BMW 318 (2011)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 119 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,047
£171/month
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Good
Road Tax
£315
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1995cc Petrol
Solid Option
81% pass rate, £2047/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~36 mpg
Based on 1995cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
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 15 years old, 81% of BMW 318s from 2011 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 119 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 102,017 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
102,017
Average miles
111,000
Expected for age
The average 2011 BMW 318 has 102,017 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2011 sits between the two at 81%.
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 |
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2011 BMW 318
The 2011 BMW 318 is a premium with a 1995cc petrol engine. 119 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2011, the average MOT pass rate is 77%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 102,017 miles at 15 years old, BMW 318 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2011 BMW 318 Fuel Costs
The 1995cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2011 BMW 318?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,047 (£171/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £315 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% 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 2011 BMW 318
At 15 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%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2011 BMW 318's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 15 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 102k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2011 BMW 318 stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 318(2011) | 81% | £1327 | £315 | Grp 18-32 | £2047 |
| FORD FOCUS(2013) | 78% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£220 |
| NISSAN QASHQAI(2013) | 72% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£220 |
| MERCEDES C(2012) | 79% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £2017-£30 |
| MINI MINI(2010) | 80% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1677-£370 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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