1990 BMW 3 SERIES2.0L PETROL

The most recent MOT on 2025-08-04 recorded a PASS with two minor issues: light oil misting on the offside front shock absorber (5.3.2 (b)) and worn anti-roll bar linkage bushes on both rear sides (5.3.4 (a) (i)). These were not classified as failures, but the recurring shock absorber issue since 2022 raises concerns. The offside front shock absorber has shown light oil misting in five consecutive MOTs from 2022 to 2025. In 2023, this was explicitly advised to be replaced “ASAP,” yet no repair record is noted. The persistence of this defect suggests either ongoing leakage or incomplete repairs. While not immediately critical, continued oil seepage could indicate internal wear, potentially leading to suspension failure or reduced handling. The trend for shock absorber issues appears stable, not worsening, but the lack of resolution over four years is troubling. The 2022 MOT included a separate failure for excessive CO emissions, which was addressed by 2023. No further emissions-related issues were recorded, indicating this may have been a one-off problem. The vehicle’s mileage of 99,689 miles at 36 years old equates to roughly 2,769 miles per year—a low figure for its age.