2023 BMW 420i: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the BMW 420i first registered in 2023: we looked at the 203 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: there were only 203 MOTs of these cars during 2023–2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
Common 2023 BMW 420i MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2023 BMW 420i MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Tyres13% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Brakes4% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Lights and electrics1% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2023 BMW 420i
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
Looking at a BMW 420i?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the BMW 420i compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 3,679 | Tyres 20% |
| 2021 | 6,816 | Tyres 22% |
| 2020 | 7,386 | Tyres 24% |
| 2019 | 13,425 | Tyres 26% |
| 2018 | 14,860 | Tyres 27% |
| 2017 | 7,804 | Tyres 28% |
| 2016 | 7,491 | Tyres 27% |
| 2015 | 6,580 | Tyres 28% |
| 2014 | 4,157 | Tyres 29% |
| 2013 | 268 | Tyres 31% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test done in Great Britain during 2023–2025, counting the MOTs of BMW 420i cars first registered in 2023. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score