2013 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · GV13 GVD

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2013 BMW 520 was conducted on 2025-10-11, resulting in a passing grade. This follows a consistent pattern of passing tests from 2020 onwards, with no failures or critical defects recorded in the past five years. The advisory from the 2020 MOT—near-side rear tyre nail—was a minor non-critical issue, and the front brake disc wear noted in 2025 is a common finding for this age of vehicle, indicating that the braking system has been subject to moderate usage without severe degradation. The absence of repeated failures or worsening conditions suggests a stable maintenance profile, though the brake disc wear advisory warrants closer attention to ensure it does not progress to a point requiring replacement before the next MOT. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 84,559 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 6,505 miles per year, which is typical for a 13-year-old car with a moderate driving profile. The steady accumulation of miles over the years, without significant gaps or rapid mileage spikes, implies consistent but not necessarily heavy use. While lower mileage might suggest periods of inactivity, the wear patterns observed in the MOT advisories—particularly the tyre edge wear and sidewall damage—are more likely influenced by driving habits rather than prolonged idling. This could include aggressive cornering, high-speed driving, or uneven load distribution, which accelerate tyre degradation and contribute to the observed wear. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front brake system, given the 2025 advisory on worn, pitted, or scored discs. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a grinding or squeaking noise during braking, or signs of brake fluid contamination, which could indicate disc warping or warping of the brake pads. Inspect the discs for deep grooves, excessive thickness reduction, or signs of glazing, and check the caliper operation for binding or excessive play. If the discs are significantly worn to within 1.5mm of their minimum legal thickness, replacement will be necessary, and this should be prioritised before the next MOT to avoid a failure. Additionally, verify that the brake fluid is free of moisture and has not degraded over time, as this can lead to brake system failure. Beyond the brakes, the tyres present several advisories that require attention. The edge wear and sidewall cracking indicate that the tyres have been subjected to stress, likely from aggressive driving or underinflation. On a test drive, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could suggest misalignment or suspension issues, and listen for clunking noises from the rear wheels, particularly when transitioning between rough and smooth surfaces. The near-side rear tyre nail from 2020 suggests a puncture that was repaired, so ensure the repair is still intact and that the tyre’s remaining tread depth is sufficient to prevent hydroplaning. For the off-side front tyre cracking, visually inspect the sidewall for signs of dry rot, which can compromise the tyre’s structural integrity and lead to sudden failure. Replace tyres showing significant sidewall damage or those nearing their legal minimum tread depth before they become a safety risk. Finally, consider a visual inspection of the vehicle’s suspension components, including the coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, for signs of wear or leaks, as the BMW’s suspension system has been exposed to significant mileage.