BMW 320 (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 49 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
49
Avg Mileage
131,336 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,577
Is the 2004 BMW 320 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 20 years old, 82% of BMW 320s from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 49 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 131,336 miles.
How does the 2004 BMW 320 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 BMW 320 has 131,336 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 320?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 73%. The 2004 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2004 BMW 320 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 320 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 97% | 61 | 22,624 mi |
| 2021 | 92% | 2,533 | 29,483 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 9,105 | 34,897 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 14,440 | 42,764 mi |
| 2018 | 91% | 17,053 | 59,320 mi |
| 2017 | 90% | 26,367 | 71,271 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 6,365 | 78,781 mi |
| 2015 | 90% | 555 | 79,550 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 441 | 82,085 mi |
| 2013 | 89% | 611 | 77,974 mi |
| 2012 | 83% | 409 | 87,516 mi |
| 2011 | 87% | 260 | 84,622 mi |
| 2010 | 86% | 291 | 91,150 mi |
| 2009 | 81% | 162 | 104,384 mi |
| 2008 | 84% | 177 | 101,514 mi |
| 2007 | 79% | 167 | 121,206 mi |
| 2006 | 74% | 145 | 143,980 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 63 | 128,780 mi |
| 2004 | 82% | 49 | 131,336 mi |
| 2003 | 77% | 30 | 119,901 mi |
| 1990 | 86% | 35 | 111,395 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 320?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 BMW 320
The 2004 BMW 320 is a premium with a 1998cc diesel engine. 49 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 22% of all 2004 cars for reliability.
With an average of 131,336 miles at 20 years old, BMW 320 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 BMW 320 Fuel Costs
The 1998cc 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 2004 BMW 320?
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 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 320 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 320s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 BMW 320
At 20 years old, the BMW 320 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 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 97%. Note: with only 49 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2004 BMW 320
The BMW 320 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2006) 72% pass rate (-10%) from 60,321 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2005) 69% pass rate (-13%) from 29,377 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2006) 71% pass rate (-11%) from 28,045 tests
- AUDI A3 (2006) 73% pass rate (-9%) from 24,088 tests