2014 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · YG14 VFT

The 2014 BMW 520d presents a mixed maintenance picture. The most recent MOT on 27 January 2026 at 115,439 miles passed, but the tester flagged an offside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit and edge wear, alongside corrosion on both the offside rear and offside front coil springs. This is not a new problem. The same offside coil spring corrosion appeared in the January 2025 test at 105,266 miles and again in January 2024 at 102,329 miles. The corrosion has persisted across three consecutive annual tests, indicating a worsening structural issue rather than a one-off advisory. The vehicle has not been failing MOTs, but the recurring nature of these faults suggests the underlying cause, likely long-term corrosion, has not been addressed. The mileage accumulation is consistent and unremarkable. From 92,952 miles in January 2022 to 115,439 miles in January 2026, the car has covered roughly 22,500 miles over four years, averaging around 5,600 miles annually in that window. Earlier years were slightly higher, with about 9,600 miles per year over the vehicle's full life. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps in the odometer record. The annual test intervals are regular, and the mileage progression supports a pattern of steady, moderate use rather than long periods of standing or very high-mileage fleet work. A buyer should pay close attention to the suspension and braking components. The repeated coil spring corrosion on the offside is a structural concern. Corroded springs can sag unpredictably or, in worst cases, fracture, which would cause sudden ride-height loss and potential handling instability. Have both front and rear coil springs inspected for pitting, section loss, and cracking, particularly around the lower mounting points where moisture collects. The January 2024 test also noted slight corrosion to the ferrules on both rear brake hose ends. While this was not a failure, corroded ferrules can compromise hose integrity under pressure and should be checked for swelling, cracking, or weeping. The offside rear tyre wear pattern flagged in the latest test suggests possible alignment or suspension geometry issues, so have the tracking and suspension bushes, including the track rod end flagged in 2022, assessed for play. The prop shaft flexible coupling deterioration noted in 2022 at 92,952 miles may have been replaced, but if not, inspect the coupling for splits and the centre bearing for wear. Finally, the engine covers and under trays noted as obscuring components in 2022 are likely still fitted, so request their removal for a proper underside inspection before purchase.