BMW X5 (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,968 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
92%
Total Tests (2024)
1,968
Avg Mileage
35,223 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,690
Is the 2021 BMW X5 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 10 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the BMW brand average of 88%.
At 3 years old, 92% of BMW X5s from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,968 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 35,223 miles.
How does the 2021 BMW X5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 BMW X5 has 35,223 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
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 2021 sits between the two at 92%.
How much does a 2021 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 2021 BMW X5
The 2021 BMW X5 is a premium performance with a 2993cc diesel engine. 1,968 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 falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 35,223 miles at 3 years old, BMW X5 owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2021 BMW X5 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).
What does it cost to own a 2021 BMW X5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,690 (£141/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 92% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
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 2021 BMW X5
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. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 93%.
Alternatives to the 2021 BMW X5
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES E (2019) 90% pass rate (-2%) from 41,000 tests
- FORD RANGER (2019) 87% pass rate (-5%) from 32,194 tests
- AUDI Q5 (2019) 93% pass rate (+1%) from 24,241 tests
- AUDI A5 (2019) 90% pass rate (-2%) from 22,290 tests