BMW 6 SERIES (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 171 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
80%
Total Tests (2024)
171
Avg Mileage
117,234 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2008 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 16 years old, 80% of BMW 6 SERIESs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 171 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 117,234 miles.
How does the 2008 BMW 6 SERIES compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 BMW 6 SERIES has 117,234 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-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 2008 sits between the two at 80%.
How much does a 2008 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 2008 BMW 6 SERIES
The 2008 BMW 6 SERIES is a premium performance with a 2993cc diesel engine. 171 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 117,234 miles at 16 years old, BMW 6 SERIES owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 BMW 6 SERIES Fuel Costs
The 2993cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2008 BMW 6 SERIES?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 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 2008 BMW 6 SERIES
At 16 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 2008 BMW 6 SERIES
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2008) 80% pass rate (same) from 48,705 tests
- AUDI A5 (2010) 82% pass rate (+2%) from 22,181 tests
- JAGUAR XF (2010) 80% pass rate (same) from 19,704 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2006) 78% pass rate (-2%) from 17,245 tests