2012 BMW 116 2.0L Diesel · RO12 BVY

The vehicle's overall roadworthiness remains sound, but the MOT history reveals a clear deterioration trend that requires immediate attention. The most recent test recorded on 2025-04-12 was passed at 143,778 miles, indicating the car has maintained a functional condition through that period. However, the failure to pass the MOT in March 2023 at 128,043 miles suggests a significant drop-off, likely due to neglected maintenance or a major mechanical failure. The failure to pass in April 2024 at 135,838 miles confirms that the car did not meet safety standards despite having passed the previous test, indicating a worsening condition rather than a temporary setback. This sequence demonstrates that the car has not been properly maintained since the 2023-03-23 test, where the tester flagged multiple issues including a ball joint dust cover and a failing position lamp. The mileage accumulation is particularly concerning given the vehicle's age of 2012. With approximately 10,270 miles per year, the car has experienced rapid mileage growth since its purchase, which is typical for a used car but raises flags regarding wear on critical components. The specific gaps in the MOT record, such as the failure to pass in April 2024 at 135,838 miles, indicate that the car has not been serviced regularly, leading to accelerated failure of components like suspension bushes and coil springs. The data suggests that the buyer must account for the risk of a future MOT failure due to the lack of regular inspection. Given the recurring faults and the structural integrity risks identified in the history, the buyer should inspect the car in person to verify the condition of the rear brake discs and the structural integrity of the suspension. The failure to pass the MOT in March 2023 and the subsequent failure in April 2024 highlight that the car has not undergone a full service interval, meaning the brakes and suspension may be in a state of disrepair. A thorough visual inspection is mandatory to check for corrosion, rust, and binding calipers, as these components are the most likely culprits for the recurring failures. The buyer must also verify the status of the front anti-roll bar linkage and the position lamp, which were flagged as issues in the 2023-03-23 test, as these mechanical failures could compromise the vehicle's handling and safety.