2012 BMW M3 4.0L Petrol · 4 XEA
2012 BMW M3 (4.0L, petrol). First registered 29 Nov 2012. Recorded mileage 89,895 miles. MOT valid until 23 Oct 2026. A manufacturer safety recall is currently outstanding.
- Make & Model
- BMW M3
- Year / Origin
- 2012
- Safety Recall
- Recall Notice
- MOT Status
- Valid until 23 Oct 2026
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 89,895 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 4.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Outstanding Safety Recall Notice
Action RequiredOfficial DVSA telemetry indicates this vehicle has an unaddressed manufacturer safety recall. Remedial repairs are legally required to be carried out 100% free of charge by an authorised main dealer.
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.
4 XEA Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Outstanding manufacturer safety recall notice
- Latest MOT passed on 20/10/2025
- 89,895 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 7 defects noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
4 XEA MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 BMW M3 (4 XEA) between October 2022 and October 2025.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 20 October 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (10 issues), Brakes (6 issues), Windscreen (5 issues), Tyres (4 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 23 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: “Front Brake disc significantly and obviously worn (1.1.14 (a) (i))”; “Nearside Front Side repeater not working (4.4.1 (a) (ii))”.
4 XEA Mileage History
- 24/10/202273,268 mi
- 24/10/202379,012 mi+5,744 mi
- 25/10/202379,014 mi+2 mi
- 18/10/202484,737 mi+5,723 mi
- 20/10/202589,895 mi+5,158 mi
Average of roughly 5,561 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for BMW M3
Our database tracks 6 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: 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.
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Digital Service History
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Common Problems: BMW M3
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- Rod Bearing Wear(Serious)
S54 and S65 cars are well known for rod-bearing wear, especially if oil changes have been stretched or the cars have seen regular track use. Left too long, the engine can destroy itself.
- Throttle Actuator Failure(Serious)
The V8 M3 uses electric throttle actuators that fail with age and heat, putting the car into limp mode. Many cars have already had one or both done.
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BMW M3 Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
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Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2012 model year cars.
- Rod Bearing WearSerious
S54 and S65 cars are well known for rod-bearing wear, especially if oil changes have been stretched or the cars have seen regular track use. Left too long, the engine can destroy itself.
- Throttle Actuator FailureSerious
The V8 M3 uses electric throttle actuators that fail with age and heat, putting the car into limp mode. Many cars have already had one or both done.
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