2012 BMW 5 Series 3.0L Diesel · MW61 VZC
2012 BMW 5 Series (3.0L, diesel). First registered 26 Jan 2012. Recorded mileage 197,060 miles. MOT expired on 06 Nov 2026. A manufacturer safety recall is currently outstanding.
- Make & Model
- BMW 5 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Manchester & Merseyside
- Safety Recall
- Recall Notice
- MOT Status
- Expired on 06 Nov 2026
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 197,060 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 3.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Outstanding Safety Recall Notice
Action RequiredOfficial DVSA telemetry indicates this vehicle has an unaddressed manufacturer safety recall. Remedial repairs are legally required to be carried out 100% free of charge by an authorised main dealer.
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
MW61 VZC Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Outstanding manufacturer safety recall notice
- Latest MOT passed on 07/11/2025
- 197,060 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MW61 VZC MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 BMW 5 Series (MW61 VZC) between September 2022 and November 2025.
The record contains 4 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 7 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (2 issues), Brakes (2 issues), Suspension (1 issue), Bodywork (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 7 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
MW61 VZC Mileage History
- 20/09/2022159,158 mi
- 21/08/2023176,552 mi+17,394 mi
- 19/08/2024186,856 mi+10,304 mi
- 07/11/2025197,060 mi+10,204 mi
Average of roughly 12,099 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for BMW 5 Series (F10)
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
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Digital Service History
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Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2012 model year cars.
- N47/N57 Timing Chain StretchSerious
The 520d N47 is the major offender, but neglected N57 six-cylinder diesels can also stretch chains. Repair costs climb fast because access is poor.
- EGR Cooler LeakSerious
Many F10 diesels sit squarely in the UK EGR recall years. Leaking coolant mixed with soot can create a fire risk and should never be waved away as a minor seep.
- Air Suspension Failure (Touring)Serious
Rear air bags crack with age, then the compressor overworks and burns out. It is common enough to be a routine Touring inspection item.
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