2016 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · AJ16 NTX

A pattern of thin brake pads on all four wheels dominates the mechanical narrative of this 2016 BMW 520, with advisories recorded in 2019, 2023, and 2024 and a tyre‑wear advisory added in 2024; despite these recurring consumable alerts, the most recent MOT on 9 March 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle has so far avoided any hard‑failure items. The absence of outright failures across seven tests suggests structural and major system integrity has remained within acceptable limits, while the gradual accumulation of wear‑related advisories points to routine consumable degradation rather than systemic faults. At 97 377 miles the car averages just under 10 000 miles per year, a mileage rate that sits comfortably within the typical range for a ten‑year‑old executive saloon. The MOT record shows regular annual testing with only a single twelve‑month gap between the January 2022 and June 2019 tests, implying the vehicle has been kept on the road rather than stored for extended periods. This usage level means that wear items such as brake pads, tyres and suspension components will have experienced normal ageing, but the relatively modest annual distance also reduces the likelihood of accelerated drivetrain wear compared with high‑mileage equivalents. Prospective buyers should concentrate on the brake system: all pads have been flagged as approaching the minimum thickness, so a full brake service—including replacement of front and rear pads, inspection of the discs for scoring or glazing, and a check of caliper operation—is advisable before committing to purchase. During a test drive listen for any squealing or grinding on deceleration, feel for pedal sponginess or judder, and watch for uneven pad wear that could indicate sticking calipers or warped discs. The off‑side front tyre was noted as close to the legal limit in 2024; verify tread depth on both front tyres, assess for sidewall cracks or edge wear, and be prepared to replace the tyre if the remaining tread is below the 1.6 mm legal minimum. The 2020 advisory about undertrays obscuring inspection hints at possible corrosion or debris buildup beneath the chassis; a visual inspection of the underbody, especially around the sump, exhaust hangers and wheel arches, is warranted to confirm there is no rust perforation or compromised mounting points. While no suspension faults have been recorded, checking the condition of the front suspension bushes, rear trailing arms and any audible clunks over bumps will help ensure that wear has not progressed unnoticed. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection that addresses these specific areas will give a clear picture of any imminent maintenance costs and the overall roadworthiness of the car.