1996 Audi A4 2.6L Petrol · N866 AJM

The vehicle is recorded as roadworthy in the latest MOT on 13 February 2023 at 174,068 miles, where it passed with only minor advisories – slight play in the nearside rear anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joint and a slightly deteriorated brake hose. Compared with the preceding failure on 8 February 2023, the defect list has narrowed considerably, indicating a short‑term improvement; however, recurring items such as anti‑roll‑bar play and brake‑hose wear have persisted over several years, suggesting a stable but not fully resolved maintenance pattern. Mileage has risen from 140,025 miles on 23 October 2012 to 174,068 miles on 13 February 2023, an average of roughly 3,300 miles per year. This low annual accumulation for a 30‑year‑old Audi A4 points to light usage rather than periods of intensive driving. No abrupt mileage spikes appear between recorded tests, although the interval between the 7 November 2018 and 9 February 2021 tests spans over two years, hinting at a possible dormant period. Overall the mileage record is consistent and modest for the vehicle’s age. A prospective buyer should focus on the suspension and braking systems that have shown repeated wear. Inspect the nearside rear anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joint for excessive movement and verify the condition of all front upper and lower suspension ball joints, which have been flagged for slight to excessive play in multiple tests. Examine brake hoses for deterioration and assess brake pads and discs, noting that front and rear discs were previously reported as worn but not critically weakened. Check the constant‑velocity joint boot on the front drive‑shaft for integrity, as a split boot was recorded in the 2023 failure. Confirm the source of any oil leakage, especially given the transition from non‑excessive to excessive leaks in early 2023, and evaluate the emissions system for possible catalytic or lambda‑sensor issues, given repeated carbon‑monoxide failures. Finally, verify tyre tread depth and wheel‑bearing play, as tyre edges were near legal limits in 2018 and rear bearing play was noted at that time. Addressing these areas will clarify whether the vehicle’s underlying condition aligns with the modest mileage and recent pass.