1998 BMW 523 2.5L Petrol · 66 CB

The vehicle holds a current MOT certificate valid until August 2026, following a pass on August 5, 2025. While the final outcome of the most recent tests resulted in a pass, the record shows a pattern of initial failures occurring on the same day as the subsequent passes in both 2024 and 2025. This suggests that technical issues were identified and rectified within the same 24-hour window during these inspections. The overall trend remains stable, as the vehicle has successfully cleared its annual assessments for the past three years. With a total of 79,168 miles recorded over 28 years, the vehicle averages approximately 2,827 miles per annum. This low usage rate indicates the car has spent significant periods in storage or saw only occasional light duty. While low mileage often preserves drivetrain components, it can lead to the degradation of rubber seals, gaskets, and hydraulic lines due to inactivity. The consistency of the annual testing schedule from 2023 to 2025 confirms the vehicle has been active and submitted for inspection regularly in recent years. Prospective buyers should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the chassis and subframes, as 1990s BMW models are prone to corrosion in hidden structural areas that may not always be captured by a standard MOT. Given the age of the vehicle, examine all flexible brake hoses and suspension bushes for signs of dry rot or perishing, which often occur in low-mileage examples. A detailed check of the cooling system and engine bay for fluid leaks is also advisable, as long-term standing can cause seals to harden and fail under pressure. Buying score 60, Risk level Medium.