BMW 523 (2016)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 42 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
93%
Total Tests (2024)
42
Avg Mileage
55,120 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,427
Is the 2016 BMW 523 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 11 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 8 years old, 93% of BMW 523s from 2016 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 42 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 55,120 miles.
How does the 2016 BMW 523 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2016 BMW 523 has 55,120 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 59,200 miles for a 8-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 2016 sits between the two at 93%.
How much does a 2016 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 2016 BMW 523
The 2016 BMW 523 is a premium with a 1999cc diesel engine. 42 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 23% of all 2016 cars for reliability.
With an average of 55,120 miles at 8 years old, BMW 523 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2016 BMW 523 Fuel Costs
The 1999cc 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 2016 BMW 523?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,427 (£119/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 93% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
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 2016 BMW 523
At 8 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage. If you're flexible on year, the 2013 model has the highest pass rate at 100%. Note: with only 42 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2016 BMW 523
The BMW 523 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2017) 91% pass rate (-2%) from 127,682 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2014) 79% pass rate (-14%) from 90,897 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2018) 89% pass rate (-4%) from 82,066 tests
- AUDI A3 (2015) 88% pass rate (-5%) from 80,797 tests