2016 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · WD16 CPE

The most recent MOT, conducted on 7 May 2026 at 96,478 miles, passed cleanly with zero defects or advisories. That result is particularly significant because just two days prior, on 5 May 2026 at 96,447 miles, the same vehicle failed on both rear tyre tread depths and an incorrect nearside headlamp aim. The immediate retest outcome confirms those specific items were rectified rather than ignored, pointing to a reactive but ultimately effective maintenance approach. The overall trend is stable, with no recurring mechanical or structural faults appearing across consecutive annual tests. The mileage progression tells a consistent story of regular use. From 74,000 miles recorded on 2 May 2023 to 82,323 miles on 29 May 2024, the vehicle covered roughly 8,300 miles in thirteen months. The following year, between 30 April 2025 at 89,001 miles and 7 May 2026 at 96,478 miles, it added approximately 7,477 miles over twelve months. That steady accumulation of around 8,000 miles annually aligns with typical use for a 2016 example and suggests the car has been driven regularly rather than left standing for extended periods, which reduces the risk of deterioration from long-term inactivity such as flat-spotted tyres, seized brakes, or fuel system issues. The only recurring advisory pattern involves rear tyre wear. Both rear tyres were flagged as worn close to the legal limit on 2 May 2023 at 74,000 miles, and by 5 May 2026 at 96,447 miles both rear tyres had deteriorated to the point of complete tread failure. That repeat pattern across three years suggests either a persistent alignment or suspension geometry issue causing uneven rear tyre wear, or simply that previous owners deferred replacement until the tyres were legally non-compliant. A prospective buyer should inspect the rear suspension bushes, toe and camber settings, and shock absorbers for wear that could accelerate tyre degradation. The headlamp aim fault on the May 2026 failure was a one-off item with no prior or subsequent recurrence, likely corrected with a simple adjustment, and does not indicate an ongoing electrical or lighting concern. Beyond the documented defects, a buyer should examine the underside for corrosion on subframes, sills, and suspension mounting points, as a decade-old BMW at this mileage may have accumulated surface rust or structural corrosion depending on climate and road treatment history. Brake disc and pad condition, exhaust system integrity, and the operation of all electronic systems including parking sensors, infotainment, and climate control should also be verified during any in-person inspection. The MOT record itself is reassuringly clean outside of the tyre wear pattern, but it only captures a snapshot on test day and does not substitute for a thorough mechanical inspection by a qualified technician.