2001 BMW 3 Series 2.2L Petrol · DG51 AOS
2001 BMW 3 Series (2.2L, petrol). First registered 01/09/2001. Recorded mileage 47,401 miles. MOT valid until 21/06/2027. Taxed until 01/02/2027.
- Make & Model
- BMW 3 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Chester
- MOT Status
- Valid until 21/06/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/02/2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 47,401 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Likely ULEZ Compliant (Early Euro 4)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 2.2L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 2001
- Engine
- 2171cc
DG51 AOS Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 23/06/2026
- 47,401 miles recorded at latest MOT
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
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.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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DG51 AOS Mileage History
- 12/05/202241,195 mi
- 18/05/202342,355 mi+1,160 mi
- 24/05/202442,728 mi+373 mi
- 11/06/202543,950 mi+1,222 mi
- 23/06/202647,401 mi+3,451 mi
Average of roughly 1,508 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
DG51 AOS 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 2001 BMW 3 Series (DG51 AOS) between May 2022 and June 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 2 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 2 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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Highly recommended for enthusiasts seeking a low-mileage modern classic. The exceptionally low mileage and generally clean MOT history make this a rare and desirable find.
The primary focus for a buyer should be the service history. With a car covering fewer than 2,000 miles a year, oil changes and fluid replacements should have done annually regardless of mileage to prevent degradation. Ensure that the timing belt has been replaced according to time-based intervals, as rubber components age over decades even with low use.
Pay close attention to the advisories from the 2023 MOT regarding suspension arm bushes. While these did not cause a failure, they indicate the start of rubber wear due to age. Check for any leaks from the power steering or cooling system during the test drive, as seals can dry out on E46 generation BMWs that have sat for long periods.
The 2.2L petrol engine is balanced for performance and economy, though you should expect around 28-32 mpg depending on driving style and road conditions. As an older 2001 registration, it falls into a lower tax band, but insurance groups can vary significantly based on your profile.
Maintenance costs are standard for a premium German brand; parts are more expensive than a mass-market equivalent. Expect an annual running cost, including fuel, tax, and basic servicing, to sit roughly between £1,200 and £1,500.
Inspect the front suspension thoroughly, as the 2023 MOT noted worn arm bushes on both the nearside and offside fronts. Check for play in the steering and any clunking noises over bumps, which would indicate the need for suspension overhaul.
Examine the condition of the tyres and the underbody. Given the 2017 failure for an exposed ply cord, ensure the current tyres are of adequate quality and not showing sidewall cracking from age. Look for surface rust on the wheel arches and sills, which is a common weak point for this era despite low mileage.
This BMW 3 Series is a rare example of a low-mileage petrol saloon, having covered just under 48,000 miles in over 24 years. The MOT history is remarkably clean, with only two failures related to consumable items like brake pads and a tyre. Given its age, the vehicle appears to have been well-maintained and sparingly rather than as a high-frequency daily commuter.
The E46 3 Series is generally regarded as a robust driving platform, provided the cooling system and oil leaks are kept on top of.
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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