2017 Audi A4 3.0L Petrol · AF67 HHX

The most recent DVSA examination on 4 June 2026 returned a PASS, following a Major failure recorded the day before on 3 June 2026 for an inoperative rear headlamp levelling device. This is a relatively straightforward electrical rectification and should not be considered a structural or mechanical concern, though it is worth confirming that the levelling motor and associated wiring have been properly reinstated and function correctly across the full range of adjustment. Looking at the wider MOT history, the maintenance trend shows a degree of recurring wear in specific areas, namely the front suspension arms and front shock absorbers, alongside recurring advisories for an engine oil leak and rear coil spring mounting corrosion. The pattern is not one of acute deterioration but rather a gradual accumulation of advisories on age-related components, which is broadly consistent with a vehicle of this vintage and mileage accumulating annual wear. However, the fact that a fractured nearside rear coil spring was recorded as a Major failure in June 2025 demonstrates that corrosion on the rear spring seats should be monitored carefully, as this progressed from advisory corrosion in 2022 and 2023 to a structural failure within a relatively short period. The recorded mileage of 82,135 miles against an age of approximately nine years equates to an annual average of around 9,126 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and indicates that the car has been in regular use rather than left standing for extended periods. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing record, with annual tests consistently presented from 2022 through to 2026, suggesting continuous road use and reasonable mechanical engagement of components. This level of usage means that wear-related items such as brake discs, pads, tyres, and suspension bushes will have experienced normal service life consumption rather than the particular risks associated with low-mileage calendar degradation, though it also means that consumables are more likely to be approaching or past their recommended replacement intervals at this stage. Given the recurring advisories on the front suspension, particular attention should be paid to the front upper suspension arm pins or bushes, which have been flagged on both nearside and offside sides across multiple consecutive tests. On a road test, listen for clonking or rattling noises from the front suspension over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, or when turning at low speed, as these symptoms typically indicate that the worn bushes are now allowing excessive movement. The front shock absorbers have also been flagged with light oil misting on two consecutive tests, and while currently within advisory limits, this condition typically progresses and warrants inspection of the shock bodies for fresh seepage, paying attention to any deterioration in ride quality, nose-dive under braking, or excessive body roll through corners. The recurring front engine oil leak should be inspected by checking for fresh oil residue on the sump, cam chain cover, and any associated gaskets, and the oil level on the dipstick should be verified before any purchase. Additionally, the fractured rear coil spring from 2025 and the progressive corrosion noted on the rear spring mounts should prompt a thorough visual inspection of the rear suspension platforms, ideally with the vehicle raised, to confirm there is no renewed corrosion that could threaten structural integrity or spring retention. Beyond the items flagged in the MOT history, a prospective buyer should carry out general age and mileage appropriate checks. Confirm the production date of the tyres fitted, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of tread depth, and inspect the sidewalls carefully for perishing or cracking, particularly given that the offside rear tyre has previously suffered a nail penetration. Verify the service book history and ensure that intervals for brake fluid, coolant, automatic transmission fluid if applicable, and the timing belt or chain service have been observed in line with manufacturer schedules, as calendar-based fluid degradation is a common oversight on vehicles of this age. Check the 12 volt battery health, as units beyond five years of age frequently present starting difficulties and electrical irregularities particularly in cold weather. Finally, examine the underside and wheel arch liners for any corrosion beyond what the MOT advisories have captured, and ensure that the rear headlamp levelling system is fully functional before purchase, as the recent failure suggests this may be a developing electrical concern that warrants confirmation of the repair undertaken.