We've only got 351 MOT tests for BMW i8 models built around 2018 (7 years old). Treat these numbers as a rough guide.
We've only seen a handful of BMW i8 models built around 2018 so far. Too few to spot a pattern yet.
Key figure
Check a car’s number plate to see its own MOT record, or come back when there’s more MOT history.
Before you view it
The BMW i8's most common MOT issues, turned into things to ask about or look for.
Ask when the pads were last replaced and check the warning-light history.
Ask for the date and mileage of the last disc replacement; visually check for a deep wear lip and rust pitting on each disc.
Check tread depth across the full width on all four; uneven wear suggests alignment or suspension issues.
Check the car’s number plate on MOT Wise to see its own MOT history and any recalls for its build years.
By build year
Fail rates have been steady over the last three years. Use the build-year guide below to separate newer build years from older ones.
Find your i8's generation
Each card below is a different generation. Select your year and we'll highlight the match.
Not sure which one you're looking at?
Match your build year to its generation, then see the fail rates for those build years of the BMW i8.
See every build year for the BMW i8By age
This chart combines every BMW i8 ever sold. It's good for the big picture. For one generation, scroll up to the build-year cards.
Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs. Highest fail rate at 9 years old.
All generations of this model
These issues come from 7-year-old BMW i8 models, every generation combined.
In order of the share of MOT tests that recorded each one
Tyre worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edge
Brake pads wearing thin
Tyre slightly damaged, cracking or perishing
Brake disc worn, pitted or scored, but not seriously weakened
Tyre has a cut that does not reach the ply or cords
Based on 351 MOT tests on 7-year-old BMW i8 models, every generation combined.
Still registered
How many of these are still registered in the UK, and what's been recalled across the model.
UK average for cars first registered in 2014 to 2015: 92% · Fewer than typical
The share still registered can reflect demand, the cost of repairs, exports, write-offs and how owners use the car. It isn't proof of how long the car lasts mechanically.
Source: DfT vehicle licensing statistics (VEH0124).
5 of the 6 BMW i8 recalls cover cars built in these years.
Top concerns
For the exact car, check GOV.UK's recall checker with the number plate.
Like-for-like
Same body type, tested at the same age
Lower fail rate: 5.3%, against 9.1% for the BMW i8, both built around 2018.
2,547 MOT tests on cars built around 2018
Same body type, tested at the same age
Lower fail rate: 5.5%, against 9.1% for the BMW i8, both built around 2018.
1,235 MOT tests on cars built around 2018
Same body type, tested at the same age
Fewer dangerous faults: 2.4%, against 4.0% for the BMW i8.
3 critical recall campaigns matching this model/build period.
2,085 MOT tests on cars built around 2018
Same body type, tested at the same age
More still registered at 10 years: 96%, against 79% for the BMW i8.
6,783 MOT tests on cars built around 2018
Common questions
Built around 2018 (7 years old), the BMW i8 across all generations combined fails MOTs noticeably less often than typical for this age. This is based on 351 7-year-old MOT tests from DVSA data. Each retest counts as a test.
