2018 BMW 5 Series 2.0L Petrol · RE18 WCL

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of the May 2026 test at 92,685 miles, having passed the MOT despite a light mist of oil on the off‑side front shock absorber and a minor chip to the near‑side windscreen that does not impair the driver’s view. The pattern of recurring shock‑absorber oil misting, first noted on the rear units in May 2024 and now on the front in May 2026, suggests a stable but persistent wear issue rather than a worsening failure, while no new safety‑critical defects have emerged. Mileage averages roughly 11,600 miles per year, consistent with typical usage for an eight‑year‑old 5 Series. The odometer rose from 42,010 miles in May 2021 to 50,256 miles a year later, then progressed in similar increments each May, with a larger 15,200‑mile increase between May 2024 and May 2025. No significant gaps appear in the record, indicating regular annual testing and continuous operation. The mileage growth aligns with the recorded wear on tyres and shocks, reflecting normal wear rather than abrupt spikes. A prospective buyer should examine the front shock absorber for oil leakage and verify the condition of the rear units, as repeated misting may herald seal deterioration. Inspect the near‑side windscreen for any propagation of the chip and confirm that the visual field remains unobstructed. Check tyre tread depth on all four tyres, especially given the close‑to‑legal‑limit wear noted in 2022 and 2025, and assess the overall suspension bushings and coil springs for signs of fatigue. A visual inspection for corrosion on the chassis and a functional brake test are advisable to ensure no hidden deterioration has developed beyond the MOT‑recorded items.