MERCEDES B-CLASS (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 6,925 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
6,925
Avg Mileage
100,673 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2008 MERCEDES B-CLASS reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 16 years old, 71% of MERCEDES B-CLASSs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 6,925 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 100,673 miles.
How does the 2008 MERCEDES B-CLASS compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 MERCEDES B-CLASS has 100,673 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 MERCEDES B-CLASS?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 93% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 71%. The 2008 sits between the two at 71%.
How much does a 2008 MERCEDES B-CLASS cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES B-CLASS by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 98% | 47 | 23,364 mi |
| 2019 | 93% | 912 | 29,781 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 6,729 | 39,021 mi |
| 2017 | 88% | 9,693 | 48,392 mi |
| 2016 | 87% | 9,657 | 55,381 mi |
| 2015 | 86% | 9,871 | 64,066 mi |
| 2014 | 83% | 15,382 | 72,344 mi |
| 2013 | 82% | 13,421 | 78,118 mi |
| 2012 | 81% | 11,092 | 83,827 mi |
| 2011 | 73% | 6,779 | 84,302 mi |
| 2010 | 74% | 8,819 | 90,612 mi |
| 2009 | 74% | 8,277 | 95,335 mi |
| 2008 | 71% | 6,925 | 100,673 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 5,184 | 101,539 mi |
| 2006 | 71% | 4,235 | 103,535 mi |
| 2005 | 73% | 805 | 105,799 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES B-CLASS?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 MERCEDES B-CLASS
The 2008 MERCEDES B-CLASS is a family car with a 1699cc petrol engine. 6,925 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 100,673 miles at 16 years old, MERCEDES B-CLASS owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 MERCEDES B-CLASS Fuel Costs
The 1699cc 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 2008 MERCEDES B-CLASS?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES B-CLASS Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES B-CLASSs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 MERCEDES B-CLASS
At 16 years old, the MERCEDES B-CLASS 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 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 93%. With 6,925 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2008 MERCEDES B-CLASS
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2008) 72% pass rate (+1%) from 109,443 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2009) 74% pass rate (+3%) from 105,193 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2010) 74% pass rate (+3%) from 99,909 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2010) 67% pass rate (-4%) from 60,994 tests