2004 BMW X5 3.0L Diesel · JN04 ASN

The vehicle’s most recent MOT on 2025-12-01 at 274,445 miles recorded a pass with no defects, indicating a stable maintenance trend over the past 18 months. Previous tests from 2024-11-18 (272,038 miles) and 2023-10-24 (269,124 miles) also passed without issues, suggesting consistent upkeep. However, a failed test on 2023-10-20 at the same mileage as the subsequent pass raises questions about potential unresolved concerns, though no defects were logged. The absence of structural, braking, or emission failures in recent records implies the car has been maintained to meet legal standards, but high mileage at 22 years old necessitates closer scrutiny of wear-prone components. The vehicle’s mileage of 274,445 miles over 22 years equates to approximately 12,475 miles annually, exceeding typical usage for its age. This rate accelerates wear on consumables like tyres and suspension bushes, though no such defects are noted in the MOT history. A notable gap exists between the 2022-10-07 test (262,495 miles) and the 2023-10-20 failure, spanning 12 months with 6,629 miles recorded. This period may reflect either infrequent use or incomplete record-keeping, but the subsequent pass suggests issues were addressed. The lack of corrosion, exhaust, or steering-related failures in recent tests is positive, yet the car’s age and mileage demand verification of underlying mechanical integrity. A buyer should prioritise inspecting the suspension system for worn bushes or coil springs, which are common wear points on high-mileage BMW X5s. The rear brakes, prone to binding in this model, warrant close examination, as well as the exhaust system for hidden corrosion. While no structural rust or major defects are documented, the 2023 failure—though unspecified—indicates a need to confirm repairs were fully resolved. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a pre-purchase inspection should focus on drivetrain components, brake discs, and fluid leaks to assess long-term reliability beyond the MOT records.