BMW 6 SERIES (2005)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 147 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
80%
Total Tests (2024)
147
Avg Mileage
116,696 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2005 BMW 6 SERIES 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 19 years old, 80% of BMW 6 SERIESs from 2005 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 147 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 116,696 miles.
How does the 2005 BMW 6 SERIES compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2005 BMW 6 SERIES has 116,696 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 140,600 miles for a 19-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 6 SERIES?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 80%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2005 BMW 6 SERIES 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 6 SERIES by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 93% | 662 | 38,758 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 2,297 | 51,326 mi |
| 2018 | 91% | 3,656 | 56,355 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 632 | 62,077 mi |
| 2014 | 86% | 66 | 87,054 mi |
| 2013 | 88% | 1,897 | 91,528 mi |
| 2012 | 89% | 1,275 | 95,998 mi |
| 2011 | 89% | 247 | 80,577 mi |
| 2010 | 82% | 127 | 105,279 mi |
| 2009 | 86% | 125 | 110,442 mi |
| 2008 | 80% | 171 | 117,234 mi |
| 2007 | 90% | 203 | 114,661 mi |
| 2006 | 82% | 288 | 121,301 mi |
| 2005 | 80% | 147 | 116,696 mi |
| 1990 | 85% | 39 | 122,050 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 6 SERIES?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2005 BMW 6 SERIES
The 2005 BMW 6 SERIES is a premium performance with a 2996cc petrol engine. 147 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2005, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 116,696 miles at 19 years old, BMW 6 SERIES owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2005 BMW 6 SERIES Fuel Costs
The 2996cc 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 2005 BMW 6 SERIES?
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 80% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW 6 SERIES Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 6 SERIESs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2005 BMW 6 SERIES
At 19 years old, the BMW 6 SERIES 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 2005 BMW 6 SERIES
The BMW 6 SERIES is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premium performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2007) 75% pass rate (-5%) from 28,740 tests
- SAAB 9-3 (2007) 76% pass rate (-4%) from 13,261 tests
- MERCEDES E (2004) 78% pass rate (-2%) from 8,333 tests
- MERCEDES CLK (2007) 76% pass rate (-4%) from 8,003 tests