2001 BMW Z3 2.2L Petrol · 220 BMW
2001 BMW Z3 (2.2L, petrol). First registered 01 Sept 2001. Recorded mileage 105,289 miles. MOT expired on 16 Apr 2026. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- BMW Z3
- Year / Origin
- 2001
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 16 Apr 2026
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 105,289 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 2.2L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
220 BMW Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT failed on 25/04/2026
- 105,289 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 4 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
220 BMW MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 BMW Z3 (220 BMW) between October 2022 and April 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 25 April 2026 was a fail; the vehicle has not passed its last recorded MOT.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 4 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Offside Front Suspension arm ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))”.
220 BMW Mileage History
- 12/10/2022104,715 mi
- 08/04/2024104,715 mi
- 18/04/2025104,907 mi+192 mi
- 25/04/2026105,289 mi+382 mi
Average of roughly 162 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for BMW Z3 (E36/7)
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Exercise caution before purchasing this
When viewing this specific 2.2L petrol Z3, prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension. The most recent MOT failure specifically identified a worn offside front suspension arm pin/bush and a faulty ball joint dust cover. You should negotiate the purchase price to account for these necessary repairs and the ongoing oil leak noted in both 2025 and 2026.
Request documentation regarding the 'undersealed' status mentioned in the 2026 MOT, as this can sometimes mask underlying corrosion. Given the age of this 2001 model, verify if the oil leak is a minor gasket issue or something more significant, as it has been a recurring advisory/failure point for two consecutive years.
As a 2171cc petrol roadster, running costs will be higher than a standard hatchback. Expect moderate fuel consumption consistent with a 2.2L engine and higher-than-average insurance groups typical for a BMW sports car.
Maintenance costs may be elevated due to the age of the vehicle and the recent suspension failures. While the annual mileage for this model is statistically low at 1,571 miles, the cost of parts for a specialist roadster can be higher than for a mass-market saloon. Estimated annual running costs are approximately £1,200-£1,500, including fuel, tax, and maintenance.
Focus heavily on the offside front suspension area. The 2026 MOT failure specifically highlighted a worn suspension arm pin/bush and a compromised ball joint dust cover; ensure these have been replaced with high-quality parts rather than a quick fix.
Additionally, inspect the engine bay for signs of the reported oil leak. Since this has been noted in two separate MOT tests (2025 and 2026), it is a persistent issue that needs addressing. Finally, check the underside of the car; while the MOT noted it was 'undersealed', you should ensure this hasn't been used to hide significant rust on the chassis or subframes.
This 2001 BMW Z3, finished in silver, has covered 105,289 miles as of its most recent test. The MOT history shows a pattern of stability between 2022 and 2024, but the most recent test in April 2026 resulted in a failure. The vehicle has recorded two instances of non-excessive engine oil leaks and recent suspension-related defects.
Aggregate data from 16,259 vehicles shows a 77.2% average MOT pass rate for this model, with common failures involving exhausts, headlamps, and tyres.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2001 model year cars.
- Boot Floor TearingSerious
The single rear differential ear mount applies high twisting torque directly to the thin boot floor crossmember. Spot welds pop and the sheet metal tears away, presenting a severe structural failure risk.
- Cooling System FailureSerious
Sharing E36 architecture, the M43, M44, M52, and M54 engines are prone to plastic radiator neck breakage, thermostat housing warping, and plastic water pump impeller detachment, leading to rapid overheating.
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