BMW 7 SERIES (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,291 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
94%
Total Tests (2024)
1,291
Avg Mileage
39,366 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,037
Is the 2021 BMW 7 SERIES reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 12 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 3 years old, 94% of BMW 7 SERIESs from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,291 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 39,366 miles.
How does the 2021 BMW 7 SERIES compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 BMW 7 SERIES has 39,366 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
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 2021 sits between the two at 94%.
How much does a 2021 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 2021 BMW 7 SERIES
The 2021 BMW 7 SERIES is a premium performance with a 2998cc hybrid engine. 1,291 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2021, the average MOT pass rate is 92%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 39,366 miles at 3 years old, BMW 7 SERIES owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2021 BMW 7 SERIES Fuel Costs
The 2998cc hybrid 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 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 2021 BMW 7 SERIES?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,037 (£170/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 94% 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 2021 BMW 7 SERIES
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet. If you're flexible on year, the 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 96%.
Alternatives to the 2021 BMW 7 SERIES
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable hybrid cars with similar engines:
- TOYOTA RAV4 (2020) 95% pass rate (+1%) from 21,063 tests
- BMW X5 XDRIVE45E M SPORT AUTO (2021) 88% pass rate (-6%) from 7,560 tests
- BMW M340I XDRIVE MHEV AUTO (2021) 93% pass rate (-1%) from 4,809 tests
- LEXUS RX (2019) 96% pass rate (+2%) from 4,047 tests