BMW 6 SERIES (2006)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 288 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
288
Avg Mileage
121,301 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2006 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 18 years old, 82% of BMW 6 SERIESs from 2006 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 288 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 121,301 miles.
How does the 2006 BMW 6 SERIES compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2006 BMW 6 SERIES has 121,301 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 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%. The 2006 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2006 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 2006 BMW 6 SERIES
The 2006 BMW 6 SERIES is a premium performance with a 4799cc petrol engine. 288 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 21% of all 2006 cars for reliability.
With an average of 121,301 miles at 18 years old, BMW 6 SERIES owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2006 BMW 6 SERIES Fuel Costs
The 4799cc 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 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 82% 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 2006 BMW 6 SERIES
At 18 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 93%.
Alternatives to the 2006 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:
- BMW X5 (2005) 77% pass rate (-5%) from 11,188 tests
- MERCEDES CLK (2004) 76% pass rate (-6%) from 8,352 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT (2005) 82% pass rate (same) from 8,058 tests
- VOLVO XC90 (2006) 73% pass rate (-9%) from 5,088 tests