DVSA Statistics
1985 BMW 5 Series
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
There isn't much MOT data yet for the 1985 BMW 5 Series (only 35 tests in our DVSA dataset), so these figures are a rough guide. We still highlight common failure items below so you can check before your MOT.
Pass Rate
Based on 35 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
85.7%
Higher than average
Limited data available for this model; results may be less representative.
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Quick DIY Fix
Windscreen wipers are easy to replace yourself.
Based on DVSA statistics from 35 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1985 BMW 5 Series
Based on common failure points for this model, check these items before your MOT:
- 1
Listen for knocks or clunks when driving over bumps - bounce each corner
Suspension – Common fail on this model
- 2
Check for excessive play in steering wheel - should be minimal free movement
Steering – Common fail on this model
- 3
Check windscreen for chips or cracks in the driver view zone (Zone A)
Visibility – Common fail on this model
How Does This Compare to Other Years?
Previous Year
1984 BMW 5 Series
Based on 1 UK MOT tests
Next Year
1986 BMW 5 Series
Based on 38 UK MOT tests
The 1985 model has a lower pass rate than 1984, but performs better than 1986.
Why Trust This Data?
Official UK Government Source
This data comes from the UK's Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), the official body responsible for MOT testing standards. The anonymised MOT test data is published via data.gov.uk.
Understanding the Statistics
This page is based on 35 MOT tests from the 2023 DVSA dataset. Your 1985 BMW 5 Series was 38 years old when this data was collected and is now 41 years old.
Sample Size
Limited data - 35 tests (use as rough guide only)
Limitations
Statistics reflect average outcomes and don't account for maintenance history, mileage, or regional variations. Individual results will vary based on how well a vehicle has been maintained.
Do you own this car?
Check your specific vehicle for outstanding advisories or recalls. Get a personalized risk report for your exact BMW 5 Series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1985 BMW 5 Series likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1985 BMW 5 Series has a 85.7% MOT pass rate. This is above average, indicating good reliability for a vehicle of this age.
What are the most common MOT failures on a 1985 BMW 5 Series?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1985 BMW 5 Series are: a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn, body, cab or chassis excessively corroded at a mounting point, vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is seriously reduced. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.
How can I reduce the chance my 1985 BMW 5 Series fails its MOT?
To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn, body, cab or chassis excessively corroded at a mounting point, vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is seriously reduced. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1985 BMW 5 Seriess fail their MOT?
Around 14% of 1985 BMW 5 Seriess fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 7 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn and body, cab or chassis excessively corroded at a mounting point. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1985 BMW 5 Series MOT?
Before your 1985 BMW 5 Series MOT, check these commonly-failed items: a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn, body, cab or chassis excessively corroded at a mounting point, vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is seriously reduced. Most are visual checks you can do at home – look for worn tyres, test all lights work, and check for obvious damage or leaks.
Is the 1985 BMW 5 Series reliable for MOT?
With a 85.7% MOT pass rate, the 1985 BMW 5 Series performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.