81.0% of BMW 1 Series models passed the 2024 MOT (398,575 first tests): 76.1% at the first attempt and 4.9% after a fix at the test centre (PRS). About 1 in 4 failed the first attempt. For its age, it fails 15% less often than normal: MOT Risk Index 85.0 (95% CI 84.5–85.5; 100 = normal).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MOT pass rate | 81.0 | % | incl. 4.9% fixed at the test centre | 2024 | 398575 |
| Passed at the first attempt | 76.1 | % | all first tests | 2024 | 398575 |
| MOT Risk Index (95% CI 84.5–85.5) | 85.0 | index | 100 = normal for its age · rank 306 of 761 (1 = fails least for its age) | 2024 | 398575 |
| Biggest excess: Tyres | 10.4 | per 100 | 8.8 same-age | 2019–2024 | 2252061 |
| Dangerous defects | 11.7 | per 100 | 11.2 UK, not age-adjusted | 2019–2024 | 2252061 |
| Advisory items | 108.7 | per 100 | 127.1 UK, not age-adjusted | 2019–2024 | 2252061 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | 306 | of 761 | published models, 1 = fails least for its age | 2024 | 398575 |
| Best rank within its 95% interval | 304 | rank | other models held where they are | 2024 | 398575 |
| Worst rank within its 95% interval | 310 | rank | other models held where they are | 2024 | 398575 |
Data release dvsa-2024-v2 (24 Sep 2026) · full dataset (v5). This model's index is unchanged in the 24 September 2026 release.
BMW 1 Series MOTs fail most often on tyres: 10.4 per 100 tests, against 8.8 for UK cars of the same age (2019–2024, n = 2,252,061).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tyres | 10.4 | per 100 | 8.8 | 2019–2024 | 233829 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment | 10.2 | per 100 | 15.1 | 2019–2024 | 229198 |
| Brakes | 8.8 | per 100 | 10.2 | 2019–2024 | 198409 |
| Visibility | 7.4 | per 100 | 7.3 | 2019–2024 | 166601 |
| Suspension | 6.4 | per 100 | 13.5 | 2019–2024 | 143379 |
| Noise, emissions and leaks | 2.1 | per 100 | 3.1 | 2019–2024 | 47318 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 2,252,061 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
The biggest excess for the BMW 1 Series is tyres at age 3: 6.1 failures per 100 tests, against 4.2 for same-age cars of comparable models (2019–2024, n = 180,663).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tyres, age 3 | 6.1 | per 100 | 4.2 | 2019–2024 | 180663 |
| Brakes, age 3 | 1.1 | per 100 | 1.8 | 2019–2024 | 180663 |
| Suspension, age 3 | 0.3 | per 100 | 0.6 | 2019–2024 | 180663 |
| Tyres, age 4 | 5.9 | per 100 | 4.5 | 2019–2024 | 181936 |
| Brakes, age 4 | 1.8 | per 100 | 2.4 | 2019–2024 | 181936 |
| Suspension, age 4 | 0.3 | per 100 | 1.2 | 2019–2024 | 181936 |
| Tyres, age 5 | 6.3 | per 100 | 5.1 | 2019–2024 | 187339 |
| Brakes, age 5 | 2.6 | per 100 | 3.1 | 2019–2024 | 187339 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suspension, age 5 | 0.5 | per 100 | 2.2 | 2019–2024 | 187339 |
| Tyres, age 6 | 6.8 | per 100 | 5.5 | 2019–2024 | 197299 |
| Brakes, age 6 | 3.3 | per 100 | 3.8 | 2019–2024 | 197299 |
| Suspension, age 6 | 0.7 | per 100 | 3.7 | 2019–2024 | 197299 |
| Tyres, age 7 | 7.3 | per 100 | 6.0 | 2019–2024 | 200293 |
| Brakes, age 7 | 3.7 | per 100 | 4.5 | 2019–2024 | 200293 |
| Suspension, age 7 | 1.4 | per 100 | 5.7 | 2019–2024 | 200293 |
| Tyres, age 8 | 7.5 | per 100 | 6.3 | 2019–2024 | 191355 |
| Brakes, age 8 | 4.2 | per 100 | 5.4 | 2019–2024 | 191355 |
| Suspension, age 8 | 2.2 | per 100 | 7.8 | 2019–2024 | 191355 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
BMW 1 Series advisories turn into fails less often than on the median model; the one to watch is lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: advisories on it became a fail at the next MOT 18.4% of the time.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment | 18.4 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 21806 |
| Suspension | 15.5 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 146134 |
| Visibility | 13.4 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 2031 |
| Brakes | 10.9 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 336132 |
| Tyres | 10.3 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 418546 |
| Body, chassis, structure | 5.9 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 29811 |
| Noise, emissions and leaks | 5.5 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 55742 |
| Steering | 4.1 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 10690 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems | 4 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 3175 |
| Identification of the vehicle | 2.8 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 23828 |
| Road wheels | 1.6 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 19075 |
| Non-component advisories | 0 | % next fail | median model | 2019–2024 | 123206 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
BMW 1 Series MOTs flag tyres most: 39.8 advisories per 100 tests, against 39.7 across UK tests (2019–2024, n = 2,252,061).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tyres | 39.8 | per 100 | 39.7 | 2019–2024 | 895955 |
| Brakes | 35.5 | per 100 | 34.7 | 2019–2024 | 798403 |
| Suspension | 13.9 | per 100 | 26.2 | 2019–2024 | 313201 |
| Non-component advisories | 7.8 | per 100 | 7.8 | 2019–2024 | 174718 |
| Noise, emissions and leaks | 3.9 | per 100 | 5.2 | 2019–2024 | 87351 |
| Body, chassis, structure | 2.1 | per 100 | 4.6 | 2019–2024 | 46671 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 2,252,061 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
For BMW 1 Series models aged 3 to 5 whose last MOT was a pass, the item most likely to fail at the next MOT is tyres: 5.4% failed on it (2019–2024, n = 277,448).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tyres, under 3 years old, after a pass | 5.1 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 87101 | |
| Visibility, under 3 years old, after a pass | 2.7 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 87101 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, under 3 years old, after a pass | 1.2 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 87101 | |
| Tyres, under 3 years old, after an advisory | 6.6 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 23793 | |
| Visibility, under 3 years old, after an advisory | 3.9 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 23793 | |
| Tyres, under 3 years old, after a fail | 7.2 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 13846 | |
| Visibility, under 3 years old, after a fail | 4.0 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 13846 | |
| Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass | 5.4 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 277448 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass | 3.5 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 277448 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after a pass | 2.5 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 277448 | |
| Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory | 7.6 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 113390 | |
| Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory | 4.9 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 113390 | |
| Brakes, 3 to 5 years old, after an advisory | 3.7 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 113390 | |
| Tyres, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail | 8.5 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 66153 | |
| Visibility, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail | 5.5 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 66153 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 3 to 5 years old, after a fail | 5.3 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 66153 | |
| Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass | 6.0 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 232898 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass | 5.4 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 232898 | |
| Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after a pass | 4.8 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 232898 | |
| Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory | 8.5 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 140696 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory | 7.2 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 140696 | |
| Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after an advisory | 6.5 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 140696 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail | 10.2 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 105242 | |
| Tyres, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail | 9.7 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 105242 | |
| Visibility, 6 to 8 years old, after a fail | 7.8 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 105242 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass | 7.4 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 156342 | |
| Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass | 6.7 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 156342 | |
| Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after a pass | 6.2 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 156342 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory | 9.8 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 125703 | |
| Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory | 9.8 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 125703 | |
| Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after an advisory | 8.6 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 125703 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail | 13 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 113506 | |
| Suspension, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail | 11.6 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 113506 | |
| Visibility, 9 to 11 years old, after a fail | 10.3 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 113506 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass | 8.7 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 78150 | |
| Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass | 7.8 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 78150 | |
| Visibility, 12 to 14 years old, after a pass | 7.5 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 78150 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory | 12.0 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 89565 | |
| Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory | 11.4 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 89565 | |
| Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after an advisory | 11.0 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 89565 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail | 15.6 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 84447 | |
| Brakes, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail | 14.1 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 84447 | |
| Suspension, 12 to 14 years old, after a fail | 13.5 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 84447 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass | 11.3 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 21168 | |
| Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass | 9.1 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 21168 | |
| Visibility, 15 to 19 years old, after a pass | 8.4 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 21168 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory | 15.9 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 32780 | |
| Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory | 14.1 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 32780 | |
| Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after an advisory | 12.0 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 32780 | |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail | 20.4 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 31596 | |
| Brakes, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail | 17.7 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 31596 | |
| Suspension, 15 to 19 years old, after a fail | 15.2 | % next fail | 2019–2024 | 31596 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
The BMW 1 Series gets a dangerous defect about as often as the UK average: 11.7 per 100 first tests against 11.2 across the UK. In the same tests, 29.5 major and 8.4 minor defects were recorded per 100 tests (one test can record several).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dangerous defects | 11.7 | per 100 | 11.2 | 2019–2024 | 2252061 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 2,252,061 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id; severity not recorded for some 2018–2021 tests · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
First-time MOT failures for the BMW 1 Series go from 9.8% at age 3 to 39.1% at age 19, against 43.5% for all cars aged 19 (2024, n = 398,575).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 3 | 9.8 | % failed first time | 12.4 | 2024 | 19795 |
| Age 4 | 10.5 | % failed first time | 13.1 | 2024 | 24808 |
| Age 5 | 13.5 | % failed first time | 15.1 | 2024 | 28380 |
| Age 6 | 15.6 | % failed first time | 17.5 | 2024 | 27061 |
| Age 7 | 16.7 | % failed first time | 20.2 | 2024 | 33156 |
| Age 8 | 19.6 | % failed first time | 23.3 | 2024 | 32176 |
| Age 9 | 21.8 | % failed first time | 26.5 | 2024 | 31789 |
| Age 10 | 25.9 | % failed first time | 30.1 | 2024 | 30538 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 11 | 28.3 | % failed first time | 33.2 | 2024 | 36435 |
| Age 12 | 32.4 | % failed first time | 35.7 | 2024 | 28842 |
| Age 13 | 32.6 | % failed first time | 38.2 | 2024 | 22081 |
| Age 14 | 33.6 | % failed first time | 40.4 | 2024 | 22497 |
| Age 15 | 34.6 | % failed first time | 41.6 | 2024 | 19186 |
| Age 16 | 34.9 | % failed first time | 43.1 | 2024 | 15193 |
| Age 17 | 35.9 | % failed first time | 43.1 | 2024 | 9829 |
| Age 18 | 38.5 | % failed first time | 43.9 | 2024 | 8394 |
| Age 19 | 39.1 | % failed first time | 43.5 | 2024 | 5853 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
At 3 of 18 ages shown, BMW 1 Series models fail first time more often than comparable models of the same size class; the biggest difference is at age 15, where they fail less often: 35.8% against 42.1% (2024, n = 81,804).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 3 | 11.4 | % fail | 11.7 | 2024 | 180663 |
| Age 4 | 12.6 | % fail | 13.2 | 2024 | 181936 |
| Age 5 | 15.1 | % fail | 15.0 | 2024 | 187339 |
| Age 6 | 17.8 | % fail | 17.2 | 2024 | 197299 |
| Age 7 | 20.1 | % fail | 20.0 | 2024 | 200293 |
| Age 8 | 22.5 | % fail | 23.0 | 2024 | 191355 |
| Age 9 | 25.1 | % fail | 26.5 | 2024 | 186345 |
| Age 10 | 27.6 | % fail | 29.8 | 2024 | 177210 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 11 | 29.8 | % fail | 33.3 | 2024 | 166888 |
| Age 12 | 31.9 | % fail | 36.2 | 2024 | 143116 |
| Age 13 | 33.3 | % fail | 38.6 | 2024 | 124232 |
| Age 14 | 34.8 | % fail | 40.6 | 2024 | 108908 |
| Age 15 | 35.8 | % fail | 42.1 | 2024 | 81804 |
| Age 16 | 36.8 | % fail | 42.9 | 2024 | 54461 |
| Age 17 | 38.0 | % fail | 43.3 | 2024 | 32984 |
| Age 18 | 38.3 | % fail | 43.4 | 2024 | 18706 |
| Age 19 | 39.2 | % fail | 43.0 | 2024 | 7945 |
| Age 20 | 38.0 | % fail | 42.3 | 2024 | 1519 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
The BMW 1 Series build year that fails most for its age is 2012: index 107.6 (95% CI 106.6–108.5) against the model's own age norm of 100 (2019–2024, n = 183,349).
Build year matters for the BMW 1 Series: 2012 BMW 1 Series models fail more than their age would predict, 2017 ones less. Years whose confidence interval includes normal are shown without a label.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Build year 2004 (worse for its age) | 105 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 18094 |
| Build year 2005 (worse for its age) | 104.1 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 62234 |
| Build year 2006 (worse for its age) | 101.8 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 76682 |
| Build year 2007 (better for its age) | 98.3 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 85385 |
| Build year 2008 (better for its age) | 98.5 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 120367 |
| Build year 2009 | 99.3 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 138466 |
| Build year 2010 (worse for its age) | 101.6 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 156219 |
| Build year 2011 | 100.1 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 146564 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Build year 2012 (worse for its age) | 107.6 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 183349 |
| Build year 2013 (worse for its age) | 103.1 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 228790 |
| Build year 2014 (worse for its age) | 104 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 189877 |
| Build year 2015 (better for its age) | 97 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 194489 |
| Build year 2016 (better for its age) | 97.5 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 196915 |
| Build year 2017 (better for its age) | 89.7 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 177556 |
| Build year 2018 | 98.7 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 111149 |
| Build year 2019 | 99.2 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 86860 |
| Build year 2020 (better for its age) | 90.5 | index vs own age | 100 = normal | 2019–2024 | 50212 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
Expected repair cost per BMW 1 Series MOT: about £53 (up to about £100 if more expensive parts are needed), from the chance of failing each item and its most common UK repair price (catalogue estimate, n = 398,575).
Computed, not measured.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expected repair bill | 52.6 | GBP estimate | modal price catalogue | price catalogue | 398575 |
| Estimated range lower | 52.6 | GBP estimate | modal price catalogue | price catalogue | 398575 |
| Estimated range upper | 99.9 | GBP estimate | modal price catalogue | price catalogue | 398575 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: Battery replacement (standard 12V lead-acid) | 14.3 | GBP expected contribution | 140 | price catalogue | 398575 |
| Brakes: Front brake pads (parts + labour, typical hatchback) | 13.2 | GBP expected contribution | 150 | price catalogue | 398575 |
| Suspension: Suspension coil spring (single corner) | 11.5 | GBP expected contribution | 180 | price catalogue | 398575 |
| Tyres: Tyre (single mid-range 16" fitted) | 9.4 | GBP expected contribution | 90 | price catalogue | 398575 |
| Noise, emissions and leaks: Exhaust rear silencer | 4.2 | GBP expected contribution | 200 | price catalogue | 398575 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: price catalogue · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
Of 8 similar models, 5 fail less often for their age than the BMW 1 Series and 3 as often or more. The BMW 1 Series has an MOT Risk Index of 85.0, where 100 = normal for its age (2024, n = 398,575).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 1 Series (this model) | 85 | index | 100 = normal | 2024 | 398575 |
| BMW 3 Series | 80.7 | index | 85 | 2024 | 498596 |
| Audi A3 | 84.8 | index | 85 | 2024 | 389739 |
| BMW X3 | 81.7 | index | 85 | 2024 | 104772 |
| Audi A4 | 87.4 | index | 85 | 2024 | 244118 |
| Volkswagen Tiguan | 80.8 | index | 85 | 2024 | 240949 |
| BMW 5 Series | 71.8 | index | 85 | 2024 | 211217 |
| Ford Kuga | 90.2 | index | 85 | 2024 | 254154 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skoda Octavia | 89.7 | index | 85 | 2024 | 205251 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
At age 8, the median BMW 1 Series had covered 66,428 miles by its MOT; the middle half ranged from 51,040 to 84,230 miles (2024, n = 32,176).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 3 median | 24142 | miles | 2024 | 19795 | |
| Age 3 P25 | 17327 | miles | 2024 | 19795 | |
| Age 3 P75 | 32692 | miles | 2024 | 19795 | |
| Age 4 median | 30369 | miles | 2024 | 24808 | |
| Age 4 P25 | 22318 | miles | 2024 | 24808 | |
| Age 4 P75 | 40300 | miles | 2024 | 24808 | |
| Age 5 median | 37805 | miles | 2024 | 28380 | |
| Age 5 P25 | 28099 | miles | 2024 | 28380 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 5 P75 | 49470 | miles | 2024 | 28380 | |
| Age 6 median | 46823 | miles | 2024 | 27061 | |
| Age 6 P25 | 35577 | miles | 2024 | 27061 | |
| Age 6 P75 | 59898 | miles | 2024 | 27061 | |
| Age 7 median | 56357 | miles | 2024 | 33156 | |
| Age 7 P25 | 43250 | miles | 2024 | 33156 | |
| Age 7 P75 | 72062 | miles | 2024 | 33156 | |
| Age 8 median | 66428 | miles | 2024 | 32176 | |
| Age 8 P25 | 51040 | miles | 2024 | 32176 | |
| Age 8 P75 | 84230 | miles | 2024 | 32176 | |
| Age 9 median | 75051 | miles | 2024 | 31789 | |
| Age 9 P25 | 58085 | miles | 2024 | 31789 | |
| Age 9 P75 | 94215 | miles | 2024 | 31789 | |
| Age 10 median | 84185 | miles | 2024 | 30538 | |
| Age 10 P25 | 65682 | miles | 2024 | 30538 | |
| Age 10 P75 | 104426 | miles | 2024 | 30538 | |
| Age 11 median | 90269 | miles | 2024 | 36435 | |
| Age 11 P25 | 70292 | miles | 2024 | 36435 | |
| Age 11 P75 | 111833 | miles | 2024 | 36435 | |
| Age 12 median | 96236 | miles | 2024 | 28842 | |
| Age 12 P25 | 74554 | miles | 2024 | 28842 | |
| Age 12 P75 | 119318 | miles | 2024 | 28842 | |
| Age 13 median | 101257 | miles | 2024 | 22081 | |
| Age 13 P25 | 77759 | miles | 2024 | 22081 | |
| Age 13 P75 | 126193 | miles | 2024 | 22081 | |
| Age 14 median | 107430 | miles | 2024 | 22497 | |
| Age 14 P25 | 83501 | miles | 2024 | 22497 | |
| Age 14 P75 | 132835 | miles | 2024 | 22497 | |
| Age 15 median | 109008 | miles | 2024 | 19186 | |
| Age 15 P25 | 84155 | miles | 2024 | 19186 | |
| Age 15 P75 | 135489 | miles | 2024 | 19186 | |
| Age 16 median | 113149 | miles | 2024 | 15193 | |
| Age 16 P25 | 88730 | miles | 2024 | 15193 | |
| Age 16 P75 | 139048 | miles | 2024 | 15193 | |
| Age 17 median | 117161 | miles | 2024 | 9829 | |
| Age 17 P25 | 93277 | miles | 2024 | 9829 | |
| Age 17 P75 | 142362 | miles | 2024 | 9829 | |
| Age 18 median | 124881 | miles | 2024 | 8394 | |
| Age 18 P25 | 98299 | miles | 2024 | 8394 | |
| Age 18 P75 | 152647 | miles | 2024 | 8394 | |
| Age 19 median | 128542 | miles | 2024 | 5853 | |
| Age 19 P25 | 100488 | miles | 2024 | 5853 | |
| Age 19 P75 | 159120 | miles | 2024 | 5853 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
At ages 10–14, 13.2% of BMW 1 Series models with under 40,000 miles failed first time, against 37.8% of those with over 140,000 miles (2024, n = 20,713). Inside this age group, higher mileage goes with more failures.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 3–5, <40k miles | 9.8 | % failed first time | 2024 | 51495 | |
| Age 3–5, 40-70k miles | 15 | % failed first time | 2024 | 18837 | |
| Age 3–5, 70-100k miles | 18.2 | % failed first time | 2024 | 2271 | |
| Age 3–5, 100-140k miles (rough estimate: 344 tests, 95% interval 16.4–24.9%) | 20.3 | % failed first time | 2024 | 344 | |
| Age 6–9, <40k miles | 11.1 | % failed first time | 2024 | 22157 | |
| Age 6–9, 40-70k miles | 17.4 | % failed first time | 2024 | 56480 | |
| Age 6–9, 70-100k miles | 22.4 | % failed first time | 2024 | 33035 | |
| Age 6–9, 100-140k miles | 26 | % failed first time | 2024 | 10749 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 6–9, 140k+ miles | 29.6 | % failed first time | 2024 | 1726 | |
| Age 10–14, <40k miles | 13.2 | % failed first time | 2024 | 5236 | |
| Age 10–14, 40-70k miles | 22.1 | % failed first time | 2024 | 26131 | |
| Age 10–14, 70-100k miles | 29.6 | % failed first time | 2024 | 48838 | |
| Age 10–14, 100-140k miles | 34.8 | % failed first time | 2024 | 44654 | |
| Age 10–14, 140k+ miles | 37.8 | % failed first time | 2024 | 15477 | |
| Age 15+, <40k miles | 14.6 | % failed first time | 2024 | 1209 | |
| Age 15+, 40-70k miles | 23.8 | % failed first time | 2024 | 5494 | |
| Age 15+, 70-100k miles | 32.1 | % failed first time | 2024 | 13733 | |
| Age 15+, 100-140k miles | 38.4 | % failed first time | 2024 | 23117 | |
| Age 15+, 140k+ miles | 41.4 | % failed first time | 2024 | 16377 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
24.7% of BMW 1 Series models tested had reached 100,000 miles, and 4.8% had reached 150,000 (2024, n = 554,601).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100,000 miles | 24.7 | % of tested cars | 2024 | 554601 | |
| 150,000 miles | 4.8 | % of tested cars | 2024 | 107278 | |
| 200,000 miles | 0.5 | % of tested cars | 2024 | 10619 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
Matched on annual mileage as well as age, the BMW 1 Series index is 80.7, against 83.9 on age alone (2019–2024, n = 398,575).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age and mileage adjusted index | 80.7 | index | 83.9 | 2019–2024 | 398575 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
Diesel BMW 1 Series models fail first time more often than petrol ones, before allowing for age: 27.9% against 19.3%.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel | 27.9 | % fail first time | other fuels | 2024 | 215099 |
| Petrol | 19.3 | % fail first time | other fuels | 2024 | 183462 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
For its age, the best BMW 1 Series engine is the petrol over 2.0 litre at index 66.2, and the worst the diesel 1.5–1.8 litre at 115.0, where 100 = the model's own average (2024, n = 398,575).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol over 2.0 litre | 66.2 | index vs model norm | 100 = model average | 2024 | 125659 |
| Petrol 1.2–1.5 litre | 90.6 | index vs model norm | 100 = model average | 2024 | 271694 |
| Petrol 1.8–2.0 litre | 91 | index vs model norm | 100 = model average | 2024 | 171635 |
| Diesel over 2.0 litre (rough estimate: 367 tests, 95% interval 78.8–108.2) | 92.8 | index vs model norm | 100 = model average | 2024 | 367 |
| Petrol 1.5–1.8 litre | 95.6 | index vs model norm | 100 = model average | 2024 | 335827 |
| Diesel 1.8–2.0 litre | 105.2 | index vs model norm | 100 = model average | 2024 | 1042077 |
| Diesel 1.2–1.5 litre | 108.3 | index vs model norm | 100 = model average | 2024 | 213716 |
| Diesel 1.5–1.8 litre | 115 | index vs model norm | 100 = model average | 2024 | 89784 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
First-time failure rates for the BMW 1 Series range from 17.6% to 34.7% by area, before allowing for age: a narrower spread than for the typical model.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Llandrindod Wells (LD) | 34.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 1186 |
| Plymouth (PL) | 30.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 26821 |
| Bristol (BS) | 29.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 42042 |
| Bromley (BR) | 17.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 8682 |
| Enfield (EN) | 18.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 16613 |
| Kirkwall (KW) | 18.8 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 537 |
| Torquay (TQ) | 29.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 10906 |
| Salisbury (SP) | 29.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 10449 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exeter (EX) | 29.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 22831 |
| Dundee (DD) | 29.2 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 7270 |
| Portsmouth (PO) | 28.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 30290 |
| Cardiff (CF) | 28.2 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 38955 |
| Kirkcaldy (KY) | 28.0 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 9551 |
| Gloucester (GL) | 27.8 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 27444 |
| Bath (BA) | 27.8 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 17170 |
| Bournemouth (BH) | 27.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 20631 |
| Truro (TR) | 27.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 12445 |
| Newport (NP) | 27.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 23421 |
| Taunton (TA) | 27.2 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 12975 |
| Northampton (NN) | 27.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 27892 |
| Brighton (BN) | 27 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 27127 |
| Swansea (SA) | 26.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 26042 |
| Dorchester (DT) | 26.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 6905 |
| Canterbury (CT) | 26.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 16232 |
| Southampton (SO) | 26.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 26808 |
| Sunderland (SR) | 25.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 5587 |
| Lerwick (ZE) (rough estimate: 129 tests, 95% interval 18.8–33.7%) | 25.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 129 |
| Aberdeen (AB) | 25.5 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 12248 |
| Medway (ME) | 25.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 24389 |
| Hull (HU) | 25.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 14663 |
| Telford (TF) | 25.2 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 7665 |
| Paisley (PA) | 25.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 6676 |
| Lincoln (LN) | 25.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 11539 |
| Tonbridge (TN) | 25.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 24835 |
| Walsall (WS) | 25.0 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 16247 |
| Redhill (RH) | 24.9 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 23784 |
| Colchester (CO) | 24.8 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 15564 |
| Ipswich (IP) | 24.8 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 23705 |
| Darlington (DL) | 24.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 9834 |
| Wolverhampton (WV) | 24.5 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 17402 |
| Watford (WD) | 24.5 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 9926 |
| Edinburgh (EH) | 24.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 23891 |
| Milton Keynes (MK) | 24.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 23691 |
| Oxford (OX) | 24.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 24533 |
| Chester (CH) | 24.2 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 25156 |
| Stoke-on-Trent (ST) | 24.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 23548 |
| Blackpool (FY) | 24.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 11981 |
| Cambridge (CB) | 24.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 14783 |
| Swindon (SN) | 24.0 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 21859 |
| Luton (LU) | 24.0 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 19281 |
| Reading (RG) | 23.9 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 39921 |
| Norwich (NR) | 23.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 24002 |
| Dudley (DY) | 23.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 12666 |
| Guildford (GU) | 23.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 36164 |
| London SW (SW) | 23.5 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 13183 |
| Galashiels (TD) | 23.5 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 2042 |
| Manchester (M) | 23.5 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 41199 |
| Huddersfield (HD) | 23.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 8563 |
| St Albans (AL) | 23.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 8128 |
| Wigan (WN) | 23.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 10666 |
| Peterborough (PE) | 23.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 43613 |
| Lancaster (LA) | 23.2 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 9702 |
| Stockport (SK) | 23.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 25143 |
| Glasgow (G) | 23.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 32616 |
| Leeds (LS) | 23.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 25511 |
| Harrow (HA) | 23.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 14996 |
| Bolton (BL) | 23.0 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 18113 |
| York (YO) | 23 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 17790 |
| Chelmsford (CM) | 22.9 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 26618 |
| Stevenage (SG) | 22.9 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 16483 |
| Romford (RM) | 22.9 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 20655 |
| Cleveland (TS) | 22.9 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 17995 |
| Preston (PR) | 22.8 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 24395 |
| London N (N) | 22.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 16911 |
| Croydon (CR) | 22.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 17833 |
| Kilmarnock (KA) | 22.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 10395 |
| Llandudno (LL) | 22.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 19800 |
| Worcester (WR) | 22.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 12670 |
| Crewe (CW) | 22.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 13649 |
| Hemel Hempstead (HP) | 22.5 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 23611 |
| Bradford (BD) | 22.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 16863 |
| London E (E) | 22.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 20413 |
| Leicester (LE) | 22.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 44797 |
| Southend-on-Sea (SS) | 22.2 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 19788 |
| London SE (SE) | 22.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 23953 |
| Dartford (DA) | 21.9 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 17209 |
| Derby (DE) | 21.9 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 29863 |
| Shrewsbury (SY) | 21.9 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 13618 |
| Halifax (HX) | 21.8 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 5077 |
| Warrington (WA) | 21.8 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 26505 |
| Coventry (CV) | 21.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 38405 |
| Perth (PH) | 21.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 4015 |
| Birmingham (B) | 21.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 78756 |
| Harrogate (HG) | 21.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 5550 |
| Sheffield (S) | 21.6 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 45974 |
| Doncaster (DN) | 21.5 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 29212 |
| Falkirk (FK) | 21.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 8054 |
| London W (W) | 21.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 7004 |
| Nottingham (NG) | 21.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 50485 |
| Motherwell (ML) | 21.2 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 9940 |
| Ilford (IG) | 21.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 13590 |
| Hereford (HR) | 21.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 7723 |
| Liverpool (L) | 21.1 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 24832 |
| Oldham (OL) | 21.0 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 16935 |
| Slough (SL) | 20.8 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 21946 |
| Sutton (SM) | 20.8 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 5388 |
| Blackburn (BB) | 20.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 22240 |
| Outer Hebrides (HS) (rough estimate: 305 tests, 95% interval 16.5–25.6%) | 20.7 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 305 |
| Uxbridge (UB) | 20.5 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 17678 |
| Carlisle (CA) | 20.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 10809 |
| London NW (NW) | 20.4 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 17075 |
| Newcastle (NE) | 20.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 32026 |
| Wakefield (WF) | 20.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 20840 |
| Twickenham (TW) | 20.3 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 18963 |
| Kingston upon Thames (KT) | 20 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 20141 |
| Inverness (IV) | 19.9 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 4754 |
| Dumfries (DG) | 19.2 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 3854 |
| Durham (DH) | 19.0 | % fail first time | 23.9 | 2024 | 8175 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
Allowing for age, BMW 1 Series MOTs record corrosion failures at 0.5 times the national rate: 0.4% of tests against 0.77% (2024 + geographic layers, n = 398,575).
Computed, not measured.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salt belt susceptibility | 0.5 | ratio estimate | 1 | 2024 + geographic layers | 398575 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 + geographic layers · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
An estimated 63.3% of BMW 1 Series models tested are likely ULEZ-compliant, judged from fuel type and first-use date; check a specific car with TfL's vehicle checker (2024).
Computed, not measured.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Likely compliant | 63.3 | % estimate | 2024 | 398575 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
Of failed BMW 1 Series MOTs, 42.8% were retested the same day and a further 54.5% within 10 days; the median failed car passed its retest after 1 day (2019–2024, n = 379,551).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Same-day retest | 42.8 | % | failed initial tests | 2019–2024 | 379551 |
| Retest within 10 days | 54.5 | % | failed initial tests | 2019–2024 | 379551 |
| Clean MOT streak | 40.0 | % | observed chains | 2019–2024 | 402537 |
| Repeat advisory | 27.0 | % | observed chains | 2019–2024 | 402537 |
| Decreasing odometer | 0.8 | % mileage anomaly | observed chains | 2019–2024 | 438962 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
BMW 1 Series models aged 5 to 14 doing under 5,000 miles a year failed first time in 14.3% of tests, against 27.7% for those doing 8,000 to 12,000 miles (2019–2024, n = 197,198).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low-use first-time failure | 14.3 | % | 27.7 | 2019–2024 | 197198 |
| Low-use gap | -13.3 | percentage points | 8–12k miles | 2019–2024 | 197198 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
BMW 1 Series models leave the road sooner than most: at ten years old the typical one has about 4.7 more years of MOTs ahead. This is a forecast from the survival curve and may not come true.
Computed, not measured.
Forecast, not a prediction for a particular car.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 5 | 9.4 | years forecast | survival forecast | 0 | |
| Age 8 | 6.3 | years forecast | survival forecast | 0 | |
| Age 10 | 4.7 | years forecast | survival forecast | 0 | |
| Age 12 | 3.5 | years forecast | survival forecast | 0 | |
| Age 15 (at least; observed only until age 19) | 1.9 | years forecast | survival forecast | 0 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: survival forecast · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
In 2024, for every 100 BMW 1 Series models tested at ages 4 to 6, about 4 were tested at age 19 (2024, n = 7,945).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 3 | 95.7 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 180663 | |
| Age 4 | 96.3 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 181936 | |
| Age 5 | 99.2 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 187339 | |
| Age 6 (at least as many as at ages 4–6) | 100 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 197299 | |
| Age 7 (at least as many as at ages 4–6) | 100 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 200293 | |
| Age 8 (at least as many as at ages 4–6) | 100 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 191355 | |
| Age 9 | 98.7 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 186345 | |
| Age 10 | 93.8 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 177210 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 11 | 88.4 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 166888 | |
| Age 12 | 75.8 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 143116 | |
| Age 13 | 65.8 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 124232 | |
| Age 14 | 57.7 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 108908 | |
| Age 15 | 43.3 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 81804 | |
| Age 16 | 28.8 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 54461 | |
| Age 17 | 17.5 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 32984 | |
| Age 18 | 9.9 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 18706 | |
| Age 19 | 4.2 | % of age 4–6 baseline | 2024 | 7945 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
BMW 1 Series models that fail once are much more likely to fail again: 31.4% failed the next MOT after a fail, against 21.2% after a pass (test chains 2019–2024). The failure most likely to come back is ‘lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment’: 33.1% of those fails recurred at the next MOT.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Repeat after fail | 31.4 | % | 21.2 | 2019–2024 | 114065 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
On BMW 1 Series models, ‘body, chassis, structure’ and ‘noise, emissions and leaks’ failures turn up together 11.7 times as often as chance would predict (2024, n = 4,763).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body, chassis, structure + Noise, emissions and leaks | 11.7 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 4763 |
| Body, chassis, structure + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems | 7.8 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 1421 |
| Noise, emissions and leaks + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems | 7.5 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 2095 |
| Identification of the vehicle + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 385 tests, 95% interval 6.4–7.9) | 7.1 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 385 |
| Road Wheels + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems | 6.9 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 906 |
| Brakes + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems | 6.1 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 5725 |
| Body, chassis, structure + Suspension | 6.1 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 6992 |
| Body, chassis, structure + Identification of the vehicle (rough estimate: 478 tests, 95% interval 5.5–6.6) | 6.0 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 478 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Steering | 5.9 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 567 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems | 5.8 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 6748 |
| Identification of the vehicle + Road Wheels (rough estimate: 313 tests, 95% interval 5.0–6.2) | 5.5 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 313 |
| Body, chassis, structure + Brakes | 5.5 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 7541 |
| Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Suspension | 5.4 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 4260 |
| Identification of the vehicle + Noise, emissions and leaks | 5.3 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 643 |
| Body, chassis, structure + Road Wheels | 5.2 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 995 |
| Body, chassis, structure + Steering | 5.0 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 711 |
| Body, chassis, structure + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment | 5.0 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 8479 |
| Steering + Suspension | 4.9 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 3017 |
| Brakes + Noise, emissions and leaks | 4.9 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 10160 |
| Identification of the vehicle + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment | 4.8 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 2391 |
| Noise, emissions and leaks + Road Wheels | 4.7 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 1362 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Seat belt installation check (rough estimate: 35 tests, 95% interval 3.3–6.5) | 4.7 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 35 |
| Brakes + Suspension | 4.6 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 27154 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Road Wheels | 4.6 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 5551 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Noise, emissions and leaks | 4.5 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 11501 |
| Noise, emissions and leaks + Suspension | 4.4 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 7710 |
| Brakes + Speedometer and speed limiter (rough estimate: 25 tests, 95% interval 2.8–6.5) | 4.4 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 25 |
| Road Wheels + Steering (rough estimate: 430 tests, 95% interval 3.9–4.7) | 4.3 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 430 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Speedometer and speed limiter (rough estimate: 30 tests, 95% interval 2.9–6.0) | 4.2 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 30 |
| Brakes + Identification of the vehicle | 4.2 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 1705 |
| Brakes + Steering | 4.1 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 3001 |
| Brakes + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment | 4.1 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 35774 |
| Brakes + Road Wheels | 4.1 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 3992 |
| Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Visibility | 4.1 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 4363 |
| Identification of the vehicle + Suspension | 4.0 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 1375 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Suspension | 4 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 29406 |
| Identification of the vehicle + Steering (rough estimate: 166 tests, 95% interval 3.4–4.6) | 4.0 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 166 |
| Road Wheels + Suspension | 3.9 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 3233 |
| Noise, emissions and leaks + Steering | 3.9 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 825 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Steering | 3.8 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 3383 |
| Road Wheels + Tyres | 3.7 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 4721 |
| Seat belt installation check + Tyres (rough estimate: 29 tests, 95% interval 2.4–5.2) | 3.6 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 29 |
| Body, chassis, structure + Visibility | 3.6 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 5618 |
| Identification of the vehicle + Visibility | 3.5 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 1639 |
| Identification of the vehicle + Tyres | 3.4 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 1820 |
| Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Tyres | 3.3 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 4084 |
| Noise, emissions and leaks + Visibility | 3.3 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 7780 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Visibility | 3.2 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 32028 |
| Body, chassis, structure + Tyres | 3.1 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 5673 |
| Brakes + Tyres | 3.0 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 28211 |
| Road Wheels + Visibility | 3.0 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 3385 |
| Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Tyres | 3.0 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 34416 |
| Brakes + Visibility | 3.0 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 23775 |
| Noise, emissions and leaks + Tyres | 2.9 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 8014 |
| Suspension + Visibility | 2.8 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 18956 |
| Suspension + Tyres | 2.7 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 20806 |
| Steering + Visibility | 2.6 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 2181 |
| Steering + Tyres | 2.5 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 2371 |
| Tyres + Visibility | 2.3 | lift | expected joint rate | 2024 | 24651 |
| Brakes + Seat belt installation check (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 19 | tests with both | 2024 | 19 | |
| Seat belt installation check + Visibility (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 18 | tests with both | 2024 | 18 | |
| Seat belt installation check + Suspension (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 17 | tests with both | 2024 | 17 | |
| Speedometer and speed limiter + Tyres (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 16 | tests with both | 2024 | 16 | |
| Speedometer and speed limiter + Visibility (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 13 | tests with both | 2024 | 13 | |
| Speedometer and speed limiter + Suspension (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 12 | tests with both | 2024 | 12 | |
| Seat belt installation check + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 11 | tests with both | 2024 | 11 | |
| Noise, emissions and leaks + Speedometer and speed limiter (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 8 | tests with both | 2024 | 8 | |
| Noise, emissions and leaks + Seat belt installation check (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 8 | tests with both | 2024 | 8 | |
| Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Speedometer and speed limiter (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 7 | tests with both | 2024 | 7 | |
| Body, chassis, structure + Seat belt installation check (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 7 | tests with both | 2024 | 7 | |
| Body, chassis, structure + Speedometer and speed limiter (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 6 | tests with both | 2024 | 6 | |
| Road Wheels + Seat belt installation check (seen together; too few for a multiplier) | 5 | tests with both | 2024 | 5 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
DVSA lists 69 safety recall campaigns matched to the BMW 1 Series; check whether yours has been fixed, using its registration number.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DVSA recall campaigns matched | 69 | campaigns | DVSA register | DVSA register | 398575 |
Source: DVSA register; recall effect covers 11 of 761 models · Window: DVSA register · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
Of every 100 BMW 1 Series models tested at age 5, about 14 failed the MOT first time; at age 10, about 26. These are one-year rates for different cars tested in the same year, not a fleet followed over time; the steepest one-year step in this cross-section is between cars aged 9 and 10, 4.06 percentage points (2024).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 3 | 9.8 | % fail first time | 2024 | 19795 | |
| Age 4 | 10.5 | % fail first time | 2024 | 24808 | |
| Age 5 | 13.5 | % fail first time | 2024 | 28380 | |
| Age 6 | 15.6 | % fail first time | 2024 | 27061 | |
| Age 7 | 16.7 | % fail first time | 2024 | 33156 | |
| Age 8 | 19.6 | % fail first time | 2024 | 32176 | |
| Age 9 | 21.8 | % fail first time | 2024 | 31789 | |
| Age 10 | 25.9 | % fail first time | 2024 | 30538 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age 11 | 28.3 | % fail first time | 2024 | 36435 | |
| Age 12 | 32.4 | % fail first time | 2024 | 28842 | |
| Age 13 | 32.6 | % fail first time | 2024 | 22081 | |
| Age 14 | 33.6 | % fail first time | 2024 | 22497 | |
| Age 15 | 34.6 | % fail first time | 2024 | 19186 | |
| Age 16 | 35.0 | % fail first time | 2024 | 15193 | |
| Age 17 | 35.9 | % fail first time | 2024 | 9829 | |
| Age 18 | 38.5 | % fail first time | 2024 | 8394 | |
| Age 19 | 39.1 | % fail first time | 2024 | 5853 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
In Finland, 26.7% of BMW 1 Series models failed their periodic roadworthiness inspection, against 26.3% for all cars there (2024 by country, n = 8,625 inspections).
Both readings are shown: this comparison changes when usage or inspection rules differ.
Inspections abroad disagree: the Netherlands point the same way as Britain, Finland do not. Test rules, climate and how the vehicles are used differ, so both readings are shown.
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finland | 26.7 | % failed | 26.3 | 2024 by country | 8625 |
| Netherlands | 43.9 | % failed | 50.8 | 2024 by country | 726 |
Source: Statens vegvesen PKK (CC BY 4.0), Traficom Katsastus (CC BY 4.0), RDW APK (CC0), adapted; covers 430 of 761 models · Window: 2024 by country · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV · licences and full notice
BMW 1 Series models fail first time most in January (25.2%, against 31.1% for all cars that month) and least in June (22.1%) (2024, n = 398,575).
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 25.2 | % fail first time | 31.1 | 2024 | 202190 |
| February | 24.8 | % fail first time | 30.0 | 2024 | 183099 |
| March | 23.2 | % fail first time | 28.3 | 2024 | 215753 |
| April | 24.6 | % fail first time | 29.8 | 2024 | 125796 |
| May | 23.1 | % fail first time | 28.8 | 2024 | 138644 |
| June | 22.1 | % fail first time | 28.1 | 2024 | 165313 |
| July | 23.4 | % fail first time | 29.3 | 2024 | 168921 |
| August | 23.2 | % fail first time | 29.2 | 2024 | 186609 |
| Measure | Value | Unit | Compared with | Years | Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| September | 22.4 | % fail first time | 28.2 | 2024 | 229333 |
| October | 24.1 | % fail first time | 30.3 | 2024 | 238468 |
| November | 24.5 | % fail first time | 30.6 | 2024 | 225878 |
| December | 23.9 | % fail first time | 29.3 | 2024 | 172057 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
layer not yet computed for this model (covers 211 of 761 models). 398,575 initial BMW 1 Series tests are in the published model cohort.
Source: NHTSA, US market; covers 211 of 761 models · Window: NHTSA · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
layer not yet computed for this model (covers 211 of 761 models). 398,575 initial BMW 1 Series tests are in the published model cohort.
Source: NHTSA, US market; covers 211 of 761 models · Window: NHTSA + 2024 · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
layer not yet computed for this model (covers 19 of 761 models). 398,575 initial BMW 1 Series tests are in the published model cohort.
Source: European Commission OBFCM; covers 19 of 761 models · Window: 2021+ cohorts · n = 398,575 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
MOT Risk Index (2026). BMW 1 Series MOT statistics 2024 (data release dvsa-2024-v2; full dataset motriskindex-families-2024-v5, DOI 10.5281/zenodo.22975051), updated 24 September 2026. motriskindex.co.uk/cars/bmw-1-series/
How the MOT Risk Index and every figure on this page are calculated: methodology.
What is wrong on this page? One tap sends the category only, no text and nothing about you.
76.1% of first attempts passed in 2024 (398,575 tests). Retests after repair are excluded; cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) are shown separately.
Other sites may count retests or all attempts. This page uses 398,575 primary tests: 23.92% failed first time and 81.0% passed when cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) count as passes. The age-adjusted MOT Risk Index 85 is shown separately.