2016 BMW 650i: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the BMW 650i first registered in 2016: we looked at the 161 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: there were only 161 MOTs of these cars during 2023–2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
Common 2016 BMW 650i MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2016 BMW 650i MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Tyres27% 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.
- Brakes9% 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.
- Oil and fluid leaks7% 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.
- Suspension5% 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.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors3% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
- Lights and electrics3% 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 2016 BMW 650i
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 650i?
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 650i compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 124 | Tyres 23% |
| 2015 | 121 | Tyres 17% |
| 2011 | 217 | Tyres 21% |
| 2008 | 306 | Tyres 23% |
| 2007 | 732 | Suspension 28% |
| 2006 | 1,222 | Brakes 32% |
| 2005 | 330 | Suspension 32% |
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 650i cars first registered in 2016. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score