BMW Z4 (2017)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 281 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
92%
Total Tests (2024)
281
Avg Mileage
36,527 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,772
Is the 2017 BMW Z4 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 7 years old, 92% of BMW Z4s from 2017 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 281 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 36,527 miles.
How does the 2017 BMW Z4 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2017 BMW Z4 has 36,527 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 51,800 miles for a 7-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 2017 sits between the two at 92%.
How much does a 2017 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 2017 BMW Z4
The 2017 BMW Z4 is a premium with a 1997cc petrol engine. 281 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2017, the average MOT pass rate is 87%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 36,527 miles at 7 years old, BMW Z4 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2017 BMW Z4 Fuel Costs
The 1997cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 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 Z4?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,772 (£148/month), broken down as £1327 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 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 2017 BMW Z4
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 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 97%.
Alternatives to the 2017 BMW Z4
The BMW Z4 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premiums from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2015) 85% pass rate (-7%) from 129,337 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2019) 92% pass rate (same) from 89,653 tests
- FORD KUGA (2018) 90% pass rate (-2%) from 67,605 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2015) 88% pass rate (-4%) from 61,659 tests