2016 Audi A8 4.0L Petrol · AD11 HEY

The MOT history for this 2016 Audi A8 shows two recorded failures during the recent testing period, each linked to a distinct mechanical concern, with the intervening passes carrying advisory notes that narrow down the wear pattern. The first failure in February 2024 was caused by split dust covers on both front lower rear arm ball joints, allowing contamination of the joints themselves, and the subsequent pass five days later still carried the same advisory note regarding the nearside front tyre sidewall damage. A second failure in January 2025 was triggered by an exhaust carbon monoxide reading exceeding manufacturer limits at the second fast idle test, indicating a catalyst or lambda sensor issue at that point, and the immediate retest the following week passed with only the persistent rear tyre nail advisory. The most recent test on 30 January 2026 returned a clean pass with no advisories, suggesting that the documented faults from the prior two years have been addressed, though a buyer should confirm what remedial work was carried out to clear the suspension ball joint and exhaust emissions issues. Annual mileage over the ten-year life of the vehicle averages roughly 7,700 miles per year based on the recorded 77,311 figure, which sits within the normal band for a luxury saloon of this age and avoids the concerns associated with either very low annual use or high-mileage drivetrain fatigue. There are no significant gaps in the annual testing cadence, with tests recorded consecutively from 2021 through to 2026, confirming the vehicle has remained in regular road use rather than being laid up for extended periods. This continuous usage pattern is mechanically favourable, as it reduces the likelihood of dried seals, seized brake calipers, or perished rubber components that often affect vehicles standing for long durations, and it means the recorded advisories are more representative of genuine wear progression rather than deterioration through inactivity. For a prospective buyer, the priority components to inspect are the front suspension lower rear arms and their ball joints, given the recorded failure where both dust covers had split. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front end, particularly over speed humps, uneven surfaces, or when turning at low speed, as these are classic symptoms of worn or contaminated ball joints. Have the front suspension physically checked for any play in the ball joints by rocking the wheels, and inspect the rubber dust covers visually for splits or grease contamination. The 265/35 R21 rear tyres should also be examined closely, since nails were recorded in both rear tyres at the 2025 tests, and the nearside front tyre was previously flagged for outer sidewall damage in two places. Check the sidewalls of all four tyres for any bulges, cracks, or scuffing, particularly the nearside front, and ensure that any replacement tyres match the required 265/35 R21 specification. Given the exhaust carbon monoxide exceedance at the 2025 test, the emissions system warrants attention even though the 2026 pass indicates it was subsequently resolved. On a test drive, monitor for any dashboard warning lights relating to the engine management or emissions, and be alert to any rough idle, hesitation under acceleration, or unusual exhaust note that could suggest the catalyst or lambda sensors are degrading again. Confirm what repair or component replacement was undertaken to clear the 2025 emissions failure, as catalyst replacements on an A8 of this age represent a notable cost if the issue recurs. Beyond these flagged items, a compression test, oil inspection for any signs of coolant contamination, and a scan for stored fault codes across all control units would be advisable due to the vehicle's age and the complexity of its four-wheel-drive and chassis systems.