2005 Caterham Seven (S3) 1.6L Petrol · SN05 HBK
2005 Caterham Seven (S3) (1.6L, petrol). First registered 01 Mar 2005. Recorded mileage 23,494 miles. MOT valid until 05 Jul 2027. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- CATERHAM SEVEN (S3)
- Year / Origin
- 2005 · Edinburgh
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 05 Jul 2027
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 23,494 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
SN05 HBK Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 07/07/2026
- 23,494 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
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.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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SN05 HBK Mileage History
- 05/11/202123,029 mi
- 11/05/202323,382 mi+353 mi
- 07/07/202623,494 mi+112 mi
- 07/07/202623,494 mi
Average of roughly 100 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
SN05 HBK MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2005 Caterham Seven (S3) (SN05 HBK) between November 2021 and July 2026.
The record contains 3 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: Tyres (2 issues), Lighting (2 issues), Steering (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 3 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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
This 2005 Caterham Seven S3 offers low mileage and a recent MOT pass, but recurring minor issues and limited reliability data warrant caution. Negotiate based on its MOT history.
Prioritise checking the nearside direction indicator and rear fog lamp functionality, as these failed in the latest MOT. Inspect the nearside rear wheel bearing (previously noted for play) and ensure tires are not worn past legal limits. Verify service records for the steering rack gaiter repair from 2023. Negotiate the price to account for recurring minor issues, and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a Caterham specialist. Be wary of potential rust or body corrosion given the vehicle's age and blue paintwork.
Fuel economy for the 1.6L petrol engine is likely modest, with typical urban driving around 30-35 mpg. Road tax for 2005 models falls into the £145-£160 annual bracket (depending on CO2 emissions). Insurance group is likely high due to the vehicle's sports pedigree. Maintenance costs may exceed average due to specialist parts and servicing requirements. Estimated annual running costs: £1,000-£1,500.
Focus on the lighting systems, particularly the nearside direction indicator repeater and offside rear fog lamp, which failed in 2026. Check tire tread depth and condition, as both rear tires were near legal limits in 2021. Examine the nearside rear wheel bearing for excessive play and inspect the steering rack gaiter for damage. Look for signs of body rust or corrosion, especially around the chassis and underbody. Confirm the vehicle's history of low mileage aligns with its mechanical condition.
The 2005 Caterham Seven S3 has 23,494 miles for its age, which is below average for a 21-year-old vehicle. While it passed its most recent MOT, it has a history of minor defects including lighting faults, tire wear, and wheel bearing play. No aggregate reliability data exists for this model, but its niche status suggests specialist maintenance needs.
No aggregate MOT data available for the Caterham Seven S3, but its niche status suggests potential challenges with parts availability and specialist servicing.
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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