2015 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · L11 XAH

The defining mechanical theme across this Audi A4's MOT history is a chronic front suspension issue, specifically affecting the lower suspension arm pins or bushes. This component was first flagged as an advisory in January 2023 on both the nearside and offside, reappeared as an advisory in January 2025 on the same components, and by January 2026 had deteriorated to a Major failure category on the nearside front, meaning the wear was now excessive enough to be classed as a defect. This pattern represents a progressive mechanical decline over a three-year period rather than an isolated event, indicating that the bushes are wearing steadily and replacement is now overdue. The vehicle did pass its most recent MOT on 15 January 2026, the day after the failure was recorded, suggesting remedial work was carried out to address the dangerous brake pad issues and the suspension defect, but a buyer should treat the front lower arm inner bushes as a known ongoing maintenance item for this chassis. With 105,690 recorded miles over approximately eleven years, the vehicle is averaging just over 9,600 miles per year, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a car of this age. The annual MOT cadence shows tests in 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026, with the gap between 2020 and 2022 being the only notable interval, though this is consistent with the COVID-era testing extension rather than a long period off the road. The mileage accumulation therefore appears steady and continuous, which means wear-related components such as suspension linkages, brake discs, and tyres have been subjected to consistent use rather than the dry-rotting and seized-caliper risks associated with low-mileage or laid-up vehicles. From a buyer inspection standpoint, the front lower suspension arm inner bushes warrant particular attention on a test drive. Listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces, and pay attention to any vagueness or delay in steering response, particularly during initial turn-in. A bouncy or unsettled ride quality over minor undulations can also indicate worn bushes that have lost their damping effect. Because the issue has been recorded on both sides repeatedly, it is worth inspecting the full set of front lower arms, as replacing one side often leads to the other side requiring attention shortly afterwards. Ask for documentary evidence of what was replaced to secure the January 2026 pass, and consider budgeting for further suspension refurbishment if receipts are not available. The braking system also demands careful scrutiny following the dangerous failure on both front and rear pads in January 2026. While the vehicle subsequently passed, this dual-axle pad failure at 1.1 mm and 1.5 mm respectively suggests the pads were allowed to wear to a hazardous level, and the advisories on both front brake discs from the same test indicate that the discs themselves were nearing the end of their service life as well. On a test drive, check for any pulling to one side under braking, vibration or judder through the steering wheel or brake pedal, and grinding or squealing noises that could confirm warped discs or worn pad material. The rear tyres, which have appeared as advisories in 2023 and 2024 for inner-edge wear and feathering, may point to a tracking or geometry issue stemming from the worn suspension components, so a four-wheel alignment check should be considered as part of any post-purchase commissioning.