2018 BMW I3 Electricity · AB18 MRB

The most recent MOT test completed on 24 August 2026 resulted in a pass, but the overall maintenance trend indicates a gradual increase in age-related advisories. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent passing record since 2021, the recent emergence of multiple advisories suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase where component degradation is becoming more prevalent. The trend is not necessarily worsening in terms of immediate mechanical failure, but it is moving away from the pristine status seen in previous years toward a more typical profile for an eight-year-old vehicle. With a recorded mileage of 38,110 miles, the vehicle has covered approximately 4,764 miles per year, which is exceptionally low for its age. This low-usage profile suggests the car has been used primarily for short trips or has spent significant time stationary. While this typically means less mechanical wear on the motor and drivetrain, it can lead to secondary issues such as the hardening of rubber seals, degradation of suspension bushes, and the perishing of tyre sidewalls. It is vital to ensure that the low mileage has not come at the expense of regular mechanical movement, which is necessary to prevent fluid stagnation and component seizure. Specific attention must be paid to the recurring advisories regarding tyre condition and the new mechanical advisories. The repeated notes of cracking and perishing on the tyres since 2022 indicate that the rubber is reaching the end of its safe service life due to age rather than tread wear; inspect the sidewalls closely for any deep fissures. The advisory for a distorted nearside rear wheel suggests a possible previous impact, so you should check for any lateral movement or vibration through the chassis during the test drive. Additionally, the corroded offside front coil spring is a priority item; a failed spring can cause significant suspension noise, such as clunks or knocks, and can compromise the vehicle's handling and structural integrity. Finally, the history of pitted and scored brake discs, combined with the low annual mileage, necessitates a thorough inspection of the braking system. Low-use vehicles are prone to brake disc corrosion and binding calipers caused by moisture and a lack of regular heat cycles. During your inspection, check for any uneven tyre wear which could indicate alignment issues following the wheel distortion, and listen for any metallic scraping or grinding when applying the brakes. You should also confirm that the service history includes calendar-based fluid changes, particularly for the brake fluid and cooling systems, as these are essential for maintaining the vehicle's electronic and mechanical systems regardless of the low mileage recorded.