2016 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · X44 MAF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 3 November 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, and the preceding three annual tests (2024‑10‑31, 2023‑10‑31 and 2022‑11‑02) were also passes. The only anomaly is a recorded failure on 31 October 2023 that, unusually, lists no defects; this suggests the failure may have been administrative or related to a minor, rectified issue that did not require a formal advisory. Overall the MOT trend is stable, with the vehicle consistently meeting the statutory safety and emissions criteria over the past five years. At ten years old the car has logged 97,343 miles, which works out to just under 10,000 miles per annum – a usage pattern that sits squarely within the normal range for a midsize executive saloon. There are no evident gaps in the mileage record that would indicate prolonged periods of storage, nor any spikes that would point to unusually high annual running. Consequently the wear on primary consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is likely to be in line with what would be expected for a vehicle of this age and mileage, rather than being accelerated by excessive use. For a buyer, the primary inspection points should focus on age‑related degradation rather than mileage‑driven failure. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or any signs of perishing, and verify that the tread depth is at least 1.6 mm across the width; tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement even if the tread appears adequate. Check the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and ensure it holds a healthy charge – a load test or a voltage reading above 12.6 V at rest is advisable. Inspect the brake discs and pads for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear, and listen for any shudder or pulsation when applying the brakes on a short drive; binding calipers can develop when a car sits for long periods. Look over the suspension bushes, ball joints and coil springs for any play, creaking or clunking, especially when negotiating bumps, as rubber components tend to harden and lose compliance after a decade. Finally, verify that time‑based fluid services have been observed: the engine oil and filter should have been changed roughly every 10‑12 000 miles or annually, the coolant replaced every four years, and the brake fluid flushed at least every two years to prevent moisture uptake. Look for any signs of leaks around the oil sump, coolant hoses, and the rear sub‑frame, and confirm that the service book contains stamps or receipts that correspond with the mileage intervals. A thorough visual inspection combined with a careful test drive will reveal whether the vehicle’s mechanical condition aligns with its clean MOT history and typical usage pattern.