2012 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · LS12 UGV

The latest MOT test result for the 2012 BMW 520 indicates it passed on 2026-09-01, with no recorded defects. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and one major failure, suggesting a need for cautious evaluation. The advisories on suspension arm bush wear—particularly the near- and offside front lower suspension arm pins or bushes—have been consistently noted since 2021, indicating progressive wear that, while not yet severe enough to cause excessive movement, may require closer attention as they degrade further. The 2020 MOT also flagged a nearside rear coil spring fracture, which was a major failure, underscoring the vehicle’s susceptibility to suspension-related issues. These recurring advisories suggest a maintenance trend that has not fully resolved, and while the vehicle remains roadworthy, the wear on suspension components warrants proactive inspection to prevent future failures that could compromise handling or structural integrity. The recorded mileage of 137,352 miles for a 14-year-old BMW 520 represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 9,811 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage patterns for this model in its age group. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit details on periods of low or high mileage accumulation, but the presence of multiple advisories and one major failure suggests that the vehicle has undergone significant wear, particularly in suspension and braking systems. Higher mileage generally accelerates the degradation of consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and coil springs, which aligns with the observed defects. It is also possible that the vehicle has been subjected to prolonged periods of standing, which can exacerbate issues such as brake disc corrosion, binding calipers, or fluid degradation due to stagnation. Before proceeding with purchase, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough mechanical inspection to address the known and potential issues. Focus on the suspension system: listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises, particularly when driving over bumps or at low speeds, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or loose components. Inspect the front and rear suspension arms for any signs of excessive play or damage, and verify that the coil springs are intact and not sagging. During the test drive, monitor the handling and steering for any signs of excessive body roll, uneven tire wear patterns, or a loss of stability, which could suggest suspension component failure. Additionally, check the brake system for signs of binding calipers, uneven brake disc wear, or a shuddering sensation when braking, which may indicate warped discs or soft brake pads. For the braking system, examine the front brake discs for signs of pitting, scoring, or excessive thickness reduction, as these were noted in previous MOTs. Pay particular attention to the near and offside discs, as they have been flagged as worn but not seriously weakened. Inspect the brake pads for adequate thickness and listen for any grinding noises, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact. The rear brakes should also be checked for proper operation, as the 2020 MOT highlighted potential issues that may have since progressed. Finally, verify that the vehicle’s fluids, including the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and differential fluid, are at the correct levels and show no signs of contamination or degradation, as prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to fluid breakdown. Given the vehicle’s age and usage, it is prudent to ensure that all service records are up to date, particularly for the suspension and braking components, and to consider a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to confirm the absence of hidden issues.