% of BMW 318s from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 89 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 109,429 miles.
How does the 2008 BMW 318 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 BMW 318 has 109,429 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 318?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2008 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2008 BMW 318 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 318 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 88% | 208 | 40,912 mi |
| 2020 | 88% | 1,097 | 49,297 mi |
| 2019 | 91% | 3,098 | 52,537 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 5,003 | 58,152 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 4,882 | 68,955 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 1,595 | 72,449 mi |
| 2015 | 89% | 80 | 83,406 mi |
| 2014 | 88% | 69 | 101,643 mi |
| 2013 | 80% | 46 | 90,437 mi |
| 2012 | 77% | 88 | 117,928 mi |
| 2011 | 81% | 119 | 102,017 mi |
| 2010 | 79% | 97 | 129,804 mi |
| 2009 | 72% | 74 | 116,519 mi |
| 2008 | 75% | 89 | 109,429 mi |
| 2007 | 70% | 73 | 106,943 mi |
| 2006 | 94% | 35 | 93,688 mi |
| 1997 | 75% | 32 | 85,018 mi |
| 1991 | 83% | 40 | 104,481 mi |
| 1990 | 76% | 38 | 113,579 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 318?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 BMW 318
The 2008 BMW 318 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 89 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 109,429 miles at 16 years old, BMW 318 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 BMW 318 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 2008 BMW 318?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 318 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 318s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 11 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 BMW 318
At 16 years old, the BMW 318 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 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 91%. Note: with only 89 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2008 BMW 318
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-1%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2010) 77% pass rate (+2%) from 87,733 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-1%) from 75,715 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2007) 72% pass rate (-3%) from 45,025 tests