2016 BMW 420 2.0L Diesel · BD66 DYU

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT test on 2025-11-11 with a single advisory concerning the offside rear tire, which was recorded as slightly damaged or perishing with splits on the inner wall. This follows a 2024-11-13 test that also passed but carried two advisories, one for both rear tires showing sidewall splitting and perishing, and another for the nearside front tire being worn close to the legal limit and worn on its edge. Earlier tests in 2023, 2022, and 2020 recorded passes with no advisories at all, while a 2022-02-15 test flagged rear brake pads as wearing thin. Overall, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable, with the vehicle consistently passing its annual assessment, but a minor deterioration in tire condition has emerged over the last two test cycles. This pattern is not unusual for a ten-year-old car and does not yet suggest systemic neglect, though it does warrant closer physical inspection of the rolling stock and braking components. The recorded mileage of 72,696 miles across roughly ten years equates to an average annual usage of around 7,270 miles, which is broadly typical for the vehicle's age and consistent with moderate private or mixed-use driving. The MOT records show relatively consistent annual testing with no extended gaps, indicating the vehicle has remained in active service throughout its life rather than being laid up for long periods. This continuous usage is generally favourable for mechanical health, as regular driving tends to keep seals, brakes, and the drivetrain lubricated and free from the binding and corrosion associated with prolonged standing. There are no signs of rapid mileage accumulation that might indicate excessive motorway use or fleet-style operation, and consequently no particular cause for concern regarding premature wear of major mechanical components such as the clutch, turbocharger, or drivetrain mounts. Given the recurring tire advisories across consecutive MOTs, particular attention should be paid to the condition of all four tires during a pre-purchase inspection. Sidewall perishing and cracking, particularly on the rear tires, is often an age-related rubber degradation issue rather than purely a wear phenomenon, and it can affect grip and sidewall integrity even when tread depth appears adequate. The buyer should inspect each sidewall carefully for visible cracks, bulges, or brittleness, and consider replacing all four tires as a precautionary measure on a ten-year-old vehicle regardless of remaining tread. The 2024 advisory regarding nearside front tire wear on the edge is a separate concern, as uneven shoulder wear typically points to misalignment, worn suspension components, or incorrect camber settings. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, check for pulling to one side under braking, and observe whether the steering returns to centre smoothly without vibration. The 2022 advisory concerning thinning rear brake pads should also be followed up, as the pads have likely required replacement in the intervening period and the buyer should verify the date and mileage of the most recent brake service. With a ten-year-old vehicle, even with modest mileage, several calendar-based service items should be confirmed regardless of the MOT record. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking strength, as batteries of this age frequently fail without warning, particularly in colder months. Brake fluid, coolant, and differential or transmission fluid should be checked for service history stamps, as these degrade with time rather than mileage and typically require replacement every two to four years. The exhaust system, including mounting rubbers and the rear silencer, should be inspected for corrosion, and the underbody examined for any surface rust consistent with the vehicle's age. Finally, given BMW's known susceptibility to cooling system component failures in this age bracket, a thorough inspection of the radiator, expansion tank, water pump, and associated hoses for any signs of seepage or staining is highly advisable before purchase.