1998 BMW 3 Series 1.8L Petrol · S522 CDK
1998 BMW 3 Series (1.8L, petrol). First registered 31 Dec 1998. Recorded mileage 98,438 miles. MOT valid until 04 Feb 2027. Taxed until 01 Jan 2027.
- Make & Model
- BMW 3 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 04 Feb 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Jan 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 98,438 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.8L
- 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.
S522 CDK Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 05/02/2026
- 98,438 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 3 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring bodywork & corrosion items (5 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
S522 CDK MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 BMW 3 Series (S522 CDK) between May 2022 and February 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 13 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Bodywork (5 issues), Brakes (3 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (1 issue), Tyres (1 issue), Windscreen (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 13 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.
S522 CDK Mileage History
- 23/05/202295,872 mi
- 31/01/202597,602 mi+1,730 mi
- 05/02/202698,438 mi+836 mi
Average of roughly 692 miles per year across 3 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
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 extreme caution unless you are a specialist or enthusiast prepared for significant structural restoration. While the mileage is reasonable for the age, the persistent and worsening structural corrosion makes this a high-risk purchase for the average buyer.
The primary focus for this vehicle must be a thorough structural inspection. The MOT history repeatedly notes corrosion in the inner integral structures, sills, and suspension mounting areas. You must check if the rust is merely surface level or if it has compromised the structural integrity, as the 2026 MOT already notes significant corrosion on the offside and nearside inner integrals.
Mechanically, check for the persistent oil leaks mentioned in 2025 and 2026, which could indicate aging gaskets or seal failures common on the E46 generation. Given the history of brake pipe corrosion and parking brake inefficiency, ensure the braking system has been comprehensively serviced. Ask for a full service history to see if the timing belt has been replaced recently, as this is a critical maintenance item for this engine.
The 1.8cc petrol engine is relatively efficient, but you should expect around 30-35 mpg depending on driving conditions. As an older BMW, it falls into a moderate tax band, but insurance premiums can vary significantly based on your personal profile and local area.
Maintenance costs will be higher than a modern hatchback due to the age of the vehicle, with rubber components (bushings shocks) and exhaust parts likely to require replacement. Estimate an annual running cost of approximately £1,200-£1,500, including fuel, tax, and a fund for inevitable repairs.
Prioritize an inspection of the sills and rear arches. The MOT history shows a progression from 'surface corrosion' to 'corroded but rigidity not significantly reduced' in structural areas. Use a torch to look for bubbling paint or soft-looking metal where the arches meet the sills.
Examine the rear suspension thoroughly. The data shows a history of deteriorated trailing arm bushes and worn shock absorbers. Look for uneven tyre wear or clunking noises when over bumps. Additionally, inspect the entire exhaust system, as multiple MOTs have flagged leaks in the front pipe, catalytic converter, and center.
This 1998 BMW 3 Series has covered approximately 98,438 miles, which is well below average for a 28-year-old vehicle. However, the MOT history reveals a long-term battle with structural corrosion across the sills, rear arches, and suspension mounting points. While it has passed its recent tests, the recurring advisories regarding underbody and inner integral structure corrosion suggest that the car is nearing the end of its rust-free structural life.
The E46 3 Series is generally regarded for its build quality, but it is notorious for rust if not properly treated in salty climates.
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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