2008 BMW 118 2.0L Diesel · MM08 ABV
2008 BMW 118 (2.0L, diesel). First registered 03 Jul 2008. Recorded mileage 167,240 miles. MOT expired on 23 Feb 2024. A manufacturer safety recall is currently outstanding.
- Make & Model
- BMW 118
- Year / Origin
- 2008 · Manchester & Merseyside
- Safety Recall
- Recall Notice
- MOT Status
- Expired on 23 Feb 2024
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 167,240 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Outstanding Safety Recall Notice
Action RequiredOfficial DVSA telemetry indicates this vehicle has an unaddressed manufacturer safety recall. Remedial repairs are legally required to be carried out 100% free of charge by an authorised main dealer.
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.
MM08 ABV Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Outstanding manufacturer safety recall notice
- Latest MOT passed on 17/02/2023
- 167,240 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 7 defects noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MM08 ABV MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2008 BMW 118 (MM08 ABV) between February 2022 and February 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 17 February 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (11 issues), Tyres (6 issues), Brakes (6 issues), Suspension (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 22 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.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Rear Brake hose excessively damaged (1.1.12 (b) (ii))”; “Offside Rear Brake hose excessively damaged (1.1.12 (b) (ii))”; “Electronic stability control warning lamp indicates a fault (7.12 (e))”.
MM08 ABV Mileage History
- 15/02/2022162,971 mi
- 15/02/2022162,971 mi
- 15/02/2023167,240 mi+4,269 mi
- 17/02/2023167,240 mi
Average of roughly 4,246 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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MOT Roadworthiness: Poor
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
Exercise significant caution before purc
Prospective buyers should approach this vehicle with a rigorous inspection plan. Given the history of ABS and Electronic Stability Control warning lamps, a professional diagnostic scan is essential to determine if these are sensor issues or more costly electronic control unit failures. The recurring mention of 'Supplementary restraint system warning lamp' indicates an airbag system fault that must be addressed for safety.
Negotiate based on the documented history of mechanical wear. You should request evidence that the previously noted oil leak and sub-frame corrosion have been monitored or addressed. Because the vehicle has high mileage, ensure you check the full service history to see if the timing chain or turbocharger components have been serviced, as these are critical for this 1995cc diesel engine.
As a 2.0L diesel, running costs will be influenced by fuel economy, which is generally efficient for motorway driving but can vary based on maintenance. This vehicle falls into a specific insurance group and tax band typical for a 2008 BMW 1-series, though high mileage may slightly lower insurance premiums.
Maintenance costs are likely to be higher than average due to the age and mileage. The MOT history shows frequent replacements of tyres, brake hoses, and ball joint covers. Expect regular spending on suspension components and potential repairs for the electrical faults noted in the 2022 and 2023 tests.
First, inspect the underside of the vehicle specifically for the 'Rear Sub-frame corrosion' noted in multiple MOT tests. While recorded as 'not seriously weakened' in 2023, corrosion is progressive and requires close monitoring. Check the engine bay for the presence of the 'not excessive' oil leak mentioned in the 2022 and 2023 records.
Second, perform a thorough check of the braking system. The history shows a pattern of deteriorating brake hoses and valve stem damage. Finally, verify that all warning lights (ABS, ESC, and SRS) are completely extinguished on the dashboard and that the headlamps function correctly, as these were recent failure points.
This 2008 blue BMW 118 diesel has covered 167,240 miles, which is considerably higher than the model average of 7,448 miles per year. While the most recent MOT in February 2023 was a pass, the record shows repeated failures regarding braking systems, electrical faults (ABS and SRS), and suspension components. The vehicle also shows evidence of ongoing structural corrosion and oil leaks.
Aggregate data for this model shows an 83.3% MOT pass rate, with common failures involving headlamps and shock absorbers.
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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