2013 Audi A6 2.0L Diesel · 100 BKD

Chronic suspension wear and recurring tyre-related issues define the mechanical history of this 2013 Audi A6, with the DVSA record showing a clear pattern of front lower arm bush deterioration that has persisted across the majority of tests. The most recent assessment on 9 March 2026 recorded a pass alongside advisories for front lower suspension arm pin or bush wear on the rear lower arms on both sides, offside front tyre damage, and an offside rear inner tyre noted as becoming out of shape. A fail was logged on the same date for a nearside front tyre with ply or cords exposed, which is classified as dangerous, together with advisories for an offside front tyre worn close to the legal limit at 2.1mm and front brake pads wearing thin. The earliest recorded test in this window, August 2021, already flagged suspension bushes and tyre wear, suggesting the lower arm components have been deteriorating over a sustained period rather than appearing as a one-off observation. The front suspension bush wear has been recorded at multiple tests between 2022 and 2026, which points to an ongoing mechanical concern that warrants close attention rather than dismissal. Mileage accumulation across the recorded tests appears broadly consistent with the vehicle's age, sitting at 109,229 miles over approximately 13 years, which equates to roughly 8,400 miles annually. This is a typical accumulation rate for a car of this vintage and usage profile, neither suggesting long periods of standing off-road nor unusually high wear from excessive motorway mileage. The MOT testing history is largely annual, with tests recorded in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2026, and there is no extended multi-year gap that would indicate the vehicle was laid up or stored for prolonged periods. The dual test entries on 9 March 2026 and the 2021 and 2023 dates reflect standard MOT practice where a fail is followed shortly afterwards by a retest, rather than any irregularity in usage. For a prospective buyer, the front lower suspension arm bushes should be the primary inspection focus given the repeated advisories spanning five years of testing. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension when traversing speed humps or uneven road surfaces, and pay particular attention to any vagueness or delay in steering response that could indicate the worn bushes are permitting excessive movement. The front brake pads noted as wearing thin on the March 2026 fail should be inspected for remaining material thickness, and the discs checked for scoring or lipping, particularly as this wear pattern combined with high-performance 255/35 R 20 tyres suggests the braking system has been worked hard. On a test drive, test the brake pedal for any excessive travel, pulsing under firm pressure, or pulling to one side that might indicate binding calipers or uneven pad wear. The tyre advisories also merit careful physical inspection before purchase. Check all four 255/35 R 20 tyres for even tread depth across the full width, as multiple advisories for edge wear on nearside and offside fronts suggest possible alignment issues, which on an Audi A6 of this era can also indicate worn front suspension components compounding the tyre wear pattern. Inspect the nearside rear sidewall for cuts and the offside rear inner tyre for any bulging or out-of-shape deformation, as this can indicate internal damage or impact damage that may not be visible from a casual glance. Finally, examine the offside front outer alloy wheel for damage, as this has been flagged across multiple tests and may require refurbishment or replacement, particularly if it is contributing to a slow deflation or air leak.