2017 Audi A4 1.4L Petrol · 100 DVB

The most recent DVSA examination on 20 November 2025 resulted in a pass with no advisories or defects recorded, which is a positive immediate indicator. However, evaluating the broader maintenance trend requires looking at the December 2024 test, where a number of advisories were issued that warrant careful attention from a prospective buyer. These included worn front upper suspension arm pins or bushes (inner rear, both sides), front and rear brake discs showing signs of pitting and scoring, and an offside rear tyre with a minor cut. Although none of these were severe enough to cause failure, their presence on both the pass and the failure record from the same date suggests progressive wear rather than an isolated event. Additionally, the December 2024 failure was solely attributable to inoperative windscreen washer jets, which is a minor functional issue easily rectified but also a reminder that the washer system should be verified during any inspection. Overall, the maintenance trend appears reasonably stable but with accumulating wear items on the suspension and braking system that will require monitoring and likely replacement within the next service interval. The recorded mileage of 15,958 miles over a nine-year registration period equates to an average annual mileage of approximately 1,774 miles, which is substantially below the typical usage pattern for a vehicle of this age and class. Such low mileage generally implies either light private use or significant periods of standing, both of which carry their own distinct mechanical implications. Prolonged standing can lead to brake disc corrosion, particularly on the rear axle, and may cause calipers to bind or seize due to corrosion on the guide pins and slider mechanisms. Standing time also accelerates perishing of rubber components, most notably tyre sidewalls, drive belts, and suspension bushes, which can deteriorate through age even when mileage is low. Equally, it is worth noting that exceptionally low recorded mileage can sometimes mask clock discrepancies or extended gaps in use, so verifying the mileage against the service book and any available V5C history is sensible. From a buyer inspection perspective, the advisories relating to the front upper suspension arm pins and bushes deserve particular attention. These components, when worn, typically present on a test drive as a knocking or clunking noise over uneven surfaces, vague or imprecise steering, and uneven tyre wear across the front axle. It is advisable to jack the vehicle and physically check the inner rear bushes on both front upper arms for movement beyond acceptable tolerance. Likewise, the pitted brake discs recorded at all four corners in late 2024, despite the low mileage, are consistent with corrosion from standing rather than wear from use, and should be inspected for lip formation, surface rust, and any binding from the calipers. On a road test, listen for brake shudder under light application and verify that the vehicle pulls away cleanly without any dragging sensation, which would suggest a seized caliper. Given the calendar age of nine years, several time-based service items should be prioritised regardless of the low recorded mileage. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as batteries typically require replacement every five to six years and a failing unit is a common cause of non-starts in low-use vehicles. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and should have been replaced at least every two years irrespective of mileage; verifying the date stamp on the master cylinder reservoir or consulting the service record is worthwhile. Coolant and automatic transmission fluid (where applicable) similarly degrade with age and may be due for renewal. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking and perishing, as the rubber compound hardens with age even when tread depth remains adequate, and any tyre older than six years from its DOT date code should be viewed with caution. Finally, ensuring that the engine is brought up to full operating temperature during the test drive is essential, as short journeys characteristic of low-mileage use can mask issues with the cooling system, thermostat, and catalytic converter efficiency.