1997 BMW 3 Series 2.5L Petrol · R150 AJV
1997 BMW 3 Series (2.5L, petrol). First registered 01 Aug 1997. Recorded mileage 74,041 miles. MOT expired on 06 Nov 2024. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- BMW 3 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 1997 · Reading
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 06 Nov 2024
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 74,041 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 2.5L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
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R150 AJV Key Findings
- 2 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 07/11/2023
- 74,041 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
R150 AJV MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
2 MOT tests are recorded for this 1997 BMW 3 Series (R150 AJV) between October 2023 and November 2023.
The record contains 1 pass and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 07 November 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue), Exhaust & Emissions (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 4 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: “Exhaust carbon monoxide content at idle exceeds manufacturer's specified limits (8.2.1.2 (b))”; “Supplementary restraint system warning lamp indicates a fault (7.1.6 (a))”.
R150 AJV Mileage History
- 24/10/202374,038 mi
- 07/11/202374,041 mi+3 mi
Average of roughly 78 miles per year across 2 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below 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 significant caution. This 1
Before purchasing, you must verify if the supplementary restraint system (SRS) fault noted in the October 2023 failure was actually rectified, as a warning lamp indicates a potential safety issue with the airbags. Ask for documented proof of this repair rather than relying on the passing certificate alone.
Given the recorded corrosion on the rear outer sills, you should inspect the underside of the vehicle thoroughly. Negotiate the price downwards if the corrosion is progressing, as structural repairs to sills can be costly. Furthermore, ensure the exhaust system has been serviced to address the high carbon monoxide readings recorded previously.
As a 2.5-litre petrol model from the late 1990s, running costs will be higher than modern equivalents. Expect relatively high fuel consumption and a higher insurance group due to the engine displacement.
Maintenance costs for a classic BMW of this era can fluctuate; while parts are available, specialist labour for older German engineering can be premium. Annual running costs, including fuel, tax, and anticipated maintenance for an older vehicle, are estimated to be significant.
Focus your inspection on the rear outer sills. The MOT history explicitly mentions corrosion in the suspension component mounting areas on both rear outer sills. Check for any signs of bubbling paint or structural weakness in these areas.
Secondly, check the dashboard for any illuminated SRS/airbag warning lights. The vehicle failed an MOT in October 2023 due to this fault. Finally, inspect the exhaust system and the condition of the registration plates, as deterioration was noted in the most recent testing cycle.
This red 2.5L petrol BMW 3 Series has covered 74,041 miles since its first registration in August 1997. While the mileage is relatively low for its age, the recent MOT history shows a failure in October 2023 involving exhaust emissions and SRS warning lights. The most recent test in November 2023 passed, but advisories regarding sill corrosion remain.
Aggregate data for this model shows an 80.1% average MOT pass rate, with common failures relating to brakes, headlamps, and exhausts.
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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