2016 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · YE16 EXW

The vehicle holds a valid MOT certificate following a pass on 5 December 2025. However, the testing history reveals a reactive approach to maintenance rather than proactive upkeep. On the same day as its latest pass, the vehicle initially failed due to a dangerous defect regarding front brake pads worn below the 1.5 mm limit, alongside a major defect for significantly worn front brake discs. While the immediate replacement of these components secured the pass, the record indicates that wear-and-tear items are sometimes left to degrade to critical levels before receiving attention. With 94,373 miles recorded at the December 2025 test, the vehicle averages approximately 9,437 miles per year. This annual accumulation is typical for a diesel executive saloon of this age. The testing intervals remain consistent, showing regular annual presentations between September 2022 and December 2025, with no untoward gaps in the record. This steady mileage suggests regular road use rather than extended periods of standing, though it has been eight months since the last official inspection. A prospective buyer must conduct targeted physical checks on several mechanical assemblies. The front brake discs and pads were replaced to pass the December 2025 test, but the rear brake pads were flagged as wearing thin in December 2024. Because the 2025 test did not list rear brake advisories, an inspector should verify whether the rear pads and discs were actually replaced or simply escaped tester notation. The steering and suspension systems require close scrutiny. The December 2024 test recorded play in the offside front track rod end ball joint. Although this advisory did not reappear in the December 2025 record, steering play can deteriorate rapidly on heavier vehicles, leading to uneven tyre wear and compromised handling. Inspecting the front suspension bushes, track rod ends, and the inner edges of the front tyres—recalling the worn and cracked offside front tyre advisory from September 2022—will confirm if the steering geometry is currently correct and if previous wear issues have been fully resolved.