2010 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · LL60 ABF

The most recent MOT record from December 2021 resulted in a pass, though it was accompanied by several notable advisories concerning the vehicle's mechanical condition. The maintenance trend indicates a vehicle that is beginning to exhibit standard age-related wear, particularly within the suspension and braking systems. While the vehicle met the minimum legal requirements at the time of testing, the presence of multiple advisories on critical components suggests that the car is entering a period where preventative maintenance will be necessary to ensure continued roadworthiness and to avoid more costly repairs in the near future. With a recorded mileage of 150,527 miles over a sixteen-year period, the vehicle has covered an average of approximately 9,400 miles per year. This represents typical usage for a BMW 5 Series, suggesting the car has been driven regularly enough to prevent the common issues associated with long periods of standing, such as seized calipers or fluid degradation. However, the total mileage is significant and implies that high-stress components, including the suspension bushings, dampers, and various drivetrain elements, will have undergone considerable fatigue and may require inspection or replacement. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the suspension and braking advisories noted in the history. The recorded play in both the nearside and offside front lower suspension arm ball joints is a significant concern. During a test drive, listen closely for any knocking, clunking, or metallic tapping sounds when navigating uneven road surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvres. You should also monitor for any wandering or lack of precision in the steering. Furthermore, the advisory regarding near-side front brake fluctuation suggests potential issues such as warped brake discs or binding calipers. Pay close attention to any vibration or shuddering felt through the brake pedal or steering wheel when applying the brakes, as this is a clear symptom of uneven disc wear or thermal distortion. In addition to the specific mechanical advisories, the damaged windscreen should be inspected for any hairline cracks that could expand due to temperature fluctuations. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay for signs of oil or coolant leaks is essential, as well as a check of the tyre condition for uneven wear patterns which could stem from the previously noted suspension play. It is also highly recommended to verify the service history to ensure that essential consumables, such as brake fluid, coolant, and timing components, have been replaced according to manufacturer intervals, as calendar-based degradation can occur regardless of annual mileage.