2009 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · CE09 RYJ

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 19 December 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded, which represents a positive outcome at the point of test. Looking at the broader pattern across the recorded history, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable but with a recurring focus on rear-end consumables. From 2022 onwards, there has been a consistent stream of advisories relating to rear brake discs, rear brake pads, rear brake hoses, and rear tyre wear, all of which are now absent from the latest test, suggesting that remedial work has been carried out in the intervening period. The 2019 test failure, which included a dangerous rear tyre tread depth breach and major anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover defects, is historical and the absence of any recurrence in subsequent tests indicates those issues were addressed at source. Overall, the absence of any structural or corrosion advisories across the entire recorded period is reassuring for a vehicle of this age. With recorded mileage of 170,153 miles over approximately 17 years, the vehicle has averaged around 10,000 miles annually, which is broadly typical and suggests regular if moderate use. There are no significant gaps in the annual MOT pattern that would indicate prolonged standing, which is beneficial as it reduces the risk of seized calipers, deteriorated brake discs from corrosion, perished rubber components, and 12V battery degradation that often afflict low-use vehicles. Equally, the mileage has not been excessive enough to imply severe drivetrain or turbo wear, although at this odometer reading a thorough inspection of the automatic transmission fluid, engine oil condition, and general drivetrain refinement would still be prudent. The continuous annual testing record supports the conclusion that this vehicle has been in active, consistent service. The recurring theme of rear brake and tyre advisories over successive tests warrants particular attention during a pre-purchase inspection. The brake hose deterioration flagged in both 2023 and 2024 is a classic age-related rubber perishing issue, and although not present at the 2025 test, it would be sensible to inspect all flexible brake hoses for surface cracking, swelling under pressure, or weeping at the unions. The rear brake disc and pad wear recorded in 2022 suggests the discs were either machined or replaced at that time, so a current visual check of disc lipping, surface corrosion, and pad material thickness is advisable, alongside verifying that the rear caliper slide pins are free and the handbrake mechanism is self-adjusting correctly. On a test drive, listen for any rear brake squeal, binding when pulling away, or pulling to one side under braking, and check that the rear tyres are wearing evenly across their tread rather than on one shoulder. Beyond the recorded advisory history, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants a number of calendar and usage-based checks regardless of the clean MOT pass. Inspect the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints and dust boots carefully, as the 2019 failure in this area indicates a known weak point, and listen for clonks over speed humps or uneven road surfaces. Check all tyres, including the front pair, for sidewall cracking and perishing which can render a tyre unsafe even with adequate tread depth, and verify that the spare or inflation kit is serviceable. Under the bonnet, inspect the coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid for condition and age, as these degrade on a calendar basis irrespective of mileage, and confirm that the 12V battery holds charge under load. Finally, inspect the exhaust system from the manifold rearwards for corrosion, particularly at mounting points and joints, and check for any oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing, or rear main seal, all of which are common on high-mileage BMW engines of this era.