2019 Audi A7 2.0L Petrol · VK69 VYV

The most recent DVSA examination on 15 May 2026 resulted in a Pass, although it was achieved only nine days after a previous failure on 6 May 2026, which warrants careful attention. The earlier test recorded a Major defect concerning the central rear seat belt webbing, classified as significantly weakened with a cut greater than 4mm, which would have necessitated replacement before a pass certificate could be issued. Both tests in May 2026 carried a consistent set of advisories relating to the nearside and offside front inner tyres being worn close to the legal limit and scrubbing on the edge, alongside sidewall damage to the nearside and offside front outer tyres and the nearside rear outer tyre. While the 2025, 2024, 2023, and 2022 tests were clean passes with only minor advisory notes regarding a child seat preventing belt inspection, the sudden emergence of multiple tyre-related advisories in 2026 suggests a localised wear pattern or steering geometry concern that has developed more recently. The maintenance trend is therefore showing a slight deterioration, with a notable cluster of advisories concentrated on the front axle tyres that should not be overlooked. With 43,055 miles recorded over approximately seven years, the vehicle has been driven at an average of around 6,150 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a premium executive car of this age. There are no significant gaps or unusually rapid accumulation periods evident from the MOT history, indicating reasonably consistent usage rather than long periods of standing or conversely heavy motorway commuting. This usage pattern is favourable in many respects, as it suggests the drivetrain, suspension, and braking components have experienced normal working temperatures and have not been subjected to excessive wear. However, the modest annual mileage does mean the vehicle may have spent considerable time on short journeys or standing between uses, which can accelerate certain forms of degradation such as brake disc corrosion from infrequent operation or 12V battery deterioration from limited charging cycles. It is also worth noting that timing belt and fluid service intervals are governed by time as well as mileage, so calendar-based maintenance will be highly relevant. Given the recurring front tyre edge wear advisories recorded at both 2026 tests, a prospective buyer should carefully inspect all four tyres for uneven shoulder wear patterns and verify wheel alignment settings, particularly the front toe and camber angles, as edge scrubbing on both sides typically indicates a tracking issue or worn suspension components such as track rod ends, wishbone bushes, or top mounts. During a test drive, listen for any clonks or knocking from the front suspension over speed bumps or uneven surfaces, and pay attention to steering wander, vibration through the wheel, or any pulling to one side under braking. The sidewall damage advisories on three tyres should be visually examined to ensure no bulges, cracks, or exposed cord are present, as sidewall integrity is critical for safe high-speed operation. Budget for a full set of replacement tyres and a four-wheel alignment check, which is a sensible precaution on a vehicle displaying this wear pattern. Beyond the recorded tyre concerns, a seven-year-old Audi A7 with this mileage profile warrants several age-related inspections that may not be visible on the MOT record. The 12V battery should be tested for state of health, as stop-start systems and complex electronics place significant demand on it, and premature failure is common on vehicles of this age regardless of mileage. Brake discs and pads should be examined for corrosion or seizing calipers, particularly as the relatively low annual mileage increases the likelihood of surface rust on discs and potentially binding mechanisms. Fluid services including brake fluid, coolant, and the automatic gearbox oil should be verified as recently renewed in accordance with manufacturer schedules, as these degrade over time irrespective of mileage. Finally, request full service history documentation, confirm the timing chain or belt replacement status according to Audi's prescribed intervals, and inspect the underside for any signs of fluid leaks from the engine, transmission, or differential seals before committing to purchase.