BMW 740 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 120 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
90%
Total Tests (2024)
120
Avg Mileage
106,102 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,750
Is the 2012 BMW 740 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 8 points above the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 90% of BMW 740s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 120 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 106,102 miles.
How does the 2012 BMW 740 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 BMW 740 has 106,102 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW 740?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 1995 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2012 sits between the two at 90%.
How much does a 2012 BMW 740 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 740 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 97% | 253 | 36,282 mi |
| 2020 | 97% | 715 | 40,432 mi |
| 2019 | 95% | 1,241 | 53,056 mi |
| 2018 | 93% | 1,442 | 62,534 mi |
| 2017 | 91% | 951 | 71,078 mi |
| 2016 | 94% | 1,203 | 76,827 mi |
| 2015 | 92% | 317 | 68,035 mi |
| 2014 | 91% | 214 | 86,689 mi |
| 2013 | 90% | 138 | 97,147 mi |
| 2012 | 90% | 120 | 106,102 mi |
| 2011 | 87% | 160 | 113,817 mi |
| 2010 | 89% | 179 | 106,897 mi |
| 2009 | 85% | 216 | 114,608 mi |
| 2008 | 88% | 41 | 87,993 mi |
| 2006 | 86% | 57 | 102,858 mi |
| 2005 | 84% | 56 | 99,566 mi |
| 2001 | 85% | 98 | 128,466 mi |
| 2000 | 85% | 131 | 118,861 mi |
| 1999 | 86% | 174 | 130,186 mi |
| 1998 | 85% | 176 | 127,512 mi |
| 1997 | 77% | 160 | 123,204 mi |
| 1996 | 88% | 133 | 135,364 mi |
| 1995 | 72% | 126 | 144,068 mi |
| 1994 | 76% | 55 | 128,943 mi |
Checking a specific BMW 740?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 BMW 740
The 2012 BMW 740 is a premium performance with a 2993cc diesel engine. 120 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 18% of all 2012 cars for reliability.
With an average of 106,102 miles at 12 years old, BMW 740 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 BMW 740 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 2012 BMW 740?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,750 (£146/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 90% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
BMW 740 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW 740s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 BMW 740
At 12 years old, the BMW 740 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 97%.
Alternatives to the 2012 BMW 740
The BMW 740 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premium performances from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER (2013) 88% pass rate (-2%) from 27,426 tests
- AUDI A4 (2011) 82% pass rate (-8%) from 26,901 tests
- JAGUAR XF (2014) 84% pass rate (-6%) from 26,866 tests
- AUDI A5 (2013) 85% pass rate (-5%) from 23,409 tests