BMW 545 (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 330 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
330
Avg Mileage
125,496 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2004 BMW 545 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 20 years old, 76% of BMW 545s from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 330 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 125,496 miles.
How does the 2004 BMW 545 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 BMW 545 has 125,496 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 545?
The most reliable year is the 2005 model with a 84% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 76%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2004 BMW 545 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 545 by Year
Checking a specific BMW 545?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 BMW 545
The 2004 BMW 545 is a premium performance with a 4398cc petrol engine. 330 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 125,496 miles at 20 years old, BMW 545 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 BMW 545 Fuel Costs
The 4398cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. 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 2004 BMW 545?
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 545 Reliability Trend
The BMW 545 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 1 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 BMW 545
At 20 years old, the BMW 545 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.
Alternatives to the 2004 BMW 545
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW X5 (2005) 77% pass rate (+1%) from 11,188 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER (2006) 80% pass rate (+4%) from 8,231 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT (2005) 82% pass rate (+6%) from 8,058 tests
- VOLVO XC90 (2006) 73% pass rate (-3%) from 5,088 tests