2004 BMW 3 Series 3.0L Diesel · PX04 TXM

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test, conducted on July 1, 2025 , at 197,520 miles , confirms it remains roadworthy with no defects recorded. This marks a consistent pattern over the past three years, as all tests—including the August 10, 2023 retest at the same mileage—have passed without fail. The absence of advisories or recurring faults suggests the vehicle has been maintained at a basic level, though the lack of defects does not preclude underlying issues requiring closer inspection. The 2023 retest is anomalous in that it occurred immediately after a failure, yet no defects were logged, which may indicate either a minor oversight in the original test or a vehicle that has historically passed without significant wear being detected. The mileage progression shows 197,520 miles today , averaging roughly 8,978 miles per year over its 22-year lifespan—a rate typical for a well-used BMW of this age. There are no large gaps between tests, with the most recent spanning 12 months (July 2024 to July 2025) and the previous 11 months (July 2023 to August 2023). The 2022 to 2023 interval was slightly shorter at 11 months , but the mileage increase between tests remained steady, suggesting consistent usage rather than prolonged neglect. The duplicate test date in 2023 (a retest at the same mileage) is unusual but does not imply worsening condition—it may reflect administrative redundancy rather than mechanical concern. Given the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise suspension inspection , particularly the rear suspension bushes and coil springs , as these components in a 22-year-old BMW often degrade without immediate MOT failure. The front and rear brake systems warrant scrutiny, especially for binding calipers, uneven disc wear, or corrosion , as these can develop silently. Exhaust emissions should also be checked, as older BMWs prone to catalytic converter or sensor failures may pass MOTs but exhibit poor real-world efficiency. Finally, structural corrosion —particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe—must be examined, as this is a common silent risk in high-mileage vehicles. The absence of advisories does not guarantee these areas are sound.