BMW 523 (2011)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 341 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
84%
Total Tests (2024)
341
Avg Mileage
79,140 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2011 BMW 523 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 13 years old, 84% of BMW 523s from 2011 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 341 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 79,140 miles.
How does the 2011 BMW 523 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2011 BMW 523 has 79,140 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 96,200 miles for a 13-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 523?
The most reliable year is the 2013 model with a 100% MOT pass rate, while the 1996 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2011 sits between the two at 84%.
How much does a 2011 BMW 523 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 523 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 93% | 42 | 55,120 mi |
| 2013 | 100% | 68 | 48,039 mi |
| 2012 | 92% | 51 | 54,895 mi |
| 2011 | 84% | 341 | 79,140 mi |
| 2010 | 81% | 480 | 87,591 mi |
| 2009 | 80% | 193 | 97,424 mi |
| 2008 | 77% | 244 | 112,799 mi |
| 2007 | 76% | 327 | 118,243 mi |
| 2006 | 79% | 494 | 122,075 mi |
| 2005 | 80% | 414 | 120,862 mi |
| 2000 | 78% | 496 | 136,987 mi |
| 1999 | 71% | 1,057 | 137,920 mi |
| 1998 | 68% | 885 | 130,239 mi |
| 1997 | 78% | 266 | 128,092 mi |
| 1996 | 68% | 142 | 123,219 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 523?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2011 BMW 523
The 2011 BMW 523 is a premium performance with a 2996cc diesel engine. 341 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2011, the average MOT pass rate is 77%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 79,140 miles at 13 years old, BMW 523 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2011 BMW 523 Fuel Costs
The 2996cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 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 2011 BMW 523?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 84% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 523 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 523s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2011 BMW 523
At 13 years old, the BMW 523 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 2013 model has the highest pass rate at 100%.
Alternatives to the 2011 BMW 523
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER (2013) 88% pass rate (+4%) from 27,426 tests
- AUDI A4 (2011) 82% pass rate (-2%) from 26,901 tests
- JAGUAR XF (2013) 82% pass rate (-2%) from 24,451 tests
- AUDI A5 (2013) 85% pass rate (+1%) from 23,409 tests