2007 Audi A4 1.8L Petrol · AL55 BAL

The vehicle's most recent MOT test, conducted on 4 March 2025, resulted in a pass, though it followed a fail recorded on the same date for several major defects. The major failures on the immediate retest included an inoperative central stop lamp, an illuminated engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), a supplementary restraint system (SRS) warning lamp indicating a fault, and a split offside front outer constant velocity (CV) boot. While the vehicle subsequently passed after presumably addressing these issues, the recurrence of CV boot failures on both front sides over consecutive years and the persistent engine MIL and SRS warning lamp faults point towards a maintenance trend that is inconsistent rather than stable. Across the recorded history, there is a clear pattern of recurring advisories relating to front brake pads wearing thin, front upper suspension arm pin or bush wear, oil leaks, and tyre condition, alongside the major defects already mentioned, suggesting that several mechanical areas require ongoing or imminent attention. The recorded mileage of 129,315 miles on a 2007 Audi A4 indicates an average annual mileage of approximately 6,806 miles, which is broadly typical for the age and class of vehicle. There are no extended unexplained gaps in the recorded mileage between consecutive MOTs that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, although the relatively modest annual mileage does mean that calendar-based degradation of components such as rubber boots, brake discs, suspension bushes, and fluids should be considered as carefully as mileage-based wear. The MOT history does not include a recorded test for the current year, so it is important to confirm that the previous advisories and any repairs undertaken have been properly addressed before relying on the 2025 pass as a current measure of roadworthiness. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the recurring CV boot and driveshaft issues on both front sides, as split boots will lead to grease loss and eventual joint failure if neglected. Symptoms on a test drive to listen for include clicking or knocking noises from the front of the vehicle during full lock turns, indicating worn CV joints. The front suspension arm pin and bush advisories recorded in 2025 suggest wear in the front suspension geometry; on a test drive, listen for clonking or rattling noises over bumps and uneven road surfaces, and inspect for uneven front tyre wear which often accompanies worn suspension bushes. The front brake pad advisory from 2025 should be verified as rectified, and the discs checked for scoring or lipping, especially given the 2021 advisory of binding offside rear brake, which can cause uneven pad wear and disc corrosion. Further inspection should focus on the engine MIL and SRS warning lamp history, as these were recorded as major failures in both 2024 and 2025, indicating persistent or recurring faults in the engine management and airbag systems. Buyers should ideally obtain any diagnostic trouble codes or receipts for recent repairs to confirm the issues have been properly resolved rather than simply cleared. The advisories of oil leaks from the engine and the exhaust box from that period warrant a thorough under-bonnet and under-vehicle examination for fresh oil seepage or exhaust corrosion, particularly given the age of the vehicle. The offside rear brake binding advisory from 2021 suggests possible caliper slider or handbrake mechanism issues which can cause the rear brake to drag, leading to overheating and warped discs. Given the age and modest annual mileage, also inspect the tyres for age-related sidewall cracking or perishing regardless of tread depth, verify a healthy 12V battery, and check that brake fluid, coolant, and timing belt or cam belt replacement intervals have been observed in line with manufacturer schedules for a vehicle of this age and mileage.