2007 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · OV07 GVF

The most recent MOT test on 2025-11-22 resulted in a pass, though it revealed several persistent advisories that suggest a pattern of wear and minor neglect rather than outright failure. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT in the past three years, the recurring advisories—particularly around the near-side front tyre cuts, deteriorated suspension ball joint dust covers, and loose mirrors—indicate that maintenance has not been consistently rigorous. The 2025-10-26 failure highlighted critical issues with the front position lamps and further compromised ball joint dust covers, which were only partially addressed in subsequent tests. This suggests a trend where minor components are not being replaced promptly, allowing wear to progress incrementally. The advisories on brake hoses and registration plate deterioration also point to a lack of proactive servicing, especially in high-wear areas like the suspension and braking systems. The vehicle’s mileage of 134,098 miles over approximately 19 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,058 miles, which is typical for a car of this age and class. Such mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear if the vehicle has been used reasonably, but it does mean that consumables like tyres, brake pads, and fluids will have experienced more frequent exposure to stress. The lack of significant mileage gaps suggests the car has been in regular use, which could accelerate wear on suspension components, particularly the ball joints and anti-roll bar linkages, as seen in the MOT history. However, if the mileage accumulation was rapid in recent years—potentially due to higher usage—this could have contributed to the observed deterioration in the suspension and tyre wear patterns. For a prospective buyer, this BMW 520 requires a thorough inspection focused on the recurring MOT advisories and the signs of wear that have accumulated over its usage. Begin by examining the near-side front tyre for any signs of further cuts or uneven wear, as these could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. Listen for clunks or rattles in the suspension, especially when driving over bumps, which may suggest failing ball joints or damaged suspension bushes. Check the front anti-roll bar linkages for play or binding, and inspect the brake hoses for cracks or leaks, as these can lead to brake failure if neglected. The registration plate and mirrors should be replaced if they are significantly deteriorated, as these are not critical to roadworthiness but are mandatory for legal compliance. Additionally, assess the vehicle’s standing condition for signs of corrosion, particularly around the brake discs, calipers, and suspension mounts, as prolonged idling can accelerate rust formation. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as older vehicles like this one are prone to weak or failing batteries, especially if the alternator output has degraded over time. Check the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and differential fluid, noting that these fluids can degrade over time even without mileage accumulation. If the service history is sparse, consider scheduling a professional inspection to confirm the condition of the suspension components, exhaust system, and electrical lighting, as these areas have shown recurring issues. Finally, address the front position lamps as a priority, as their failure is a major MOT failure risk and could pose a safety hazard during nighttime or low-visibility driving.