2009 BMW 520 2.0L Diesel · YH59 FPN

The vehicle most recently presented for DVSA roadworthiness testing on 27 February 2026 and achieved a PASS outcome with no defects or advisories recorded, which is the strongest possible current position. However, the test one day prior, on 26 February 2026, resulted in a FAIL with two dangerous and major defects attributed to the offside rear tyre, specifically a cut exposing the ply or cords and a structural tear consistent with separation or partial failure of the tyre casing. The fact that the vehicle passed the following day suggests the offending tyre was replaced prior to re-presentation, which is a positive sign that the keeper addressed the issue promptly. Looking at the broader trend, the previous three tests from 2023 to 2025 were all passes but carried a recurring advisory concerning the offside front tyre, noted as worn close to the legal limit and on the inner edge in 2023, then simply on edge in 2024 and 2025. While the advisory did not persist into 2026, this repeated wear pattern is a mechanical indicator that warrants investigation rather than dismissal. The recorded mileage of 70,248 miles against a 2009 registration equates to an annualised usage of roughly 4,132 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age and well below the average for a car that has spent its life in regular service. Such low annual mileage can reflect occasional use, a second-car role, or extended periods of standing between journeys. Mechanically, this usage profile presents a different risk profile to high-mileage examples; components that suffer from inactivity rather than wear are often the primary concern. Long periods of standing can lead to brake disc corrosion, binding brake calipers due to seized pistons or slides, deterioration of suspension bushes through dry rot rather than mechanical wear, and degradation of rubber components such as drive belts, hoses, and suspension gaiters. Given the low-mileage, older-vehicle profile, a prospective buyer should carry out specific physical checks beyond the MOT record. Inspect all four tyres, including the spare, for sidewall cracking, perishing, or crazing caused by age rather than tread wear, as tyres older than around six years begin to harden and lose grip even with adequate tread depth. Verify the production date stamp on each tyre sidewall. Examine the brake discs for any significant surface corrosion, particularly rust build-up around the disc edges and hub mating surfaces, and confirm the calipers release fully by checking for uneven pad wear or a dragging sensation when the vehicle is driven. Listen for any suspension clunks or knocks over speed bumps and uneven surfaces, paying particular attention to the front subframe, anti-roll bar bushes, and control arm bushes, which are known wear items on the E60 5 Series and can deteriorate through age as much as mileage. The fluid and electrical servicing schedule should also be verified independently of the MOT history. Check the service book for evidence of recent replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid if applicable, as these degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage; brake fluid in particular should be renewed every two years due to its hygroscopic nature, and coolant should be replaced at the manufacturer-recommended intervals to prevent corrosion within the cooling system. Test the 12V battery under load, as a battery that has sat partially discharged for extended periods will have reduced capacity and may fail without warning, especially in colder months. Finally, given the recurring offside front tyre edge wear advisory across three consecutive tests, inspect the front suspension geometry and check for any play in the wheel bearing or top mount, as persistent inner or outer edge wear typically points to an underlying alignment, camber, or suspension issue that the advisory alone does not fully diagnose.