2009 BMW 630 3.0L Petrol · FD58 OFH

The defining mechanical story of this 2009 BMW 630 centres on a suspension and braking system that has demanded repeated attention since at least 2023, with three major suspension component failures recorded across the available MOT history. In March 2023 a nearside front lower suspension arm inner bush was found excessively worn, and a subsequent retest in March 2025 identified a nearside front suspension arm rear ball joint as excessively worn. The most recent test, dated 30 March 2026, recorded a further major failure on the offside front anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover, alongside persistent advisories on front brake disc wear and a brake imbalance that was only just within requirements. The latest result was recorded as a pass once the dust cover and minor lighting and wiper defects were addressed, but the density of major suspension defects within a short window is the most significant feature of the record and the primary concern for any prospective buyer. The recorded mileage of 110,129 miles over 17 years equates to an annual average of approximately 6,478 miles, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a car of this age. The MOT history shows reasonably consistent annual testing from 2022 through 2026, with no prolonged gaps that would indicate extended periods off the road, and the mileage progression between tests appears steady rather than showing any sudden jumps or stagnation. For a vehicle of this type and age, the recorded accumulation is sufficient to produce meaningful wear on consumable items such as brake discs, pads, tyres and suspension bushes, particularly given the front-end components that have already been flagged. Continued use at this rate will place ongoing demand on the same areas that have produced repeated advisories and failures. From a buyer guidance perspective, the front suspension is the area requiring the most thorough inspection. The history shows issues with inner arm bushes, ball joints and anti-roll bar ball joint dust covers on both nearside and offside, suggesting that wear may be progressing across multiple linkages rather than being isolated to a single component. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed bumps or potholes, and pay attention to any vagueness in steering response or clunking when turning at low speed. Inspect the front tyres for uneven inner or outer shoulder wear, which is often indicative of worn suspension bushes or ball joints disturbing wheel alignment. The condition of the anti-roll bar drop links, wishbone inner and outer bushes, and any visible cracking or perishing of rubber components should be checked with the wheels off the ground if possible. The braking system warrants equally close attention given the recurring advisories on front brake disc wear and the recorded brake imbalance. On test, the car should pull up straight and firmly under progressive pedal pressure, with no pulling to either side, vibration through the pedal or steering wheel under heavy braking, and no grinding or scraping noises from the front wheels. The front discs should be inspected for lip measurement, scoring and minimum thickness, as pitted discs have now been flagged in consecutive years and may be approaching the point at which replacement becomes mandatory. Given the cost of front suspension component replacement on a BMW 6 Series, a pre-purchase inspection with the vehicle raised on a ramp is strongly advisable, with particular emphasis on a thorough check of all front suspension arms, bushes, ball joints, anti-roll bar links and steering components, together with a measurement of remaining brake disc and pad material.