2002 BMW 3 Series 2.5L Petrol · AF02 FYG

The 2002 BMW 3 Series presents a stable roadworthiness trend with a clean pass recorded at the most recent test on 15 December 2023 at 169,161 miles. No defects or advisories appear across the five available MOT entries from 2020 to 2023, indicating the vehicle has not shown escalating mechanical faults during this period. The maintenance record suggests consistent statutory testing rather than a pattern of recurring failures. Annual mileage sits at a typical level for a 24-year-old car, averaging roughly 7,048 miles per year against the recorded 169,161 miles. The DVSA data shows steady accumulation: 144,444 miles on 7 November 2020, 149,368 on 20 November 2021, 157,995 on 10 November 2022, and 169,161 on 15 December 2023. The only anomaly is a failed test on 10 November 2022 at 157,995 miles with no defects logged, immediately followed by a pass on the same day at identical mileage, pointing to an administrative or procedural rejection rather than a mechanical fault. Given the absence of recorded advisories on suspension bushes, brake discs, coil springs, or corrosion, the MOT history alone reveals no active structural or mechanical warnings. A buyer should still commission a physical inspection of subframe and sill integrity, as E46 chassis cars of this age commonly suffer hidden rust despite passing emissions and lighting checks. Verify the condition of consumable items such as tyres and wiper blades, which fall outside MOT failure thresholds when marginally worn. The clean record implies previous owners maintained basic compliance but offers no evidence of proactive component renewal. With the last test now over two and a half years old relative to today's date, a fresh MOT and underside survey remain essential before purchase.