2006 BMW 535d: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the BMW 535d first registered in 2006: we looked at the 1,972 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Common 2006 BMW 535d MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2006 BMW 535d MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Suspension36% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Brakes30% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Tyres29% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Lights and electrics21% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Oil and fluid leaks18% of testsRough price £80–£600
At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors10% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2006 BMW 535d
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
Looking at a BMW 535d?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the BMW 535d compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 205 | Tyres 25% |
| 2016 | 3,138 | Tyres 24% |
| 2015 | 3,377 | Tyres 25% |
| 2014 | 2,347 | Tyres 25% |
| 2013 | 878 | Tyres 26% |
| 2012 | 648 | Tyres 24% |
| 2011 | 1,272 | Tyres 24% |
| 2010 | 613 | Tyres 26% |
| 2009 | 772 | Suspension 34% |
| 2008 | 1,428 | Suspension 34% |
| 2007 | 2,073 | Suspension 34% |
| 2005 | 2,018 | Suspension 37% |
| 2004 | 390 | Suspension 32% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test done in Great Britain during 2023–2025, counting the MOTs of BMW 535d cars first registered in 2006. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score