BMW 7 SERIES (2016)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 325 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
95%
Total Tests (2024)
325
Avg Mileage
69,801 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,717
Is the 2016 BMW 7 SERIES reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 13 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 8 years old, 95% of BMW 7 SERIESs from 2016 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 325 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 69,801 miles.
How does the 2016 BMW 7 SERIES compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2016 BMW 7 SERIES has 69,801 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 59,200 miles for a 8-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 7 SERIES?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 96% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 81%. The 2016 sits between the two at 95%.
How much does a 2016 BMW 7 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 7 SERIES by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 96% | 296 | 39,598 mi |
| 2021 | 94% | 1,291 | 39,366 mi |
| 2020 | 95% | 872 | 41,603 mi |
| 2019 | 93% | 1,286 | 52,159 mi |
| 2018 | 93% | 933 | 64,053 mi |
| 2017 | 92% | 1,120 | 69,846 mi |
| 2016 | 95% | 325 | 69,801 mi |
| 2015 | 81% | 48 | 109,543 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 144 | 126,469 mi |
| 2013 | 83% | 655 | 103,469 mi |
| 2012 | 89% | 610 | 108,621 mi |
| 2011 | 84% | 190 | 123,094 mi |
| 2010 | 84% | 143 | 125,285 mi |
| 2009 | 84% | 159 | 126,518 mi |
| 2008 | 85% | 124 | 140,762 mi |
| 2007 | 84% | 98 | 149,702 mi |
| 2006 | 86% | 156 | 156,601 mi |
| 2005 | 81% | 77 | 125,512 mi |
| 1998 | 76% | 33 | 129,863 mi |
| 1997 | 86% | 35 | 129,857 mi |
| 1996 | 95% | 38 | 91,838 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 7 SERIES?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2016 BMW 7 SERIES
The 2016 BMW 7 SERIES is a premium with a 1998cc hybrid engine. 325 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 14% of all 2016 cars for reliability.
With an average of 69,801 miles at 8 years old, BMW 7 SERIES owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2016 BMW 7 SERIES Fuel Costs
The 1998cc hybrid engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current hybrid prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). As a hybrid, real-world fuel costs will vary significantly depending on how much electric-only driving you do.
What does it cost to own a 2016 BMW 7 SERIES?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,717 (£143/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 95% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
BMW 7 SERIES Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 7 SERIESs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 7 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2016 BMW 7 SERIES
At 8 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage. If you're flexible on year, the 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 96%.
Alternatives to the 2016 BMW 7 SERIES
The BMW 7 SERIES is actually the most reliable option among similar hybrid premiums from this era. Here are comparable hybrid cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES C (2017) 89% pass rate (-6%) from 87,612 tests
- TOYOTA C-HR (2018) 90% pass rate (-5%) from 31,950 tests
- TOYOTA AURIS (2015) 87% pass rate (-8%) from 27,086 tests
- MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER (2015) 83% pass rate (-12%) from 22,913 tests