2016 BMW X3 2.0L Diesel · S1 DHM
2016 BMW X3 (2.0L, diesel). First registered 29 Sept 2016. Recorded mileage 43,417 miles. MOT expired on 27 Sept 2026. Taxed until 01 Sept 2027.
- Make & Model
- BMW X3
- Year / Origin
- 2016 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 27 Sept 2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Sept 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 43,417 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
S1 DHM Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 16/09/2025
- 43,417 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (7 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
S1 DHM 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 2016 BMW X3 (S1 DHM) between September 2022 and September 2025.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 16 September 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: Suspension (7 issues), Steering (1 issue), Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 8 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 Rear Coil spring fractured or broken (5.3.1 (b) (i))”.
S1 DHM Mileage History
- 16/09/202230,437 mi
- 12/09/202335,829 mi+5,392 mi
- 12/09/202439,931 mi+4,102 mi
- 16/09/202439,964 mi+33 mi
- 16/09/202543,417 mi+3,453 mi
Average of roughly 4,326 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for BMW X3 (F25)
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
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.
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Digital Service History
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Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution but consider this a
When inspecting this specific X3, pay close attention to the suspension components. The MOT history shows a recurring theme of worn suspension arm pins or bushes on both the nearside and offside fronts, as well as issues with coil springs. I recommend a thorough test drive to listen for any knocking or clunking sounds that might indicate these components need immediate replacement.
Given the 2023 advisory regarding pitted or scored brake discs, you should check the current condition of the braking system. Ask the seller for evidence of recent brake servicing. Additionally, because the 2024 MOT failure was due to a fractured rear coil spring, verify that the springs have been replaced and are not showing signs of corrosion, which was noted in the 2023 record.
As a 2.0L diesel, this X3 is likely to offer decent fuel economy for a mid-sized SUV, though actual figures will depend on driving style and load. Tax and insurance groups will vary based on specific trim levels, but as a premium German diesel, insurance costs should be factored into your budget.
Maintenance costs for this model can be higher than average due to the complexity of the suspension and braking systems. Based on the MOT history, you should budget for periodic replacement of suspension bushes and coil springs. An estimated annual running cost for this vehicle is approximately £1,400-£1,800, covering fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance.
Focus your inspection on the front suspension assembly. The MOT records for 2022, 2023, and 2025 all highlight issues with suspension arm pins, bushes, or bent arms. Ensure there is no excessive play in the front end.
Secondly, inspect the rear suspension area. The 2023 MOT noted a corroded nearside rear coil spring, which led to a failure in 2024 when it fractured. Check the integrity of all coil springs for any signs of surface rust or cracks. Finally, check the brake discs for pitting or scoring, as this was an advisory on the 2023 test.
This 2016 grey BMW X3 has covered 43,417 miles, which is significantly lower than the model average of approximately 8,349 miles per year. The MOT history shows a pattern of suspension-related advisories and one failure involving a fractured coil spring in 2024. Despite these recurring minor issues, the vehicle has maintained a consistent passing record over the last four years.
Aggregate data for this model shows an 84.5% MOT pass rate, with coil springs being a common failure reason across the fleet.
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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BMW X3 Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2016 model year cars.
- Transfer Case Failure (xDrive)Serious
The transfer case wears quickly if tyre circumferences differ or the fluid is never changed, leading to expensive judder and shunt under acceleration.
- Rear Coil Spring SnappingModerate
The X3 weight and UK road conditions make rear springs a regular wear point, sometimes only noticed when the MOT tester spots a broken bottom coil.
- Steering Rack RattleModerate
The electronic steering rack can develop the same clunk and vagueness seen on F30-based BMWs, especially on cars with larger wheels.
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