2016 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · RJ66 LRZ

The most recent MOT test conducted in October 2025 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle is currently meeting all essential safety and environmental standards. Looking at the broader history, the maintenance trend is remarkably stable and consistent. The few advisories noted in previous years were non-mechanical in nature, specifically relating to access obstructions such as child seats and underbody covers, rather than any underlying structural or mechanical failings. This suggests a vehicle that has been kept in a good state of repair without the accumulation of significant component wear or recurring failures. With a recorded mileage of 49,287 over approximately ten years, this BMW has averaged roughly 4,929 miles per annum. This is considered very low usage for a premium executive saloon of this age. While lower mileage typically implies less stress on the engine, turbocharger, and transmission, it also suggests the vehicle may have been subject to long periods of inactivity. From a mechanical perspective, low-mileage vehicles can occasionally present issues related to stagnation, such as dried-out rubber components or fluid degradation, which are distinct from the wear patterns seen on high-mileage vehicles. Given the clean MOT record and the low annual mileage, your inspection should prioritise age-related degradation over wear-based failure. Closely examine the tyres for signs of perishing or sidewall cracking, as tyres can lose their structural integrity due to age even if the tread depth remains high. Inspect the brake discs for excessive surface corrosion or pitting, and during your test drive, listen for any binding or squealing that might indicate calipers that have become seized from infrequent use. It is also vital to check the condition of the 12V battery, as vehicles that sit idle for long periods are prone to battery sulphation and reduced cranking reliability. Finally, ensure that the vehicle has adhered to a time-based servicing schedule rather than solely a mileage-based one. Even with low usage, essential fluids such as engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant should be replaced at regular intervals to prevent chemical breakdown and internal corrosion. Check the service book for evidence of these calendar-based changes. During the test drive, pay particular attention to the suspension; listen for any knocks or clunks over uneven surfaces, as suspension bushes and coil springs can perish or lose their effectiveness due to age and environmental exposure regardless of the distance travelled.