BMW 320 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 409 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
409
Avg Mileage
87,516 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,867
Is the 2012 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 12 years old, 83% of BMW 320s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 409 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 87,516 miles.
How does the 2012 BMW 320 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 BMW 320 has 87,516 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-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 2012 sits between the two at 83%.
How much does a 2012 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 2012 BMW 320
The 2012 BMW 320 is a premium with a 1997cc petrol engine. 409 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 87,516 miles at 12 years old, BMW 320 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 BMW 320 Fuel Costs
The 1997cc 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 2012 BMW 320?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,867 (£156/month), broken down as £1327 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 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 2012 BMW 320
At 12 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%.
Alternatives to the 2012 BMW 320
The BMW 320 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premiums from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2013) 78% pass rate (-5%) from 132,292 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2013) 72% pass rate (-11%) from 84,989 tests
- MERCEDES C (2012) 79% pass rate (-4%) from 59,235 tests
- MINI MINI (2010) 80% pass rate (-3%) from 59,218 tests