BMW X3 (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 5,413 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
94%
Total Tests (2024)
5,413
Avg Mileage
24,798 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,037
Is the 2021 BMW X3 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 X3s from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 5,413 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 24,798 miles.
How does the 2021 BMW X3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 BMW X3 has 24,798 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
How much does a 2021 BMW X3 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 X3 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 94% | 5,413 | 24,798 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 13,187 | 33,638 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 32,937 | 42,303 mi |
| 2018 | 92% | 17,186 | 49,536 mi |
| 2017 | 89% | 16,666 | 61,118 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 18,166 | 70,153 mi |
| 2015 | 87% | 14,189 | 82,377 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 12,226 | 91,766 mi |
| 2013 | 84% | 15,082 | 98,171 mi |
| 2012 | 83% | 14,378 | 104,808 mi |
| 2011 | 84% | 8,272 | 111,744 mi |
| 2010 | 84% | 1,786 | 113,992 mi |
| 2009 | 83% | 2,902 | 117,342 mi |
| 2008 | 81% | 3,247 | 120,389 mi |
| 2007 | 78% | 4,940 | 130,152 mi |
| 2006 | 78% | 6,611 | 135,824 mi |
| 2005 | 76% | 5,434 | 140,749 mi |
| 2004 | 78% | 4,438 | 123,849 mi |
Checking a specific BMW X3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 BMW X3
The 2021 BMW X3 is a premium performance with a 2998cc petrol engine. 5,413 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 24,798 miles at 3 years old, BMW X3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2021 BMW X3 Fuel Costs
The 2998cc 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 2021 BMW X3?
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 X3 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW X3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 BMW X3
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. With 5,413 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2021 BMW X3
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW 5 SERIES (2019) 92% pass rate (-2%) from 33,766 tests
- MERCEDES GLC (2019) 93% pass rate (-1%) from 30,341 tests
- BMW X5 (2019) 92% pass rate (-2%) from 23,506 tests
- AUDI Q5 (2020) 95% pass rate (+1%) from 16,809 tests