BMW 125 Buying Guide & Reliability (2008-2018)

BMW 125 Overview The BMW 125 is a compact car that was produced between 2008 and 2018, showcasing a blend of performance and practicality. With a total of 65 registration plates recorded, this model has made a notable impact in the UK automotive market.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

BMW 125 Overview

BMW 125 Overview

The BMW 125 is a compact car that was produced between 2008 and 2018, showcasing a blend of performance and practicality. With a total of 65 registration plates recorded, this model has made a notable impact in the UK automotive market.

In terms of reliability, the BMW 125 boasts a respectable MOT pass rate of 81.7%. However, it is essential to be aware of common failures that may arise. The most frequent issues reported include problems categorised as 'Other' (8 instances), followed by tyre-related failures (6), brake issues (5), suspension troubles (4), and lighting faults (3).

The fuel type distribution for the BMW 125 indicates a slight preference for diesel, with 34 diesel vehicles compared to 31 petrol variants. This balance reflects the diverse needs of drivers, catering to both performance enthusiasts and those seeking fuel efficiency.

Colour preferences among BMW 125 owners show a clear trend, with white being the most popular choice (21 vehicles), followed by black (15), blue (10), grey (9), and silver (7). This variety allows potential buyers to select a model that suits their aesthetic preferences.

Examining the year distribution, the BMW 125 saw its highest number of registrations in 2015 (11 vehicles), with a gradual decline in subsequent years. The latest registration plates include numbers such as 12664652 and 12317618, indicating ongoing interest in this model.

Regarding tax status, 53 of the registered vehicles are currently taxed, while 10 are untaxed and 2 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). The average annual mileage for the BMW 125 stands at 7,070 miles, suggesting a moderate usage pattern among owners.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and the statistics presented here are based on the latest available information.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The BMW 125, produced between 2008 and 2018, has a commendable MOT pass rate of 81.7%. This statistic indicates that the majority of vehicles in this model range successfully meet the required safety and environmental standards during their annual inspections.

In total, 652 MOT tests have been conducted on the BMW 125, revealing some common areas where failures occur. The most frequent issues are categorised as 'Other', accounting for 8 failures, followed by tyres with 6, brakes with 5, suspension with 4, and lighting with 3. These figures suggest that while the BMW 125 is generally reliable, owners should pay attention to these specific areas to ensure optimal performance.

When examining the fuel type distribution, it is noteworthy that 34 of the registered vehicles are diesel, while 31 are petrol. This balance provides potential buyers with options depending on their fuel preference and driving habits.

In terms of colour, the most popular choices among BMW 125 owners are white (21), black (15), and blue (10), reflecting a diverse range of aesthetic preferences. The model's age distribution shows a significant number of vehicles from 2015 (11) and 2016 (10), indicating that many owners opt for relatively newer models.

Regarding tax status, 53 of the registered vehicles are currently taxed, while 10 are untaxed and 2 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This data highlights the active use of the BMW 125 on UK roads.

It is important to note that the statistics presented are based on available data and may not reflect the complete picture of the BMW 125's reliability and MOT performance. Prospective buyers should consider these factors alongside their own research.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering a used BMW 125, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure you make a sound investment. With a total of 65 registration plates recorded, this model has been popular among buyers since its introduction in 2008.

First, check the vehicle's MOT history. The BMW 125 has an MOT pass rate of 81.7%, which indicates a relatively good reliability record. However, be aware of common failures that have been reported. The most frequent issues include problems categorised as 'Other' (8 instances), followed by tyres (6), brakes (5), suspension (4), and lighting (3). These areas should be thoroughly inspected during your assessment.

Next, consider the fuel type. The BMW 125 is available in both diesel (34%) and petrol (31%), so choose the variant that best suits your driving needs. Additionally, the colour distribution shows that white (21), black (15), and blue (10) are the most common colours, which may influence your choice based on personal preference.

It's also important to review the vehicle's tax status. Out of the 65 vehicles, 53 are currently taxed, while 10 are untaxed and 2 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This information can help you understand the vehicle's current legal standing.

Lastly, consider the average annual mileage, which stands at 7,070 miles. This figure can provide insight into the vehicle's usage and potential wear and tear. Always request a full service history to verify maintenance records.

In summary, when buying a used BMW 125, focus on the MOT history, common failures, fuel type, tax status, and mileage. This data-driven approach will help you make an informed decision.

Disclaimer: The statistics provided are based on available data and may not reflect the current market situation. Always verify details with the seller.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The BMW 125, produced between 2008 and 2018, offers a blend of performance and efficiency that appeals to a wide range of drivers. With a total of 65 registration plates recorded, this model has established a solid presence in the UK automotive market.

In terms of running costs, the average annual mileage for the BMW 125 is approximately 7,070 miles. This figure can help potential owners estimate fuel expenses and maintenance schedules. The model features a diverse fuel type distribution, with 34% of vehicles running on diesel and 31% on petrol, catering to different preferences and driving needs.

The MOT pass rate for the BMW 125 stands at 81.7%, indicating a relatively reliable performance in terms of roadworthiness. However, common failures have been noted, with issues primarily in categories such as 'Other' (8 failures), tyres (6 failures), brakes (5 failures), suspension (4 failures), and lighting (3 failures). These statistics highlight areas where owners may need to focus their maintenance efforts.

Colour preferences for the BMW 125 show a predominance of white (21 vehicles), followed by black (15), blue (10), grey (9), and silver (7). This variety allows buyers to choose a model that suits their aesthetic preferences.

Tax status data reveals that 53 of the registered vehicles are taxed, while 10 are untaxed and 2 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This information is crucial for potential buyers to consider when evaluating the overall cost of ownership.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current market conditions. Always verify details with reliable sources before making any purchasing decisions.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the BMW 125, it’s worth exploring some alternative models that may suit your needs. The BMW 125 has a solid reputation, but there are other vehicles in the same category that offer similar features and performance.

One alternative to consider is the Audi A3, which is known for its premium interior and advanced technology. Like the BMW 125, the A3 is available in both petrol and diesel variants, catering to different driving preferences. Additionally, the A3 has a strong reliability record, making it a popular choice among compact car buyers.

Another option is the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. This model combines style with practicality, offering a comfortable ride and a range of efficient engines. The A-Class also boasts a high-quality interior and a suite of safety features, appealing to those who prioritise comfort and technology.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Ford Focus is a commendable alternative. It offers a spacious interior and a variety of engine choices, including efficient petrol and diesel options. The Focus is also known for its engaging driving dynamics, making it a fun choice for enthusiasts.

When comparing these alternatives, it’s important to consider factors such as maintenance costs and reliability. The BMW 125 has an MOT pass rate of 81.7%, with common failures including issues with tyres, brakes, and suspension. Understanding these aspects can help you make an informed decision.

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Be sure to test drive any model you’re considering to ensure it meets your expectations.

Disclaimer: The data provided is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current market conditions. Always verify details with a trusted source before making a purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What years was the BMW 125 produced?

The BMW 125 was manufactured between 2008 and 2018. This model spans a decade, offering a variety of features and specifications across its production years.

What is the MOT pass rate for the BMW 125?

The BMW 125 has an MOT pass rate of 81.7%. This statistic indicates a relatively high level of reliability and compliance with UK road safety standards.

What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common failures for the BMW 125 include issues related to tyres (6 failures), brakes (5 failures), and suspension (4 failures). Additionally, there are 8 failures categorised as 'Other' and 3 related to lighting.

What fuel types are available for the BMW 125?

The BMW 125 is available in both diesel and petrol variants, with a distribution of 34 diesel vehicles and 31 petrol vehicles. This allows buyers to choose based on their fuel preference and driving needs.

What colours are most popular for the BMW 125?

In terms of colour distribution, the most common colours for the BMW 125 are white (21 vehicles), black (15 vehicles), and blue (10 vehicles). Other colours include grey and silver, with 9 and 7 vehicles respectively.

How many BMW 125 vehicles are currently taxed?

Out of the 65 registered BMW 125 vehicles, 53 are currently taxed, while 10 are untaxed and 2 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification).

Disclaimer: The data presented here is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current information. Always verify details with official sources.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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