BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 191 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
95%
Total Tests (2024)
191
Avg Mileage
40,098 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,772
Is the 2021 BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 13 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 3 years old, 95% of BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTOs from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 191 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 40,098 miles.
How does the 2021 BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO has 40,098 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
How much does a 2021 BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO 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 520D SE MHEV AUTO by Year
Checking a specific BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO
The 2021 BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO is a premium with a 1995cc petrol engine. 191 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2021, the average MOT pass rate is 92%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 40,098 miles at 3 years old, BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2021 BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO 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 2021 BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,772 (£148/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 95% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO Reliability Trend
The BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet.
Alternatives to the 2021 BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO
The BMW 520D SE MHEV AUTO is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premiums from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT R-DYN SE D A (2020) 90% pass rate (-5%) from 5,505 tests
- BMW 520D M SPORT MHEV AUTO (2021) 89% pass rate (-6%) from 3,423 tests
- BMW 320D M SPORT MHEV AUTO (2021) 91% pass rate (-4%) from 3,336 tests
- VOLVO XC90 R-DESIGN B5 MHEV AWD AUTO (2021) 90% pass rate (-5%) from 2,911 tests