2017 BMW M4 3.0L Petrol · DF67 TCK

The most recent DVSA examination on 11 October 2024 resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, suggesting the vehicle was in a sound roadworthy condition at that point. Across the documented history, the car has consistently passed its annual test, with only a small number of advisories that have largely been administrative in nature. The 2022 and 2023 tests both flagged engine covers and under trays obscuring some components, a common advisory on modern BMWs and one that does not indicate any underlying mechanical concern, merely a limitation on what the tester could visually inspect. The most significant item in the file is the dangerous failure recorded on 10 December 2020 for an offside rear tyre with tread depth below the 1.6mm minimum, which was accompanied by an advisory on the opposite rear tyre showing similar edge wear. Since that point, the tyre-related advisories have ceased, implying replacement tyres have been fitted and maintained appropriately. The overall trajectory is therefore stable, with no recurring or escalating mechanical defects across the testing history. Against a nine-year age, the recorded mileage of 25,752 miles equates to an average of around 2,861 miles annually, which is unusually low even for a high-performance coupe such as the M4. Such a figure suggests either very limited use, potentially involving long periods of standing, or possible gaps in the recorded mileage. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components, it carries its own set of mechanical implications, particularly regarding components that degrade with time rather than use. The 2020 failure occurred on relatively early mileage, which is consistent with age-related tyre deterioration rather than wear from extensive driving. Buyers should therefore approach this car with the understanding that its condition is shaped as much by calendar age as by the distance travelled. Given the low annual usage and standing periods this vehicle has likely experienced, particular attention should be paid to age-related deterioration. Tyres on a car of this age can suffer from sidewall perishing and cracking even when tread depth remains legal, so a close visual inspection of all four tyres, particularly the sidewalls, is essential, and consideration given to replacement if any crazing or hardening of the rubber is evident. Brake discs that have been left standing, especially in damp conditions, commonly develop surface corrosion, and the calipers may seize or bind through lack of use; a test drive should therefore include several firm brake applications to confirm the pedal feels firm and the car stops squarely without pulling. On the road, listen for any clonks or creaks from the suspension, which on an M4 can indicate perished or cracked suspension bushes, weakened coil springs, or worn control arm joints, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that would suggest misalignment or component wear. It is also advisable to verify the service book stamps and confirm that engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid have been changed in line with time-based rather than purely mileage-based schedules, as BMW fluids degrade over time regardless of use. Finally, the 12V battery condition warrants close scrutiny, since low-mileage cars frequently suffer from battery failure due to insufficient charge cycles, and a weak or aged battery can cause a range of electronic faults on a modern BMW. Inspect the battery for its manufacturing date and consider a load test if possible. Ensure all warning lamps extinguish promptly on start-up and that no fault messages are stored. Given the engine cover advisories noted on previous tests, it would also be prudent to arrange an inspection with the under trays removed, allowing a thorough check for fluid leaks from the engine, transmission, differential, and power steering, all of which can deteriorate from age and infrequent use. With a pre-purchase inspection, verification of full service history, and particular focus on the items outlined above, this M4 should be assessed carefully but the MOT record itself does not give significant cause for concern.