1993 BMW 850 5.0L Petrol · E31 AJP

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding mechanical seals and rubber components. While it passed its most recent test in June 2025 at 90,164 miles, this followed a failure just four days prior at 90,068 miles. That failure revealed significant issues including a faulty electronic stability control lamp and a detached suspension bush on the offside rear. The presence of persistent oil and hydraulic leaks from the rear active suspension unit across multiple years indicates long-term weeping that is currently being monitored rather than rectified. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 33-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 2,700 miles per year. The data shows very little movement between tests, with only 1,176 miles recorded over the three-year span between June 2022 and June 2025. This low usage suggests the car sits for long periods, which explains the recurring physical degradation of rubber-based parts. The cracking and perishing noted on the tyres in 2025 are classic symptoms of age-related dry rot rather than tread-related wear. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension system and structural integrity. The tester has flagged corrosion on all four coil springs since at least 2022, and the severely deteriorated ball joint dust covers noted in 2025 suggest rubber components are failing. The slight corrosion on the offside rear inner sill requires a close-up to ensure the rust has not progressed into a structural failure. Given the recurring hydraulic leak in the active suspension unit, the buyer should verify the fluid levels and the condition of the hoses and actuators to ensure the leak has not transitioned from a minor weep to a functional risk.