2008 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · LB08 BVX

This BMW 520’s most recent MOT test in January 2022—just 4 years and 6,354 miles ago—confirms a clean pass with no defects, though the preceding November 2021 test reveals a concerning pattern of neglect. The vehicle failed twice in quick succession at 117,637 and 117,640 miles, with the same three issues: an excessive oil leak, a minor exhaust gas leak, and a missing jack mounting bracket. The fact that these faults persisted despite a partial pass (where only the oil leak was flagged as a fail) suggests either a lack of proper attention to maintenance or a failure to address known problems. The most recent clean pass does not negate the earlier failures, which indicate potential deeper issues—particularly with the engine’s oil containment or exhaust system integrity—that may have been temporarily overlooked. The recorded mileage of 119,994 miles over 18 years equates to an average of around 6,666 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the abrupt accumulation of 2,354 miles between the November 2021 failures and the January 2022 pass—followed by no further tests—raises questions about whether the vehicle was driven sporadically or sat unused. The gap between the 2021 and 2022 tests is unusually long for a car of this mileage, and without intermediate maintenance records, it’s impossible to confirm whether critical components like brakes, suspension, or cooling systems were serviced during this period. The lack of recent MOT history (the last test was over 4 years ago) means no independent verification of current condition exists. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the engine bay for signs of persistent oil leaks, particularly around the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing. The recurring exhaust gas leak suggests potential corrosion or damage to the front exhaust manifold or joints, which could worsen over time. The missing jack mounting bracket—while minor—implies a lack of basic upkeep, and similar wear could exist elsewhere in the chassis or suspension. The brakes were not explicitly mentioned in the failures, but the 2021 test’s proximity to the current mileage means they should be checked for uneven wear or binding calipers. Structural integrity, especially around the wheel arches and sills, should also be scrutinised for corrosion, as this model is prone to rust in those areas after prolonged exposure.