2004 BMW 1 Series 2.0L Petrol · AE54 XZN
2004 BMW 1 Series (2.0L, petrol). First registered 01 Sept 2004. Recorded mileage 82,759 miles. MOT valid until 28 Jan 2027. Taxed until 01 May 2027.
- Make & Model
- BMW 1 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 2004 · Peterborough
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 28 Jan 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 May 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 82,759 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
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.
AE54 XZN Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 23/01/2026
- 82,759 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 13 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (8 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
AE54 XZN 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 2004 BMW 1 Series (AE54 XZN) between January 2024 and January 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 23 January 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (8 issues), Suspension (6 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (4 issues), Tyres (4 issues), Lighting (3 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 28 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: “Emissions unable to be completed Aborted due to overheating (8.2.1.2 (d))”; “Supplementary restraint system warning lamp indicates a fault (7.1.6 (a))”; “Exhaust carbon monoxide content after 2nd fast idle exceeds default limits see sheet (8.2.1.2 (b))”.
AE54 XZN Mileage History
- 25/01/202475,718 mi
- 15/01/202579,842 mi+4,124 mi
- 29/01/202579,961 mi+119 mi
- 23/01/202682,759 mi+2,798 mi
- 23/01/202682,759 mi
Average of roughly 3,527 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 1 Series (E81/E82/E87/E88)
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
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
This 2004 BMW 1 Series is a sensible option for those seeking a lower-mileage petrol example. While the MOT history shows some recent failures, the lack of recorded defects suggests these were minor issues that were promptly rectified.
When inspecting this specific 2004 BMW, you should request documentation to confirm what caused the failures in January 2025 and January 2026, as the MOT certificates themselves do not list the specific defect types. Even though the certificates show 'No defects recorded' upon passing, knowing what was repaired will give you confidence in the vehicle's upkeep.
Given the age of this vehicle, check for any signs of common BMW wear and tear, such as suspension component degradation or tyre condition, which are noted as top failure reasons for this model aggregate. Ensure the 2.0L petrol engine has been regularly checked for fluid leaks, and verify that the service intervals have been adhered to, even if not explicitly detailed in the MOT history.
As a 2.0L petrol model, running costs will be moderate. Fuel economy for this era of 1 Series is typically average for a premium hatchback, though actual figures will depend on driving style and maintenance.
Insurance groups for 2004 BMWs can vary significantly depending on the driver's profile, so obtain a quote beforehand. Maintenance costs should be budgeted for, particularly regarding suspension and tyres, which are statistically common failure points for this model. Expect an estimated annual running cost in the range of £1,100-£1,400 including fuel, tax, and routine maintenance.
Focus your inspection on the underside of the vehicle. The model aggregate data identifies tyres and suspension arms as the most frequent MOT failure reasons for this vehicle type; therefore, check the tread depth, sidewall condition, and look for any play in the suspension components.
Additionally, because this vehicle has seen two failures in the last two years (2025 and 2026), ask the seller for the specific repair invoices associated with those MOT tests. This will clarify whether the failures were related to minor items like bulbs or more significant mechanical issues.
Registered in September 2004, this silver 1995cc petrol model has covered 82,759 miles, which is relatively low for its age. The MOT history shows three passes over the last three years, though it has experienced two failures in the most recent two testing cycles. Importantly, the most recent test in January 2026 passed with no defects recorded.
Aggregate data for this model shows an average MOT pass rate of 84.2%, with suspension and tyres being the most common areas of concern.
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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BMW 1 SERIES Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2004 model year cars.
- Differential Bearing FailureSerious
Rear differential bearings can wear and start whining, especially on cars that have run mismatched rear tyres or skipped fluid changes.
- Electric Steering Lock (ELV) FaultModerate
The steering lock module can log faults and eventually refuse to release, leaving the car stuck or intermittently failing to start.
- ABS Pump / DSC Module FailureModerate
The DSC hydraulic unit and pressure sensor are common failures, often showing up as ABS, DSC, and handbrake warnings that can become an MOT issue.
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