2001 BMW 3 Series 2.0L Petrol · RF51 AXH
2001 BMW 3 Series (2.0L, petrol). First registered 01/10/2001. Recorded mileage 131,247 miles. MOT valid until 04/10/2026.
- Make & Model
- BMW 3 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Reading
- MOT Status
- Valid until 04/10/2026
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (25/05/2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- 131,247 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- PETROL
- Year
- 2001
- Engine
- 1995cc
RF51 AXH Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 06/10/2025
- 131,247 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 8 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (6 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
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.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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RF51 AXH Mileage History
- 01/10/2022118,056 mi
- 04/10/2023123,862 mi+5,806 mi
- 04/10/2023123,862 mi
- 04/10/2024127,978 mi+4,116 mi
- 06/10/2025131,247 mi+3,269 mi
Average of roughly 4,376 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
RF51 AXH MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 BMW 3 Series (RF51 AXH) between October 2022 and October 2025.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 06 October 2025 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: Brakes (6 issues), Suspension (3 issues), Tyres (2 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 14 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 Front Suspension arm pin or bush excessively worn (5.3.4 (a) (i))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A solid option for a classic petrol saloon, provided the mechanical upkeep matches the recent MOT success. The recent clean history is a positive indicator for a vehicle of this age.
When inspecting this 2.0L petrol model, focus on the mechanical integrity of the suspension and drivetrain. Although the recent MOTs show no defects, the aggregate data for this model highlights shock absorbers and drive shaft joints as common failure points. Ensure these components feel secure during a test drive.
Given the vehicle's age, check for any signs of fluid leaks around the engine bay and inspect the condition of the tyres. While this specific car has had no recent tyre-related failures, it remains a primary reason for MOT failures across the wider BMW 3 Series model range. Ask the seller for any documentation regarding recent maintenance to supplement the MOT record.
As a 2.0-litre petrol vehicle, running costs will be higher than a modern equivalent. You should expect moderate fuel consumption typical of a 2001 saloon, and insurance groups for this era of BMW can vary significantly based on the driver's profile.
Maintenance costs should be budgeted for regular component replacements. While the MOT history is currently clean, the high mileage means parts like suspension bushings and seals may require attention. The estimated annual running cost covers fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance.
Pay close attention to the underside of the vehicle. The aggregate data for this model identifies shock absorbers and drive shaft joints as top failure reasons, so look for any weeping from the shocks or excessive play in the CV joints.
Additionally, check the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition across all four wheels. Since tyres are a frequent failure point for this model type, ensuring they have ample life remaining can save immediate costs. Finally, listen for any unusual noises from the drivetrain when pulling away or turning, as these can indicate issues with the components noted in the model's failure statistics.
This 2001 BMW 3 Series, finished in green, has covered 131,247 miles since its first registration in October 2001. The MOT history shows a consistent pattern of passing, with the last three tests in 2023, 2024, and 2025 all resulting in passes with no defects recorded. While it experienced a failure in October 2023, the vehicle has maintained a clean record for the two subsequent annual inspections.
Aggregate data for this model shows an 80.2% average MOT pass rate, with common failures occurring in tyres, shock absorbers, and drive shaft joints.
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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