Compare BMW 3 Series vehicle health check quotes from specialist garages

Looming hundreds of feet up in Munich's skyline is BMW's headquarters, a vast and impressive building designed to look like four engine cylinders - the configuration that drove much of the brand's early success.

BMW has come a long way since 1927, when it produced its first car, the Dixi, shortly to be renamed the BMW 3/15. In 2022, it was awarded 'Best Manufacturer' at the AutoCar Britain's Best Car Awards, and the same year, it triumphed at the WhatCar? Awards, winning more accolades than any other brand. The M5 special edition, celebrating 20 years of BMW motorsport, is one of the rarest M automobiles in the world.

See how BMW's maintenance prices compare to Audi and Mercedes in this guide.

A vehicle health check (VHC) is the easiest way to get peace of mind about your car's condition. If you find a comprehensive VHC, it will function as a transmission health check, engine health check, and car fluids health check rolled into one.

This guide to vehicle inspections discusses everything that might be included and how much it's likely to cost. Alternatively, check out the Q&A section below for a quick overview.

What's included in a vehicle health check? A technician will visually inspect the wheels, brakes, engine, exhaust, tyres, steering, wiper blades and fluid levels. After this, they will compile a report, including any recommended work.

Is a car health check free? Some businesses offer free basic health checks. Still, you'll have to pay if you're looking for a robust report - especially as a pre-purchase inspection before buying your next car.

Health check vs MOT - are they the same thing? The answer is a resounding no. An MOT is a standard annual test required by law, whereas a health check is an optional safety check-up.