2016 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · AV55 MAT

The most recent MOT, carried out on 28 February 2026, was passed but returned three advisories – both rear brake pads are reported as thin, the nearside front tyre is close to the legal tread limit and shows edge wear. Earlier in the record, the 20 December 2024 test failed on the basis of a cut rear tyre and multiple tyres close to the legal limit, indicating that tyre condition has been a recurring concern. Apart from the tyre issues, the MOT history from 2019 to 2023 shows a clean bill of health with no recorded defects, suggesting that the vehicle has generally been maintained to an acceptable standard but that tyre and brake wear have begun to accelerate in the last two years. At 85,125 miles the car is roughly ten years old, giving an average annual mileage of about 8,500 miles. This is within the normal UK usage envelope and does not point to excessive wear from high mileage. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage, which implies the car has not spent prolonged periods idle that could exacerbate rubber perishing or corrosion. The modest annual distance means that major drivetrain components such as the timing chain, transmission and differential are unlikely to be near the end of their service lives, but consumables that correlate with mileage – brake pads, rotors and tyres – will be approaching the end of their useful life. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the tyre and brake wear noted in the latest MOT. Inspect all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall cracking and any cuts or bulges; the nearside front tyre is already close to the legal limit and the rear tyres may be near the end of their serviceable life given the previous cut. On a test drive listen for any thumping or vibration that could indicate uneven tyre wear or a developing suspension issue, and feel for any pull to one side which may betray a mis‑aligned wheel or worn bushings. Examine the rear brake pads for remaining thickness – a pad thickness below 2 mm is typically considered unsafe – and check the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing; any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes would confirm the need for replacement soon. Beyond the immediate wear items, the car’s age warrants a thorough check of time‑related components. Verify the condition of the 12‑volt battery, looking for corrosion on the terminals and testing the charge level, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity. Inspect the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid for signs of contamination or low levels; fluids should be changed at least every two years regardless of mileage. Look for any rust on the chassis, wheel arches and suspension mounts, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes, filter replacements and any scheduled BMW service actions, as a well‑documented service history will give confidence that the vehicle has been cared for throughout its life.