2011 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · LD11 FSS

The BMW 520d with the 2.0-litre N47 diesel engine typically returns 50-60 mpg on a run, dropping to 35-45 mpg in town, making it economical for a car of this size. Insurance sits in group 30-32 for the 520d, which is moderate for an executive saloon. Road tax for a 2011 diesel 520d falls into a higher band due to its original CO2 emissions, so budget for the standard rate applicable to vehicles registered between 2001 and 2017.

Servicing costs are higher than mainstream brands, with annual services typically costing £200-£400 depending on whether you use a BMW specialist or a main dealer. Common maintenance items include brake fluid changes, diesel filter replacements, and timing chain inspections. The timing chain on the N47 engine is a particularly costly repair if it fails, so factor this into any negotiation.

Annual running costs including fuel, tax, insurance, and maintenance are likely to be in the region of £2,000-£2,500 for a typical driver covering around 8,000 miles. This is broadly in line with other executive diesel saloons of similar age, though parts and specialist labour costs for BMW are notably higher than for volume manufacturers.

Given the MOT history, prioritise a physical inspection of the suspension system, particularly the front lower suspension arms and rear lower suspension arms where ball joint play was identified in 2024. Jack the car and check for excessive play in the wheels by hand, and listen for knocking sounds over speed bumps. Also inspect the brake discs and pads on the front axle, as both 2022 and 2023 tests flagged wear in these areas, suggesting they may need replacement again by now given the 4,500 miles covered since the last advisory.

The N47 2.0-litre diesel engine in the 2011 520d has a known reputation for timing chain stretch, particularly on earlier units. Listen for a rattle on cold start, which is the classic symptom, and check the service history for any previous chain replacement. Also inspect the exhaust system for signs of DPF issues, including warning lights or excessive soot, as diesel models used primarily for short trips can suffer from blocked DPFs.

Beyond the MOT-flagged items, inspect the car for general condition including bodywork, interior wear (particularly on seat bolsters which wear quickly on 5 Series models), and check all electrical systems including the iDrive infotainment, sat-nav functionality, and climate control. A pre-purchase inspection by a BMW specialist is strongly recommended given the age and complexity of the vehicle, typically costing £150-£250 but potentially saving thousands in unforeseen repairs.