1998 BMW 3 Series 1.8L Lpg · S522 EAB
1998 BMW 3 Series (1.8L, lpg). First registered 01/08/1998. Recorded mileage 124,752 miles. MOT status: Expired. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- BMW 3 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- MOT Status
- Valid until 29/06/2025
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 124,752 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required
- Fuel & Engine
- LPG · 1.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- LPG
- Year
- 1998
- Engine
- 1796cc
S522 EAB Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 01/07/2024
- 124,752 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below 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
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S522 EAB Mileage History
- 16/12/2021124,021 mi
- 20/06/2024124,748 mi+727 mi
- 01/07/2024124,752 mi+4 mi
Average of roughly 288 miles per year across 3 recorded odometer readings.
S522 EAB 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 EAB) between December 2021 and July 2024.
The record contains 2 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 01 July 2024 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 (1 issue), Lighting (1 issue), Steering (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 1 advisory notice is 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: “Power steering malfunctioning (2.1.5 (a))”; “Nearside Headlamp aim projected beam image is obviously incorrect (4.1.2 (c))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Caution: This high‑mileage 1998 BMW 3 Series with recent major MOT failures and significant suspension corrosion should be approached with extreme care. Only consider purchase if the price reflects the extensive remedial work required.
Start by reviewing the full MOT history and confirming that all recent repairs addressed the major failures noted in the June 2024 test, especially the headlamp aim and power steering malfunction. Inspect the power steering pump and rack for leaks or wear, check the condition of the suspension arms and sub‑frame for rust, and verify that the ABS warning lamp is functioning correctly. Also examine the tyre wear patterns, brake condition and the state of the LPG system for any signs of leaks or component deterioration.
Negotiate a discount that covers the likely cost of replacing corroded suspension components, servicing the power steering, and any needed brake or tyre work. Verify that the service book is complete and that any LPG conversion has been maintained according to the manufacturer’s schedule, as neglect can lead to expensive repairs. Finally, consider a professional independent inspection focusing on the steering rack, wheel bearings and exhaust system to uncover any hidden issues before committing.
Running this 1.8 L LPG‑powered 3 Series will likely deliver modest fuel economy, roughly 30‑35 mpg combined, which translates to a fuel cost of around £600‑£700 per year assuming 12,000 mi of annual mileage. The vehicle falls into the standard 1998 tax band for a 1.8 L petrol‑equivalent, resulting in an annual road tax of approximately £130. Insurance for a 1998 BMW 3 Series in the UK typically ranges from group 15 to 20, costing about £400‑£500 per year for a driver with a clean record.
Routine maintenance for this model includes regular oil changes, timing belt replacement (if applicable) and periodic brake and suspension servicing; budgeting £150‑£250 annually for these items is realistic. Factoring in the above running expenses, the estimated total annual cost is £800‑£1,000.
Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the suspension components, paying close attention to the condition of the front and rear suspension arms, bushings and the sub‑frame, as the MOT history records multiple corrosion advisories. Check the power steering system for leaks, wear on the rack and proper operation of the steering wheel, and verify that the headlamp aim is correctly set after any recent work.
Next, examine the braking system: inspect the condition of the brake discs, pads and the off‑side rear brake pipe for corrosion or leakage, and test the ABS warning lamp for proper function. Also assess tyre wear, ensuring the tread depth is adequate and that there is no uneven wear indicating alignment or suspension problems, and confirm that the registration plates meet legal specifications.
The vehicle has accumulated 124,752 miles since its first registration in August 1998 and recently passed a MOT in July 2024 after a previous failure in June 2024 that included major headlamp aim and power steering faults. Earlier MOT records show recurring corrosion advisories on suspension arms, sub‑frame and tyres, as well as several major failures involving the ABS, brake pipes and registration plates. While the LPG fuel system may lower running costs, the overall condition is compromised by high mileage and repeated mechanical issues, reducing its value proposition.
BMW 3 Series models of this era generally exhibit solid build quality, but they are known for suspension and electrical issues, as evidenced by the numerous corrosion and steering-related advisories in this vehicle's history.
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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