2011 BMW 3 Series 2.0L Petrol · SA11 AAE
2011 BMW 3 Series (2.0L, petrol). First registered 17 Mar 2011. Recorded mileage 88,488 miles. MOT valid until 11 Jul 2027. Taxed until 01 Sept 2027. No outstanding manufacturer safety recalls recorded.
- Make & Model
- BMW 3 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 2011 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- None Outstanding
- MOT Status
- Valid until 11 Jul 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Sept 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 88,488 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
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.
SA11 AAE Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 07/07/2026
- 88,488 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 4 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (7 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
SA11 AAE 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 2011 BMW 3 Series (SA11 AAE) between July 2023 and July 2026.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 07 July 2026 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), Tyres (3 issues), Brakes (1 issue), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 14 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 Front Shock absorbers has a serious fluid leak (5.3.2 (b))”; “Offside Rear Shock absorbers has a serious fluid leak (5.3.2 (b))”.
SA11 AAE Mileage History
- 06/07/202375,759 mi
- 13/06/202480,363 mi+4,604 mi
- 24/06/202480,444 mi+81 mi
- 07/07/202585,728 mi+5,284 mi
- 07/07/202688,488 mi+2,760 mi
Average of roughly 4,239 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Good
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 caution and budget for upco
When viewing this vehicle, prioritize checking the service history to see how the previously noted oil leaks and suspension issues have been addressed. Because the 2025 MOT recorded both front suspension arm bushes perishing and rear sub-frame corrosion, you should verify if any structural or significant suspension work was actually carried out following those advisories.
Negotiate based on the most recent MOT advisories. The 2026 test noted nearside front anti-roll bar play and tyre wear on both offside and nearside rear tyres. These are immediate maintenance items that will require expenditure shortly after purchase. Furthermore, check the shock absorbers again, as 'light misting' was noted in 2025 and 2026, suggesting a persistent issue.
As a 2.0L petrol model, running costs will be moderate. Fuel economy for this era of 3 Series is generally respectable for a premium saloon, but actual figures will depend on driving style and maintenance.
Insurance groups for 2011 BMW 3 Series models vary significantly based on the specific engine tuning, so obtain a quote before buying. Maintenance costs may be higher than average due to the recurring issues seen in the MOT history, specifically regarding suspension components and potential oil leak repairs. Expect an estimated annual running cost of £1,400-£1,800, accounting for fuel, tax, insurance, and typical maintenance.
Pay close attention to the underside of the vehicle. The 2025 MOT specifically flagged corrosion on the rear sub-frame and rear suspension arms. While these were noted as 'not seriously weakened' at the time, corrosion is progressive and should be inspected closely for any signs of worsening.
Inspect the engine bay for signs of the 'not excessive' oil leaks mentioned in the 2024 and 2025 MOT records. Additionally, test the suspension for any knocks or knocks over uneven surfaces, given the history of shock absorber leaks and anti-roll bar linkage play. Finally, check the tread depth and evenness of all four tyres, as the history shows a recurring pattern of tyres wearing on the edges.
This 2011 blue BMW 3 Series petrol has covered 88,488 miles, which is higher than the model average of 7,248 miles per year. The MOT history reveals a series of advisories and failures related to shock absorbers, oil leaks, and suspension components. While it passed its most recent test in July 2026, several items like the nearside anti-roll bar linkage and tyre wear remain as advisories.
Aggregate data for this model shows an 80.2% MOT pass rate, with common failure points including 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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