2016 BMW 116 1.5L Diesel · SA66 PPX

The most recent MOT on 22 November 2025 was passed, although it recorded a cut on the nearside front outer tyre and a minor oil leak from the central rear differential. Over the last six years the vehicle has moved from a failure in October 2022 – caused by a non‑functioning nearside headlamp, an unsafe rear tyre tread depth and a dangerous rear tyre condition – to a series of passes with only advisory items. The pattern shows a clear improvement after the 2022 failure, with no further dangerous defects, though several wear‑related advisories persist, indicating that maintenance has been generally adequate but that some components are approaching the end of their service life. At ten years old the car has logged 66,976 miles, giving an average annual usage of roughly 6,700 miles. This is within the normal range for a BMW 1‑Series of this age and suggests no periods of extreme high mileage that would accelerate wear on major drivetrain components. However, the relatively modest yearly distance also implies that the vehicle may have spent extended periods stationary, which can promote corrosion of suspension bushes, brake caliper pistons and electrical connections, as well as the gradual perishing of tyre rubber. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the braking system. The MOT advisories in 2021 and 2024 flag thin front inner pads on both sides and thin rear pads, so a visual inspection of all pads and the condition of the discs is essential; look for scoring, glazing or excessive rust, and listen for any shudder or vibration under braking. Because the front shocks have shown light oil misting on two occasions, inspect the shock bodies for any seepage, check for a soft or uneven ride, and be alert to clunking noises when traversing bumps, which would indicate worn seals or bushings. The rear differential oil leak noted in 2025, together with the earlier rear fluid leak advisory, warrants a thorough check for oil stains beneath the rear axle, and a test of the differential for abnormal noises or whining, as unchecked leaks can lead to bearing wear and eventual failure. In addition to the specific items above, verify that the nearside front tyre cut has not progressed and that the tread depth on all tyres meets the legal minimum, using a tread depth gauge. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking or dry‑rot, a common issue on cars with long periods of storage. Check the battery’s state of charge and cranking performance, as a ten‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life, especially if the vehicle has been idle for extended periods. Inspect the under‑body for corrosion, particularly around the suspension mounting points and exhaust hangers, and confirm that the headlamp now operates correctly on both mains and dip. Finally, request a full service history to ensure that time‑based fluid changes—engine oil, gearbox oil, brake fluid and coolant—have been carried out at the recommended intervals, as these are critical to the long‑term reliability of a BMW of this vintage.