BMW M3 (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,681 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
89%
Total Tests (2024)
2,681
Avg Mileage
98,105 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2004 BMW M3 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 7 points above the national average of 82%.
At 20 years old, 89% of BMW M3s from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,681 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 98,105 miles.
How does the 2004 BMW M3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 BMW M3 has 98,105 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a BMW M3?
The most reliable year is the 1991 model with a 100% MOT pass rate, while the 1994 model has the lowest at 84%. The 2004 sits between the two at 89%.
How much does a 2004 BMW M3 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 M3 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 96% | 2,770 | 39,337 mi |
| 2017 | 94% | 3,761 | 44,109 mi |
| 2016 | 95% | 3,045 | 51,414 mi |
| 2015 | 96% | 2,366 | 58,218 mi |
| 2014 | 93% | 1,009 | 61,459 mi |
| 2013 | 94% | 920 | 52,129 mi |
| 2012 | 93% | 1,463 | 61,117 mi |
| 2011 | 92% | 1,593 | 69,269 mi |
| 2010 | 92% | 1,787 | 72,560 mi |
| 2009 | 93% | 1,844 | 81,000 mi |
| 2008 | 91% | 2,873 | 83,256 mi |
| 2007 | 93% | 1,081 | 92,362 mi |
| 2006 | 89% | 633 | 84,058 mi |
| 2005 | 89% | 1,752 | 91,815 mi |
| 2004 | 89% | 2,681 | 98,105 mi |
| 2003 | 89% | 3,515 | 100,457 mi |
| 2002 | 88% | 2,430 | 104,512 mi |
| 2001 | 89% | 552 | 112,063 mi |
| 1999 | 87% | 403 | 91,828 mi |
| 1998 | 87% | 575 | 99,827 mi |
| 1997 | 90% | 598 | 107,612 mi |
| 1996 | 86% | 526 | 109,107 mi |
| 1995 | 88% | 416 | 111,955 mi |
| 1994 | 84% | 220 | 119,067 mi |
| 1993 | 76% | 41 | 128,458 mi |
| 1991 | 100% | 51 | 95,928 mi |
| 1990 | 95% | 110 | 91,917 mi |
Checking a specific BMW M3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 BMW M3
The 2004 BMW M3 is a premium performance with a 3246cc petrol engine. 2,681 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It ranks in the top 8% of all 2004 cars for reliability.
With an average of 98,105 miles at 20 years old, BMW M3 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2004 BMW M3 Fuel Costs
The 3246cc 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 2004 BMW M3?
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 89% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW M3 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW M3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 BMW M3
At 20 years old, the BMW M3 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 1991 model has the highest pass rate at 100%.
Alternatives to the 2004 BMW M3
The BMW M3 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premium performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2006) 70% pass rate (-19%) from 12,591 tests
- MERCEDES E (2004) 78% pass rate (-11%) from 8,333 tests
- PORSCHE BOXSTER (2005) 86% pass rate (-3%) from 6,992 tests
- BMW X3 (2006) 78% pass rate (-11%) from 6,611 tests