2016 BMW M4 3.0L Petrol · CA07 ORA

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-04-03 at 58,778 miles passed without defects, confirming current roadworthiness. However, the history reveals a critical failure in February 2022 at just 40,982 miles, where both rear coil springs fractured and both front tyres exhibited severe ply exposure. This suggests a serious structural issue was addressed, though the absence of defects in subsequent tests implies the repairs were effective. The pattern of failures—tyres and suspension—indicates either deferred maintenance or a period of neglect before correction. The last two MOTs (2024 and 2025) show no issues, but the 2022 failure warrants scrutiny of whether the rear suspension was fully restored or if residual stress could recur. The mileage progression is unusually low for a ten-year-old vehicle, averaging just over 5,800 miles annually. This suggests limited use, though the gap between the 2022 failure (40,982 miles) and the 2023 pass (49,496 miles) implies a 9,000-mile period of either storage or reduced driving. The subsequent tests in 2024 and 2025 show consistent mileage increments of around 400–500 miles per year, which aligns with light usage. While low mileage typically correlates with less wear, the 2022 tyres and suspension failure contradicts this, hinting at either prolonged static loading or a single event causing damage. A buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the rear suspension, particularly the coil springs and mounting points, for signs of stress or fatigue. The 2022 failure on both springs indicates potential for a shared failure mode, such as corrosion or manufacturing defect, and visual confirmation of welds or replacements is essential. Front tyre tread depth and underlying structure should also be rechecked, as the exposed ply suggests either aggressive driving or a prior repair that may not have been fully addressed. Additionally, the brake system—though not failed—should be tested for binding or uneven wear, as the 2022 failure period could have introduced imbalance. Structural integrity of the chassis, especially around the rear axle, should be examined for corrosion or misalignment, given the suspension’s history. The vehicle’s MOT record demonstrates a single, significant repair cycle but otherwise clean performance. While the recent passes are reassuring, the 2022 failures necessitate thorough verification of all corrected components. A pre-purchase inspection should focus on the rear suspension, front tyres, and brake condition to ensure no latent issues remain. The low mileage is a positive indicator for longevity, but the past failure underscores the need for meticulous attention to high-stress areas.