2015 BMW I3 0.6L Hybrid electric · FD65 MLJ

The BMW i3 has maintained a consistent pass rate across its last five MOT tests, with the most recent in November 2025 at 43,479 miles showing no defects at all. However, the underlying trend reveals a vehicle that has been managed reactively rather than proactively. Tyre condition has been the most persistent issue, escalating from general cracking in 2023 to near-legal wear and edge damage on the rear tyres by 2024—a clear sign that tread depth was allowed to degrade rather than being addressed promptly. The 2022 and 2021 tests also highlighted corroded coil springs and repeated "brakes require further inspection" advisories, suggesting these were either overlooked or only partially addressed between tests. While the car has passed each time, the recurrence of these faults indicates deferred maintenance rather than a well-documented service history. The vehicle’s mileage of 43,479 over 11 years—around 3,953 miles annually—is unusually low for its age, implying either infrequent use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The gap between the 2021 test (29,507 miles) and the 2022 test (36,458 miles) shows a sudden increase of 6,951 miles in just over a year, which may have accelerated wear on components like tyres and suspension. The subsequent three years saw mileage rise more gradually, averaging under 3,000 miles per year, but the lack of significant mileage accumulation doesn’t necessarily mean the car has been neglected—it could equally reflect careful, measured use. What stands out is the absence of any major mileage spikes or extended periods without testing, which might otherwise have triggered more severe defects. For a buyer, the most critical areas to inspect in person are the suspension and braking systems. The repeated "brakes require further inspection" advisories in 2021 and 2022 demand closer examination—binding calipers, uneven pad wear, or fluid leaks could all have been present without a full inspection. The corroded coil springs noted in 2021 and 2022 may have been addressed, but their recurrence suggests either poor-quality replacements or ongoing exposure to moisture; checking for sagging, uneven ride height, or excessive vibration would be prudent. Tyres, while now passed, should be scrutinised for hidden damage or uneven wear patterns, as the 2024 test revealed edge wear that could indicate alignment issues. The under-tray fitting mentioned in 2022 is a positive sign of basic corrosion protection, but rust in wheel arches, suspension mounts, or the rear subframe should still be checked for any signs of structural compromise. Given the low mileage, wear on consumables like brake pads, clutch (if applicable), and wiper blades may be minimal—but the history suggests that even minor issues were not always caught early.