2016 BMW 420 2.0L Diesel · LS66 VTL

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 November 2025, was passed but recorded two advisories – a missing off‑side rear jacking block and a cut on the off‑side front tyre. Apart from these non‑fatal items, the vehicle has passed every test since September 2019 with no recorded defects, indicating a generally stable maintenance record. The absence of progressive failures suggests that the car has been looked after adequately, although the recurring advisory about the tyre cut signals a need for immediate tyre replacement and the missing jacking block points to a lapse in basic safety equipment that should be rectified before any further work is undertaken. At ten years old the odometer reads 58 690 miles, equating to roughly 5 800 miles per annum – well below the typical UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often reflects either light, occasional use or extended periods of storage. While reduced wear on the drivetrain, suspension and brakes is a benefit, the low mileage also raises the likelihood of age‑related degradation: rubber components can harden, metal parts may develop corrosion, and fluids can break down even when the car is not driven often. The mileage pattern therefore suggests that the next buyer should focus more on calendar‑based wear than on high‑mileage wear. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the tyre that was flagged. Verify the depth of the tread, check for any secondary cuts, sidewall cracking or dry‑rot, and confirm the tyre’s DOT code to establish its age – tyres older than six years should be replaced regardless of tread depth. The missing off‑side rear jacking block is a safety concern; ensure a suitable replacement is fitted and that the vehicle’s lifting points are free of corrosion. During a test drive listen for any clunking or excessive play in the front and rear suspension, which could indicate worn bushings or deteriorated coil springs, especially if the car has sat idle for long periods. Examine the brake discs for surface rust or glazing and test the pedal for any pulsation that might reveal warped discs or sticking calipers. Given the car’s age, also scrutinise the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and verify its cranking performance, as batteries left on the shelf for years often lose capacity. Inspect the engine bay for any signs of fluid leaks – oil, coolant, and brake fluid – and consider that these liquids may have become contaminated with time even if mileage is low; a full service with oil, filter, coolant flush and brake fluid replacement is advisable if the service history does not show recent calendar‑based maintenance. Finally, check the under‑carriage for rust, particularly around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and any required timing chain or valve‑train work that a 2016 BMW 420 may have required. Addressing these age‑related items will help ensure the vehicle remains mechanically sound and road‑worthy for the new owner.