High-confidence used car comparison
BMW 3 Series vs Audi A4: reliability and MOT problems
BMW 3 Series has the lower MOT failure rate in this comparison: 18.6% versus 18.8% for the Audi A4, based on 815,286 combined UK MOT tests. A difference of 0.2% is useful as a signal, but the exact car's MOT history and repair evidence still matter most.
Data sources: DVSA MOT records, official recall records, and MOT fault wording snapshots (2026-04-27, 2026-04-29, rfr_codes_2025-05-12, failure items 2023). Search-indexed model pages must clear 20,000 MOT tests and 10,000 vehicles.
| Model | MOT failure rate | Tests | Vehicles | Median tested mileage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 3 Series | 18.6% | 495,173 tests | 392,827 vehicles | 102,932 miles |
| Audi A4 | 18.8% | 320,113 tests | 251,873 vehicles | 101,704 miles |
Best starting point
BMW 3 Series has the lower recorded MOT failure rate in this pair.
Check before buying
Open both model reports and compare repeat advisories, mileage-band failure rates, recalls, tyres, brakes, suspension, warning lights, and corrosion history.