2008 BMW 3 Series 2.0L Diesel · V10 TBM
2008 BMW 3 Series (2.0L, diesel). First registered 13 Jun 2008. Recorded mileage 94,691 miles. MOT valid until 07 May 2027. Taxed until 01 May 2027. A manufacturer safety recall is currently outstanding.
- Make & Model
- BMW 3 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 2008 · Worcester
- Safety Recall
- Recall Notice
- MOT Status
- Valid until 07 May 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 May 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 94,691 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Outstanding Safety Recall Notice
Action RequiredOfficial DVSA telemetry indicates this vehicle has an unaddressed manufacturer safety recall. Remedial repairs are legally required to be carried out 100% free of charge by an authorised main dealer.
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.
V10 TBM Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Outstanding manufacturer safety recall notice
- Latest MOT passed on 06/05/2026
- 94,691 miles recorded at latest MOT
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (5 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
V10 TBM 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 2008 BMW 3 Series (V10 TBM) between January 2022 and May 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 10 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (5 issues), Suspension (2 issues), Tyres (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 10 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.
V10 TBM Mileage History
- 14/01/202274,347 mi
- 09/05/202374,986 mi+639 mi
- 15/04/202481,948 mi+6,962 mi
- 07/05/202587,674 mi+5,726 mi
- 06/05/202694,691 mi+7,017 mi
Average of roughly 4,723 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 3 Series (E90/E91/E92/E93)
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
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
This 2008 BMW 3 Series is a solid, well-maintained example that has clearly been looked after by its recent owners. While the age suggests potential for wear-related repairs, the clean MOT pass in May 2026 indicates it is currently in good health.
When inspecting this vehicle, pay close attention to the service history to ensure the engine oil and filters have been changed regularly, as diesel engines of this era rely on clean oil for longevity. Check for any signs of oil leaks around the engine bay, as the 2.0-litre diesel units can develop minor seeps as they age.
Negotiate based on the age of the vehicle and the fact that suspension components like shock absorbers have previously shown signs of misting. Even though they passed, they are items that will eventually require replacement, so ensure the ride quality feels firm and composed during your test drive.
As a 2008 diesel, this vehicle is likely to offer decent fuel economy for motorway driving, though it may be subject to higher VED (road tax) rates compared to newer, cleaner-burning engines. Insurance groups for the 3 Series can be on the higher side, so get a quote before committing.
Maintenance costs for an 18-year-old BMW can be higher than average due to the cost of parts and potential for electronic or sensor-related issues. You should budget for a professional independent specialist rather than a main dealer to keep annual running costs manageable, estimated at £1,200-£1,500 including fuel, insurance, and routine servicing.
Focus your inspection on the areas flagged in previous MOTs, specifically the brake discs and hoses. Although these were noted as advisory in 2022, they are critical safety components; ensure the car stops in a straight line without pulling or shuddering.
Check the rear sub-frame and floor pan, as these were noted for corrosion in 2022. While it was not deemed 'seriously weakened' at the time, it is worth crawling underneath with a torch to ensure the rust has not progressed. Finally, check the condition of the tyres, as the vehicle has a history of edge wear, which can indicate tracking or alignment issues.
At 18 years old, this silver diesel 3 Series has covered a relatively modest 94,691 miles. The MOT history is encouraging, showing a progression from several advisory items in 2022 to a completely clean pass in 2026. It represents a practical choice for a buyer looking for a premium saloon, provided they are prepared for the maintenance requirements of an older German diesel engine.
The BMW 3 Series is generally regarded as a robust executive saloon, though owners should be aware that high-mileage examples require diligent maintenance of suspension and braking systems.
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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