2012 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · LL62 OVA

The BMW 520 passed its most recent MOT on 24 February 2025 at 145 805 miles, but the test only recorded advisories on near‑side front and rear tyres worn close to the legal limit. After a series of failures in 2018‑2023—including a fractured rear coil spring, thin brake pads, non‑working position lamps and a faulty wiper—the latest result shows a clear improvement in mechanical condition. However, the 18‑month gap since that pass means the vehicle has been unassessed by the MOT system for a considerable period, leaving room for unseen deterioration. Mileage has progressed from roughly 96 932 miles in September 2015 to 145 805 miles in February 2025, an average increase of about 10 400 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for a 14‑year‑old BMW. The MOT entries are clustered annually until 2023, with a double entry in early 2023 (a pass and a subsequent failure) and then a pass in early 2024. The most recent test is the longest interval between assessments in the recorded history, a factor that warrants caution. A buyer should inspect the rear coil spring for any fracture or fatigue, as a broken spring was logged in February 2023. Brake pads need close scrutiny; the 2018 test noted pads under 1.5 mm thickness, indicating possible wear. Tyre condition is critical—near‑side front and rear tyres show edge wear, and rear‑tyre tread was below 1.6 mm in late 2021. Headlamp aim and position lamp operation should be verified, given past non‑compliance. The wiper blade performance must be tested after the 2021 failure to clear the windscreen effectively. Finally, check for oil leaks and corrosion around the under‑tray, a concern first noted in 2015. Structural integrity appears stable, but the under‑tray fitted in 2015 and signs of oil leakage suggest potential under‑body corrosion. A visual inspection for rust spots, fluid stains and secure mounting of the tray is advisable. The combination of ageing components, a long MOT gap and recurring wear items means a comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection is essential before any purchase decision.