2005 BMW 730 3.0L Diesel · LG55 AGZ

The latest MOT test conducted in October 2025 resulted in a pass, though it included an advisory for a corroded offside rear brake pipe. When reviewing the broader history, the maintenance trend appears to be declining. Between 2020 and 2022, the vehicle recorded clean passes with no defects, but from 2023 onwards, there has been a marked increase in failures and recurring advisories. This shift from a clean record to multiple issues with suspension components and tyre integrity suggests a transition toward reactive maintenance rather than a preventative regime. The vehicle has covered 100,253 miles over 21 years, averaging approximately 4,774 miles per year. This is considerably low for a luxury saloon of this vintage. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and gearbox, it often introduces specific risks associated with long periods of standing. Low annual usage frequently leads to the premature degradation of rubber compounds and allows corrosion to settle in areas that are not regularly cleared by the heat and movement of frequent long-distance driving. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the chassis and suspension. The history shows a recurring issue with the rear upper suspension arm bushes and a previous failure of the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint. During a test drive, listen for knocks or clunks when traversing uneven road surfaces and feel for any vagueness in the steering. The recent advisory regarding the offside rear brake pipe corrosion is a significant concern; the buyer should physically inspect the brake lines for rust or scaling and ensure the pedal feel is firm. Additionally, given the previous failure of the parking brake, its efficiency must be verified on a gradient. The persistent record of tyre cracking and perishing across various positions is a classic indicator of age-related degradation rather than tread wear. A thorough physical inspection of all tyre sidewalls is essential to check for fine cracks, and the date stamps should be verified to ensure the rubber is not excessively old. Given the low mileage and vehicle age, the buyer should also check for brake disc corrosion or binding calipers resulting from inactivity, verify the health of the 12V battery, and confirm that fluids have been changed based on time intervals rather than mileage alone to prevent internal engine sludge or coolant acidification.