2004 BMW 645 4.4L Petrol · YC04 TOK

Structural fatigue and recurring mechanical interventions define the inspection profile of this 2004 BMW 645, which most recently secured a pass on the twenty-eighth of March 2023 after overcoming a dangerous tyre defect. The trajectory of recent tests reveals a heavy concentration of structural and suspension failures, transitioning from electronic power steering and broken coil springs in early 2022 to dual lower suspension arm ball joint wear and dual rear coil spring fractures in early 2023. While the car cleared its final retest in March 2023, the underlying record is punctuated by multiple failures and persistent advisories for fluid leaks and corrosion, indicating that this grand tourer requires rigorous, ongoing mechanical management rather than pointing to a stable or untroubled structural condition. Accumulating 126,489 miles over approximately twenty-two years translates to an average annual mileage of roughly 5,750 miles, placing this BMW in a low-usage bracket for its age. While lower mileage sometimes reflects lighter duty, the clustering of significant suspension collapses and tyre degradation within a compressed twelve-month testing window demonstrates that reduced annual distance has not shielded the vehicle from heavy component degradation. Prospective buyers should note that cars with lighter usage profiles can still experience rapid aging of rubber bushings, seals, and suspension mountings, especially when combined with the high torque and heavy front-end loads characteristic of a V8-powered luxury coupé. A thorough physical inspection during the test drive must focus squarely on the areas highlighted in the MOT test history, starting with a close check for the central front oil leak noted across the 2023 tests. Listen carefully for any knocking, clunking, or vague steering responses over rough road surfaces, which would indicate lingering wear in the front lower suspension arm ball joints or surrounding linkages that were previously replaced or flagged. Inspect the rear anti-roll bar for the structural corrosion previously recorded, and check that the rear coil springs ride evenly without excessive sagging or harsh impacts over speed humps. Pay close attention to the braking system by testing the pedal feel for any judder or excessive travel, verifying that the front brake pads, which were noted as wearing thin during the last pass, have adequate friction material remaining. Check all wheels for even tyre wear and ensure the electronic power steering system operates smoothly without warning lights, remembering that a previous system malfunction was recorded. Given the complex electronics and high-performance engine bay heat cycles inherent to this model, a comprehensive ramp inspection to examine the underside for fresh fluid seepage and subframe corrosion is strongly advised before purchase.