2015 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · LO65 XTW

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 30 December 2024—just six months ago—confirms it remains roadworthy with no defects recorded. This suggests the car has passed all mandatory checks for brakes, suspension, exhaust emissions, and structural integrity at the time of testing. However, the absence of defects in the last two tests does not negate the need for a thorough inspection, as the earlier history reveals recurring issues that warrant closer scrutiny. The pattern of passing tests without advisories in the last year contrasts with the 2023 and 2021 failures, indicating either improved maintenance or a vehicle that has been driven with less aggressive wear. That said, the 2021 brake pad advisory and the 2023 tyre condition flags imply past neglect of consumable components, which could recur if not addressed. The mileage progression shows a steady accumulation of approximately 9,952 miles per year, consistent with typical usage for its age. There are no prolonged gaps or abrupt spikes in mileage between tests, suggesting the car has been driven regularly rather than left stationary for extended periods. The most notable interval is between the 2021 and 2023 tests, where the vehicle covered 8,741 miles in just under two years—still within an acceptable range. While this rate does not indicate excessive wear, it does mean the suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components have been under moderate but sustained load, potentially accelerating minor wear beyond what might be expected from lighter usage. A buyer should prioritise an inspection of the front tyres , particularly for perishing or cracking, as the 2023 MOT explicitly flagged this condition on both near and offside front tyres. This suggests either age-related degradation or past underinflation, both of which can compromise tyre integrity. The 2021 advisory for a missing piece of friction material on the near-side front brake pad indicates uneven wear, which could recur if the pads were not replaced or if the caliper binding was not addressed. Given the age of the vehicle, the rear brakes should also be checked for binding or uneven wear, as this is a common failure point in BMWs of this era. Finally, the suspension bushes and coil springs—critical for structural stability—should be examined for excessive play, corrosion, or deformation, especially if the car has been driven on uneven surfaces or in wet conditions. The lack of advisories in the last two tests does not preclude these areas from requiring attention.