2006 BMW 3 Series 3.0L Diesel · W31 WEL

The 2025‑11‑19 MOT at 255,547 miles recorded a pass with no defects, confirming that the BMW 3 Series is presently roadworthy; the maintenance trend over the last three annual tests is stable, as each successive inspection has produced no new failures. Mileage has risen from 120,476 miles in November 2016 to 255,547 miles in November 2025, an average of about 12,777 miles per year, which is high for a 20‑year‑old vehicle and suggests extensive use of consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension parts; the record shows a continuous yearly testing schedule with no long gaps, indicating that the car has been kept in regular circulation rather than stored for long periods. Recurring faults point to areas that merit close inspection: the rear coil spring showed corrosion in 2023, and both rear and front suspension arm pins or bushes have exhibited wear since 2021, while the 2021 test noted slight play in the front lower suspension ball joints; tyre wear has been a persistent issue, with inner‑shoulder wear on the near‑side rear tyre in 2015, a cut on the near‑side front tyre in 2014, and repeated warnings of near‑legal tread depth on multiple occasions; the 2017 MOT also flagged thin front brake pads and a light oil mist on the shock absorbers, and the 2018 test recorded an oil leak that was not excessive. A buyer should therefore examine the condition of the suspension components for corrosion and excessive movement, verify that the rear coil spring is free of rust and that the arm bushings are intact, inspect the tyres for uneven wear patterns and any cuts or bald edges, check the brake discs and pads for wear beyond the minimum thickness, assess the shock absorbers for oil leakage, and confirm that all previously noted advisories have been fully remedied before purchase.