2002 BMW 535i: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the BMW 535i first registered in 2002: we looked at the 105 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: there were only 105 MOTs of these cars during 2023–2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
Common 2002 BMW 535i MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2002 BMW 535i MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Brakes39% 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.
- Suspension39% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Oil and fluid leaks34% of testsRough price £80–£600
At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.
- Lights and electrics29% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Tyres23% 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.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors14% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2002 BMW 535i
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 535i?
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 535i compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 275 | Tyres 23% |
| 2015 | 424 | Tyres 23% |
| 2014 | 295 | Tyres 20% |
| 2013 | 174 | Tyres 25% |
| 2012 | 154 | Tyres 21% |
| 2011 | 295 | Tyres 23% |
| 2010 | 347 | Tyres 23% |
| 2001 | 122 | Suspension 34% |
| 2000 | 180 | Oil and fluid leaks 33% |
| 1999 | 195 | Brakes 35% |
| 1998 | 273 | Brakes 37% |
| 1997 | 126 | Brakes 36% |
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 535i cars first registered in 2002. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score