BMW 318 (2020)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,097 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
1,097
Avg Mileage
49,297 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,632
Is the 2020 BMW 318 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 4 years old, 88% of BMW 318s from 2020 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,097 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 49,297 miles.
How does the 2020 BMW 318 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2020 BMW 318 has 49,297 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 29,600 miles for a 4-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
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 2020 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 2020 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 2020 BMW 318
The 2020 BMW 318 is a premium with a 1995cc diesel engine. 1,097 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 81% of 2020 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 49,297 miles at 4 years old, BMW 318 owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2020 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).
What does it cost to own a 2020 BMW 318?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,632 (£136/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 88% 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 2020 BMW 318
At 4 years old, the BMW 318 offers good value with plenty of life remaining. Most manufacturer warranties will have expired, so a pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Alternatives to the 2020 BMW 318
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2018) 92% pass rate (+4%) from 111,972 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2019) 89% pass rate (+1%) from 93,803 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2018) 84% pass rate (-4%) from 79,867 tests
- FORD KUGA (2019) 91% pass rate (+3%) from 72,831 tests