2012 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · BWS 385

The vehicle remains in roadworthy condition, though the maintenance trend shows a persistent issue with front suspension components. The most recent test in September 2025 at 59,598 miles identified slight play in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint. This defect is recurring, having appeared in both 2021 and 2022, indicating that while the components have not yet reached the point of failure, they have not been replaced during those intervals. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a fourteen-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,257 miles per year. The data shows consistent, low-volume usage, with intervals of roughly 2,300 to 3,700 miles between annual tests from 2021 to 2025. While this low mileage suggests less wear on the drivetrain and engine internals, long periods of standing can often lead to the degradation of rubber-based components, seals, and bushings, which aligns with the recurring suspension issues noted. A prospective buyer should focus their physical inspection specifically on the front lower suspension arms and associated ball joints. Since the tester flagged both the nearside and offside joints in 2022 and the nearside again in 2025, the entire assembly is likely nearing the end of its service life. You should also check for signs of dry rot on tyre sidewalls, as low-mileage vehicles often suffer from age-related rubber hardening rather than tread wear. Inspect the brake discs for surface corrosion, which is frequently seen on cars that have been driven infrequently.