2009 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · WD05 JAM

The most recent MOT test for this 2009 BMW 520 occurred on 2025-11-15 and resulted in a clean pass, indicating that the vehicle has met all current roadworthiness standards at that time. While the overall maintenance trend over the past six years is relatively stable, with no major failures beyond the obligatory mirror issue in 2022, there is a pattern of recurring advisories related to brake disc wear and tyre condition. The advisories on worn, pitted, or scored brake discs—particularly front and rear—suggest that the braking system has experienced prolonged use without full servicing, which could lead to further deterioration if not addressed. The consistent presence of near-legal tyre wear advisories, especially on the rear tyres, indicates that the vehicle has been driven at a pace that has accelerated tyre consumption, warranting closer attention to tread depth and overall tyre condition. The recorded mileage of 184,994 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 10,882 miles per annum, which is typical for a car of this age and class. This level of mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear if the vehicle has been maintained appropriately, but it does imply that consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and suspension components have been subjected to consistent use. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the car has been in regular service, which could contribute to wear patterns such as uneven tyre wear, particularly evident in the advisories from previous MOTs. However, the presence of an oil leak advisory in 2021 highlights a potential mechanical issue that should be investigated further, as oil leaks can accelerate engine and transmission wear if not rectified promptly. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a test drive and physical examination include the braking system, tyres, and suspension. The recurring advisories on brake discs indicate that the pads may be nearing exhaustion, and symptoms to watch for include reduced braking efficiency, a grinding or squeaking noise when braking, or a pulsating sensation in the pedal. A thorough inspection should confirm whether the discs are uniformly worn or if there is evidence of warping or scoring, which could compromise braking performance. Additionally, the tyres show significant wear, particularly on the edges and near the legal limit, so checking for uneven wear patterns, cracks in the sidewall, or signs of dry rot is essential. The obligatory mirror failure from 2022 should be repaired immediately, as a broken or non-functional rear-view mirror poses a safety risk and is a mandatory repair for roadworthiness. Beyond the immediate concerns, this vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a comprehensive check on fluid condition and service history. Given the 17-year age, fluids such as the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant should be replaced or refreshed according to BMW’s recommended intervals, as standing fluids can degrade over time, leading to corrosion, seal failure, or reduced performance. The battery, which may have been exposed to prolonged periods of disuse or standing, should be tested for charge capacity and corrosion on terminals, as corrosion can impede electrical connections and lead to starting issues. Finally, a visual inspection of the suspension for signs of bush wear, coil spring failure, or excessive play in the steering should be conducted, as the advisories from previous MOTs suggest potential long-term wear in these components. If the oil leak remains unresolved, a professional inspection of the engine bay for leaks from seals, gaskets, or the oil filter housing is strongly advised to prevent further damage.