BMW X5 (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 8,054 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
84%
Total Tests (2024)
8,054
Avg Mileage
133,171 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2008 BMW X5 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 16 years old, 84% of BMW X5s from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 8,054 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 133,171 miles.
How does the 2008 BMW X5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 BMW X5 has 133,171 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a BMW X5?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 74%. The 2008 sits between the two at 84%.
How much does a 2008 BMW X5 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 X5 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 92% | 1,968 | 35,223 mi |
| 2020 | 93% | 8,594 | 38,415 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 23,506 | 47,135 mi |
| 2018 | 91% | 17,687 | 58,065 mi |
| 2017 | 92% | 14,511 | 67,347 mi |
| 2016 | 92% | 14,826 | 76,292 mi |
| 2015 | 91% | 17,257 | 86,297 mi |
| 2014 | 92% | 13,889 | 96,575 mi |
| 2013 | 88% | 8,346 | 102,589 mi |
| 2012 | 86% | 9,533 | 110,198 mi |
| 2011 | 86% | 9,720 | 115,184 mi |
| 2010 | 86% | 8,668 | 121,461 mi |
| 2009 | 86% | 9,917 | 129,547 mi |
| 2008 | 84% | 8,054 | 133,171 mi |
| 2007 | 82% | 8,281 | 137,811 mi |
| 2006 | 76% | 7,388 | 146,446 mi |
| 2005 | 77% | 11,188 | 147,753 mi |
| 2004 | 77% | 6,276 | 147,620 mi |
| 2003 | 77% | 3,953 | 143,116 mi |
| 2002 | 74% | 2,242 | 144,771 mi |
| 2001 | 76% | 1,085 | 143,091 mi |
| 2000 | 80% | 46 | 121,636 mi |
Checking a specific BMW X5?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 BMW X5
The 2008 BMW X5 is a premium performance with a 4799cc petrol engine. 8,054 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It ranks in the top 22% of all 2008 cars for reliability.
With an average of 133,171 miles at 16 years old, BMW X5 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 BMW X5 Fuel Costs
The 4799cc 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 2008 BMW X5?
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 84% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW X5 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW X5s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 11 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 BMW X5
At 16 years old, the BMW X5 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 93%. With 8,054 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2008 BMW X5
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- AUDI A6 (2009) 81% pass rate (-3%) from 8,341 tests
- VOLVO XC90 (2009) 78% pass rate (-6%) from 6,349 tests
- MERCEDES ML (2006) 80% pass rate (-4%) from 3,946 tests
- PORSCHE CAYENNE (2006) 86% pass rate (+2%) from 2,242 tests