2017 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · SL67 GUA

The most recent MOT test, conducted on 2025-09-11, returned a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround from the vehicle’s previous history. While the 2021 failure—where both offside and nearside front shock absorbers exhibited serious fluid leaks—was a notable outlier, the subsequent five MOTs since then have all passed without incident, indicating a return to a stable maintenance profile. However, the persistence of shock absorber fluid leaks in 2021 suggests underlying wear or manufacturing issues that may have been exacerbated by previous service failures. Buyers should proceed with caution, as this defect category often correlates with progressive suspension degradation, which, if left unaddressed, could lead to reduced handling stability, uneven tyre wear, or even suspension failure under load. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 75,360 miles at 9 years old represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,373 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a BMW of this class. The absence of significant mileage spikes or prolonged periods of high usage suggests that the car has not been subjected to extreme wear conditions, though the 2021 failure period—where the vehicle may have been driven more frequently—could have accelerated component fatigue. The 2021 MOT failure also occurred during a calendar year with a lower recorded mileage increase (from 70,000 to 75,360 miles over roughly 12 months), hinting that the shocks may have been compromised by prolonged inactivity or minor impacts rather than sustained high-mileage wear. Regardless, the 2021 incident underscores the importance of monitoring suspension components for leaks, clunks, or excessive rebound damping during a test drive. Given the vehicle’s clean MOT history since 2021 and the moderate mileage, the most critical areas for inspection focus on the suspension system, given the history of fluid leaks. On a test drive, listen for harsh clunking or rattling from the front suspension, particularly when transitioning between rough and smooth road surfaces, as this could indicate worn suspension bushes or broken coil spring mounts. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misaligned steering or suspension misalignment, and inspect the tyres for signs of excessive cupping or feathering, as these can result from worn shocks. Additionally, visually confirm that the shock absorbers have no visible fluid leaks around the base or mounting points, and that the springs remain intact without sagging or excessive deflection. If the shocks are replaced, ensure they are fitted with O-rings and seals to prevent future fluid leaks. Beyond the suspension, buyers should also conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, rocker panels, and underbody, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate rust progression in a car of this age. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, which may indicate standing corrosion or warping from overheating. Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for contamination or bubbles, as this can signal fluid degradation or a failing master cylinder. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12-volt battery should be tested for charge capacity and terminal corrosion, with a recommendation to replace it if it fails to hold a charge or shows signs of sulphation. Finally, verify that the service book records include the mandatory time-based fluid servicing—specifically, the engine oil and filter change, transmission fluid, and coolant flush—all of which should have been completed by the 100,000-mile mark or within the last 12 months, whichever is earlier. For a 75,360-mile car, a comprehensive fluid refresh (including brake, differential, and power steering fluids) is advisable, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage.