2020 Audi E-Tron Technik 50 Quattro Electric · KY70 AYA

The 2020 Audi e-tron Technik 50 Quattro’s latest MOT test on 2025-10-31 resulted in a pass, though it included two advisories regarding tyre wear—one on the near-side rear tyre and one on the offside front inner tyre—both showing excessive edge wear close to the legal limit. This follows a pattern of recurring tyre-related advisories from previous MOTs, particularly in 2023, where the vehicle failed due to multiple deep tread cuts exposing inner cords on both front and rear tyres, indicating severe underinflation, improper alignment, or aggressive driving habits that accelerate tread degradation. The fact that the latest test still flags edge wear suggests the issue persists or has only recently reached the threshold for advisories, rather than a sudden deterioration. While the 2024 test passed without defects, the consistent tyre advisories and the presence of dangerous conditions in 2023 imply a maintenance history where tyre management has been either neglected or insufficiently addressed. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 55,686 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,281 miles per year, which is typical for a six-year-old electric vehicle under normal conditions. This rate does not suggest excessive wear beyond what would be expected from the vehicle’s age and the cumulative effects of electric driving, which tends to be smoother than conventional internal combustion engines but still subject to mechanical stress. However, the absence of a service history or mileage-based maintenance records means there is no direct evidence of routine servicing, such as brake pad replacements, suspension inspections, or fluid top-ups, which could have been deferred due to lower mileage. The potential for prolonged periods of inactivity—common in used electric vehicles—could also contribute to issues like battery degradation, brake corrosion from standing, or fluid degradation in systems not used regularly. Given the recurring tyre advisories and the presence of dangerous conditions from the 2023 MOT, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyres, focusing on their alignment, inflation pressure, and overall tread depth. On a test drive, listen for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment, camber issues, or suspension damage. Check for signs of excessive vibration or pulling to one side, as these could point to alignment or steering system problems contributing to the edge wear. Additionally, verify that the tyres are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, as underinflation is a primary cause of tread failure and the exposure of inner cords. If the tyres have been recently replaced or are nearing the legal limit, consider a full tyre service or alignment to address the underlying causes of the wear. Beyond tyres, the buyer should also inspect the vehicle’s suspension and steering components for signs of wear or damage. Look for excessive play in the steering wheel, clunks or rattles during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes, broken coil springs, or damaged control arms. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could suggest binding calipers, warped brake discs, or poor brake system function. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs or pads, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing brake systems can corrode the discs and cause binding. For the electrical system, given the electric powertrain, ensure the 12V battery is in good condition, as older electric vehicles may experience reduced capacity or failure if not maintained. Finally, since the vehicle’s age and mileage suggest it may not have undergone routine service intervals, check the fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—for signs of degradation or contamination, as these fluids can deteriorate over time regardless of mileage. If possible, obtain a copy of the service book or ask the seller for records of any recent maintenance to confirm the vehicle’s maintenance history.