2011 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · E2 ASX
2011 BMW 520 (2.0L, diesel). First registered 01 Apr 2011. Recorded mileage 167,993 miles. MOT expired on 20 Mar 2026. A manufacturer safety recall is currently outstanding.
- Make & Model
- BMW 520
- Year / Origin
- 2011 · Chelmsford
- Safety Recall
- Recall Notice
- MOT Status
- Expired on 20 Mar 2026
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (01 Jun 2025)
- Recorded Mileage
- 167,993 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- DIESEL · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Available on IAGC
Outstanding Safety Recall Notice
Action RequiredOfficial DVSA telemetry indicates this vehicle has an unaddressed manufacturer safety recall. Remedial repairs are legally required to be carried out 100% free of charge by an authorised main dealer.
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
E2 ASX Key Findings
- 2 MOT tests recorded
- Outstanding manufacturer safety recall notice
- Latest MOT passed on 21/03/2025
- 167,993 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
E2 ASX MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
2 MOT tests are recorded for this 2011 BMW 520 (E2 ASX) between September 2022 and March 2025.
The record contains 2 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 2 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 2 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
E2 ASX Mileage History
- 20/09/2022136,984 mi
- 21/03/2025167,993 mi+31,009 mi
Average of roughly 12,405 miles per year across 2 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution due to high mileage
Given the 167,993 miles recorded in March 2025, your primary focus should be on the service history to see if the high mileage has been matched by regular oil changes. The most recent MOT advisory specifically mentions a nearside front suspension arm ball joint with slight play and an oil leak; you should negotiate the price downwards to account for the cost of these repairs or ensure they are addressed before purchase.
When inspecting this specific 2.0L diesel, check the area around the engine for signs of the oil leak mentioned in the 2025 MOT. Additionally, because the 2021 MOT highlighted worn brake pads and pitted rear discs, verify that the braking system has been fully overhauled since that time. Ask for documentation proving that the suspension components and brakes have been replaced recently.
As a 2.0L diesel, this BMW 520 is designed for efficient long-distance cruising, though real-world fuel economy will depend heavily on how much of that 167,000+ mileage was motorway driving. You should check the specific Euro emission standard to determine if you will face charges in Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ).
Maintenance costs for a vehicle of this age and mileage are expected to be higher than average. Budget for more frequent replacements of wear items like tyres and shock absorbers, which are common failure points for this model according to aggregate data. Typical annual running costs, including fuel, tax, insurance, and maintenance, are estimated to be in the mid-to-high range for an executive saloon.
Start by inspecting the front suspension; the 2025 MOT specifically flagged the nearside front suspension arm ball joint for having 'slight play'. A test drive is essential to listen for knocks or clunks that could indicate further suspension degradation.
Secondly, closely examine the engine bay for the oil leak noted in the latest MOT record. While described as 'not excessive' in 2025, leaks can worsen quickly. Finally, check the condition of the brake discs and pads. The 2021 MOT record shows a history of thin pads and pitted rear discs, so ensure the current braking performance is crisp and free of vibration or squealing.
This 2011 BMW 520 presents with 167,993 miles on the clock, which is significantly higher than the model average of 8,671 miles per year. The MOT history shows a pattern of wear-and-tear issues, including brake components in 2021 and suspension and oil leak advisories in 2025. Potential buyers should weigh the premium feel of this white diesel saloon against the high mileage and recent maintenance requirements.
Aggregate data for this model shows an 82.8% MOT pass rate, with common failures involving tyres, shock absorbers, and brake pads.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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