BMW Z4 (2011)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 4,148 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
4,148
Avg Mileage
66,482 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,900
Is the 2011 BMW Z4 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 13 years old, 88% of BMW Z4s from 2011 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 4,148 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 66,482 miles.
How does the 2011 BMW Z4 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2011 BMW Z4 has 66,482 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 96,200 miles for a 13-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a BMW Z4?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 78%. The 2011 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 2011 BMW Z4 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 Z4 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 97% | 190 | 16,859 mi |
| 2021 | 95% | 3,193 | 18,645 mi |
| 2020 | 94% | 4,507 | 22,507 mi |
| 2019 | 93% | 5,476 | 26,551 mi |
| 2017 | 92% | 281 | 36,527 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 2,559 | 41,764 mi |
| 2015 | 90% | 3,403 | 47,388 mi |
| 2014 | 89% | 3,837 | 52,736 mi |
| 2013 | 88% | 3,369 | 58,294 mi |
| 2012 | 87% | 4,094 | 65,038 mi |
| 2011 | 88% | 4,148 | 66,482 mi |
| 2010 | 87% | 3,917 | 72,537 mi |
| 2009 | 87% | 5,341 | 75,050 mi |
| 2008 | 81% | 3,803 | 80,859 mi |
| 2007 | 83% | 6,508 | 87,843 mi |
| 2006 | 81% | 6,617 | 89,752 mi |
| 2005 | 78% | 4,523 | 96,092 mi |
| 2004 | 81% | 6,308 | 95,043 mi |
| 2003 | 79% | 5,310 | 98,016 mi |
Checking a specific BMW Z4?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2011 BMW Z4
The 2011 BMW Z4 is a premium with a 2497cc diesel engine. 4,148 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 2011 cars for reliability.
With an average of 66,482 miles at 13 years old, BMW Z4 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2011 BMW Z4 Fuel Costs
The 2497cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. 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). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2011 BMW Z4?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,900 (£158/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 88% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
BMW Z4 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW Z4s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2011 BMW Z4
At 13 years old, the BMW Z4 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 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 97%.
Alternatives to the 2011 BMW Z4
The BMW Z4 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premiums from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2012) 82% pass rate (-6%) from 68,955 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (2013) 74% pass rate (-14%) from 41,052 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2009) 74% pass rate (-14%) from 36,553 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER EVOQUE (2012) 85% pass rate (-3%) from 34,214 tests