2007 Audi A4 4.2L Petrol · 1000 C

The most recent MOT test on 3 April 2024 resulted in a Pass, although three minor defects and two advisories were recorded. The overall maintenance trend over the past five MOT cycles appears stable rather than deteriorating, with no Dangerous or Major failures since April 2022 and clean Passes recorded in 2021 and 2019. However, the recurring nature of certain advisories, particularly the front tyre wear issue noted across multiple tests, suggests an underlying alignment or suspension geometry concern that has not yet been fully rectified. The fact that each annual test continues to flag worn-on-edge front tyres is a clear indicator that something is causing uneven or accelerated wear, which warrants further investigation before purchase. At 70,378 recorded miles over approximately 19 years, this Audi A4 has averaged only around 3,700 miles per year, which is exceptionally low for the vehicle's age. While low mileage often correlates with reduced wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and gearbox, it also presents its own set of risks associated with prolonged periods of standing or infrequent use. Components that suffer from lack of regular exercise include brake calipers, which can seize due to corrosion on the sliding pins and pistons, brake discs that may develop severe surface corrosion from moisture exposure, and rubber seals throughout the drivetrain that may perish without the lubricating benefit of regular operation. The recorded mileage gap should also be verified against service book stamps and any available history documentation to confirm the vehicle has been genuinely used as recorded rather than simply stored. The recurring advisories relating to front tyres being worn close to the legal limit and on the edges warrant particular attention. Uneven or edge wear on both front tyres simultaneously is classically symptomatic of incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension bushes, or failing ball joints, the latter of which has already been flagged as a Minor issue at the last MOT with deteriorated dust covers on both lower suspension arms. A prospective buyer should listen for clonking noises from the front suspension over speed bumps or rough roads, and visually inspect the inner and outer edges of the front tyres for feathering or chamfering. The deteriorated constant velocity boot on the nearside front driveshaft, also recorded at the last two tests, is a known precursor to joint failure once grease escapes and contamination occurs; any signs of fresh grease around the boot or a clicking noise when turning at full lock would indicate imminent driveshaft replacement. The earlier 2022 failure relating to an exhaust Lambda sensor reading suggests an emissions or catalytic efficiency concern that may still be latent, and a thorough road test should include checking for any illumination of the engine management light, rough idle, or hesitation under acceleration. Beyond the recorded defects, the age and low usage profile of this vehicle demand careful physical inspection of several time-sensitive items. Tyres fitted to a 2007 vehicle should be checked for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of tread depth, and any tyres older than five years from their DOT date stamp should be replaced regardless of remaining tread. The 12-volt battery is likely due for replacement given the vehicle's age, and its health should be load-tested rather than assumed serviceable. All under-bonnet fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, should be checked for age and condition, with brake fluid particularly susceptible to moisture absorption over long service intervals and ideally replaced every two years. Underneath the vehicle, inspect for corrosion on subframes, brake lines, and suspension components, as standing vehicles in damp conditions often show advanced surface rust. Finally, the 2022 advisory regarding a poor condition front exhaust flexi section should be revisited, as flexi sections typically deteriorate progressively and replacement is advisable before any MOT test centre flags it as a failure.