BMW 525 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,425 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
1,425
Avg Mileage
139,542 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2003 BMW 525 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 21 years old, 76% of BMW 525s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,425 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 139,542 miles.
How does the 2003 BMW 525 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 BMW 525 has 139,542 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 525?
The most reliable year is the 2016 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 1990 model has the lowest at 69%. The 2003 sits between the two at 76%.
How much does a 2003 BMW 525 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 525 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 76% | 37 | 63,347 mi |
| 2016 | 91% | 426 | 92,921 mi |
| 2015 | 89% | 881 | 98,550 mi |
| 2014 | 89% | 813 | 108,795 mi |
| 2013 | 84% | 448 | 116,973 mi |
| 2012 | 82% | 669 | 119,797 mi |
| 2011 | 87% | 1,652 | 127,862 mi |
| 2010 | 86% | 1,697 | 129,103 mi |
| 2009 | 85% | 2,283 | 138,274 mi |
| 2008 | 82% | 2,974 | 147,855 mi |
| 2007 | 81% | 3,218 | 153,182 mi |
| 2006 | 81% | 2,842 | 152,320 mi |
| 2005 | 80% | 3,057 | 158,580 mi |
| 2004 | 77% | 1,980 | 146,538 mi |
| 2003 | 76% | 1,425 | 139,542 mi |
| 2002 | 79% | 1,357 | 140,217 mi |
| 2001 | 76% | 894 | 138,556 mi |
| 2000 | 70% | 161 | 134,867 mi |
| 1998 | 70% | 33 | 153,429 mi |
| 1997 | 86% | 49 | 127,831 mi |
| 1996 | 78% | 206 | 143,832 mi |
| 1995 | 80% | 363 | 147,789 mi |
| 1994 | 78% | 280 | 142,062 mi |
| 1993 | 82% | 137 | 142,304 mi |
| 1992 | 76% | 100 | 130,213 mi |
| 1991 | 78% | 74 | 120,250 mi |
| 1990 | 69% | 70 | 128,725 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 525?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 BMW 525
The 2003 BMW 525 is a premium with a 2497cc petrol engine. 1,425 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 139,542 miles at 21 years old, BMW 525 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2003 BMW 525 Fuel Costs
The 2497cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2003 BMW 525?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 525 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 525s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 BMW 525
At 21 years old, the BMW 525 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 2016 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Alternatives to the 2003 BMW 525
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- RENAULT CLIO (2005) 67% pass rate (-9%) from 18,423 tests
- HONDA CR-V (2005) 70% pass rate (-6%) from 16,222 tests
- MERCEDES E (2005) 78% pass rate (+2%) from 8,269 tests
- FORD MONDEO (2004) 69% pass rate (-7%) from 7,419 tests