1998 BMW 728 2.8L Petrol · R644 BKE

The most recent MOT test conducted in February 2026 resulted in a pass, but the advisory notes indicate a shift towards immediate maintenance requirements regarding braking components and tyre integrity. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent passing record since 2019, the maintenance trend appears to be moving from long-term structural and fluid-related advisories toward more urgent consumable wear. The presence of thinning rear brake pads and perishing tyres suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase where routine wear-and-tear items require replacement to maintain safety standards. With 175,391 miles recorded over approximately 28 years, this BMW has averaged roughly 6,264 miles per year. This represents a relatively low annual mileage, which is typical for a premium executive saloon of this vintage. While lower mileage generally implies less mechanical fatigue on the engine and drivetrain, it often correlates with longer periods of inactivity. For a vehicle of this age, such usage patterns can lead to secondary issues such as rubber component degradation, seal drying, and fluid contamination, which are reflected in the historical advisory records. A significant concern for a prospective buyer is the persistent history of corrosion on fuel and brake pipes, which has appeared in almost every annual test since 2019. Although these have not yet resulted in an MOT failure, the recurring nature of these advisories suggests a systemic issue with the integrity of the hydraulic and fuel delivery lines. During a test drive, you should pay close attention to the brake pedal feel; any sponginess or a soft pedal could indicate that the reported corrosion is affecting hydraulic pressure. Furthermore, you must inspect the underbody for any signs of active fuel leaks or weeping from the brake lines, as the historical tendency for these pipes to be covered in grease may have been an attempt to mask progressive corrosion. The recent advisories regarding the nearside rear and offside rear tyres indicate sidewall cracking or perishing, a common symptom of age-related rubber degradation often seen in low-mileage vehicles. You should check the manufacture date codes on all four tyres to ensure they are not older than five to six years, regardless of tread depth. Additionally, the history of oil leaks and misting shock absorbers suggests that engine seals and suspension damping components are aging. Listen for any rhythmic clunking or knocking from the suspension over uneven surfaces and check the engine bay for fresh oil seepage. Given the age and the reported thinning brake pads, you should budget for a comprehensive service of the braking system and a replacement of all ageing rubber components to ensure long-term reliability.