BMW M3 (2017)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 3,761 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
94%
Total Tests (2024)
3,761
Avg Mileage
44,109 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,037
Is the 2017 BMW M3 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 7 years old, 94% of BMW M3s from 2017 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 3,761 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 44,109 miles.
How does the 2017 BMW M3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2017 BMW M3 has 44,109 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 51,800 miles for a 7-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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 2017 sits between the two at 94%.
How much does a 2017 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 2017 BMW M3
The 2017 BMW M3 is a premium performance with a 2979cc petrol engine. 3,761 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It ranks in the top 16% of all 2017 cars for reliability.
With an average of 44,109 miles at 7 years old, BMW M3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2017 BMW M3 Fuel Costs
The 2979cc 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 2017 BMW M3?
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 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 2017 BMW M3
At 7 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 1991 model has the highest pass rate at 100%.
Alternatives to the 2017 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:
- BMW 5 SERIES (2018) 91% pass rate (-3%) from 40,272 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT (2018) 93% pass rate (-1%) from 34,257 tests
- BMW X3 (2019) 92% pass rate (-2%) from 32,937 tests
- MERCEDES GLC (2019) 93% pass rate (-1%) from 30,341 tests