1988 Bedford Midi 1.0L Petrol · F398 BEY
1988 Bedford Midi (1.0L, petrol). First registered 01 Sept 1988. Recorded mileage 81,870 miles. MOT expired on 24 Jun 2026. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- BEDFORD MIDI
- Year / Origin
- 1988 · Nottingham
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 24 Jun 2026
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 81,870 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
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.
F398 BEY Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 26/06/2025
- 81,870 miles recorded at latest MOT
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
F398 BEY MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 MOT tests are recorded for this 1988 Bedford Midi (F398 BEY) between May 2022 and June 2025.
The record contains 3 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: Exhaust & Emissions (1 issue). 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.
F398 BEY Mileage History
- 27/05/202280,212 mi
- 14/06/202480,667 mi+455 mi
- 26/06/202581,870 mi+1,203 mi
Average of roughly 538 miles per year across 3 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Average
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
Proceed with caution given this vehicle'
When inspecting this vehicle, focus heavily on the bodywork and chassis integrity, as rust is a known issue for light commercial vehicles of this era. Given the 2024 MOT report of blue smoke, check the engine for signs of oil consumption or piston ring wear, which can be costly to rectify on the 970cc petrol engine.
Verify that the vehicle has been stored in a dry environment if possible. Because there is no aggregate reliability data for the Bedford Midi, your primary source of information is the physical condition of the van and any accompanying paper service history you can secure from the seller.
Running a 1988 vehicle involves specific considerations, such as potential exemption from VED (Vehicle Excise Duty) due to its age, though you must verify this status with the DVLA. Insurance may be affordable through specialist classic car policies, but parts availability will likely be the biggest financial hurdle, as many components are no longer in production.
Fuel economy for the 970cc engine will be modest by modern standards, especially when the vehicle is loaded. Budget significantly for preventative maintenance and the sourcing of second-hand or 'new old stock' parts to keep the vehicle roadworthy.
Prioritise a thorough check of the exhaust system and engine seals. The 2024 MOT mention of blue smoke suggests oil is entering the combustion chamber, so inspect the spark plugs for fouling and check the oil level frequently during a test drive.
Inspect the underside of the vehicle for any signs of corrosion or previous welding, particularly around the suspension mounting points and sills. Ensure all electrical systems are functional, as wiring looms on vehicles of this age can become brittle and prone to intermittent faults.
This 1988 Bedford Midi is a rare survivor, currently showing 81,870 miles on the odometer. Its MOT history shows a mix of clean passes and specific mechanical observations, including reports of blue smoke and oil leaks. Prospective buyers should view this as a project vehicle rather than a daily driver due to its age and the scarcity of parts.
There is no aggregate MOT reliability data available for the Bedford Midi, meaning individual vehicle condition is entirely dependent on its specific maintenance history.
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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