2011 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · N26 BHP

Rear‑suspension wear is the only recurring theme in the MOT record, with a 2019 advisory noting corrosion on the rear anti‑roll bar and a near‑side rear shock absorber dust cover that had become adrift; the 2021 advisory merely recorded items removed from the driver’s view. Apart from those two notes, the car has passed six consecutive annual tests without any recorded defects, most recently in March 2026, indicating that no major safety‑critical failures have been identified to date. At 213,486 mi the car averages roughly 14,200 mi per year, a mileage level that places considerable cumulative stress on wear items such as bushings, shock absorbers, brake components and the drivetrain. The MOT history shows no gaps in testing, so the high utilisation appears to have been continuous rather than the result of long periods of storage. Consequently, consumables are likely approaching the end of their design life and should be inspected for thinning, cracking or excessive play. When inspecting the rear suspension, feel for any looseness or clunking when the vehicle is driven over potholes or uneven road surfaces, and check the anti‑roll bar for excessive movement or rust‑induced weakness. Examine the rear shock absorber dust cover for gaps that could allow dirt ingress, and look for oil or fluid seepage around the shock and surrounding mounting points. Uneven rear tyre wear or a noticeable pull to one side while braking can also signal deteriorating rear suspension components. Although the MOT record shows no brake or steering faults, the high mileage warrants a thorough check of the braking system – inspect pad thickness, disc condition and any signs of uneven wear. Verify the condition of front and rear suspension bushes, coil springs and steering rack bearings, listening for any judder or binding under load. Given the mileage, a comprehensive service review, including oil change intervals and coolant condition, will help confirm that the power‑train remains within its operational tolerances before committing to purchase.