BMW 550 (2006)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 202 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
86%
Total Tests (2024)
202
Avg Mileage
107,238 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2006 BMW 550 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 18 years old, 86% of BMW 550s from 2006 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 202 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 107,238 miles.
How does the 2006 BMW 550 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2006 BMW 550 has 107,238 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 550?
The most reliable year is the 2010 model with a 95% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 86%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2006 BMW 550 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 550 by Year
Checking a specific BMW 550?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2006 BMW 550
The 2006 BMW 550 is a premium performance with a 4395cc petrol engine. 202 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 13% of all 2006 cars for reliability.
With an average of 107,238 miles at 18 years old, BMW 550 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2006 BMW 550 Fuel Costs
The 4395cc 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 2006 BMW 550?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 86% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 550 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 550s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2006 BMW 550
At 18 years old, the BMW 550 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 2006 BMW 550
The BMW 550 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premium performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- JAGUAR XF (2008) 78% pass rate (-8%) from 12,062 tests
- BMW X5 (2005) 77% pass rate (-9%) from 11,188 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER (2006) 80% pass rate (-6%) from 8,231 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT (2005) 82% pass rate (-4%) from 8,058 tests