2002 BMW 3 Series 2.4L Petrol · RV52 XMC
2002 BMW 3 Series (2.4L, petrol). First registered 01/09/2002. Recorded mileage 112,797 miles. MOT valid until 08/06/2027. Taxed until 01/06/2027.
- Make & Model
- BMW 3 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 2002 · Reading
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 08/06/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/06/2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 112,797 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Likely ULEZ Compliant (Early Euro 4)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 2.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- PETROL
- Year
- 2002
- Engine
- 2404cc
RV52 XMC Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 10/06/2026
- 112,797 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 12 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (18 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: 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.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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RV52 XMC Mileage History
- 04/06/202493,067 mi
- 23/05/2025104,129 mi+11,062 mi
- 27/05/2025104,129 mi
- 08/06/2026112,796 mi+8,667 mi
- 10/06/2026112,797 mi+1 mi
Average of roughly 9,794 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
RV52 XMC 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 2002 BMW 3 Series (RV52 XMC) between June 2024 and June 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 10 June 2026 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: Brakes (18 issues), Suspension (6 issues), Tyres (5 issues), Lighting (3 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 37 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: “Offside Front Outer Brake pad(s) less than 1.5 mm thick (1.1.13 (a) (ii))”; “Rear Registration plate lamp does not illuminate simultaneously with the position lamps (4.7.2 (a))”; “Offside Front Lower Suspension arm pin or bush excessively worn arm rear bush (5.3.4 (a) (i))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Exercise significant caution. While the
Focus your negotiation on the extensive list of advisories from the June 2026 MOT. Specifically, the corroded brake pipes and deteriorating brake hoses are safety-critical items that should be addressed immediately. You should also request evidence of the repairs made to resolve the June 2026 failure, including the replacement of the offside rear coil spring and suspension arm bush.
Carefully review the service history for any record of oil leak repairs. The MOT history shows 'not excessive' leaks from the central engine, front, and rear differential as recently as June 2026, suggesting a systemic issue with seals and gaskets common in vehicles of this age.
The 2404cc petrol engine will result in higher fuel consumption and a higher road tax bracket compared to smaller 3 Series variants. Insurance costs will be moderate, though the age of the vehicle may affect the availability of certain comprehensive policies.
Maintenance costs are likely to be higher than average for this model due to the documented need for suspension and braking system overhauls. Estimated annual running costs, including fuel, tax, insurance, and the likely need for remedial work on leaks and corrosion, are approximately £1,200-£1,500.
Prioritise an underside inspection to assess the severity of the corroded brake pipes and deteriorated hoses noted in the June 2026 MOT. Check the nearside front shock absorber for the oil misting mentioned in the records and verify the effectiveness of the parking brake, as the latest test recommended investigation into low roller brake effort.
Inspect the engine bay and the rear differential for active oil leaks. While the MOT describes these as 'not excessive', they are recorded in multiple locations (central, front, and rear), which warrants a close look for seepage or staining on the chassis.
This blue 2002 BMW 3 Series with a 2.4L petrol engine has recorded 112,797 miles. The MOT history indicates a pattern of suspension wear and recurring oil leaks. The most recent test in June 2026 passed, but only after an initial failure and with a substantial list of advisories concerning the braking system and fluid leaks.
This model has an average MOT pass rate of 80.2%, with frequent failures related to 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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