2020 BMW 740: common problems and what to check
What gets flagged at MOT on 2020 BMW 740s, from 184 tests in 2025, plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: only 184 of these were MOT tested in 2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
What gets flagged at MOT
The share of 2020 BMW 740 MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Tyres16% 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.
- Brakes5% 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.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors5% 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.
- Driveshafts and joints1% of testsRough price £60–£350
At the viewing: On full steering lock, drive slowly and listen for clicking from the front wheels.
- Oil and fluid leaks1% 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.
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Other years
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 460 | Tyres 21% |
| 2018 | 492 | Tyres 21% |
| 2017 | 399 | Tyres 16% |
| 2016 | 430 | Tyres 17% |
| 2015 | 122 | Tyres 22% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test in Great Britain in 2025, counting tests of 2020 BMW 740s registered in 2020. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score