2014 BMW 116 1.6L Petrol · GL14 LGV

The 2014 BMW 116 presents a mixed maintenance picture. The most recent MOT on 3 February 2025 at 81,265 miles was a pass, but it carried five advisories, indicating a worsening trend compared to the clean tests of previous years. The tester flagged damage to three tyres, play in the steering rack inner joint, and worn, pitted front brake discs. These are not immediate failures, but they point to deferred attention on core suspension and braking components. The car has moved from a period of consistent, trouble-free testing into one where wear is accumulating without evident repair. Mileage progression is steady and typical for a 12-year-old car. Recorded mileages climb from 59,271 in December 2020 to 72,933 in December 2022, then to 77,440 in January 2024, and finally to 81,265 in February 2025. That is roughly 6,800 miles per year, with no sudden jumps or suspicious gaps. The vehicle appears to have been used regularly rather than sitting idle, which generally favours mechanical health over long-term standing corrosion. The record is complete with no missing annual tests, giving a reliable picture of condition over time. A buyer should focus on the front end and braking system during any inspection. The February 2025 advisories for steering rack inner joint play and pitted front brake discs suggest the car may have been driven hard or neglected on routine checks. Worn discs can indicate binding calipers or aggressive driving, while rack play often points to worn inner track rod ends or bushings. Both issues can worsen quickly and affect handling precision. The three damaged tyres also raise a question about kerbing damage or poor alignment, which could be linked to the steering wear. Beyond the flagged items, check for corrosion on subframes, suspension mounting points, and around the rear arches, as these are common on older BMWs. Inspect the exhaust for leaks or deterioration, and verify that the engine mounts and suspension bushes are not splitting. The clean tests between 2021 and 2024 suggest the car was well cared for in the past, but the cluster of advisories in 2025 signals that basic upkeep may have slipped. A thorough test drive over rough surfaces and a full underbody inspection are essential before purchase.