2008 Audi Q7 3.0L Diesel · AM08 LRK

The most recent MOT, dated 7 February 2026, was passed but flagged advisory notes that both rear tyres are close to the legal tread limit and showing edge wear. Over the past four years the vehicle has moved from a series of serious failures – notably excessive suspension ball‑joint wear, a dangerous front brake‑pad thickness, and headlamp aim errors – to a clean pass, indicating that the owner has addressed the major safety items. The pattern suggests a maintenance trajectory that is now stabilising, although the recurring tyre‑wear advisories point to a need for continued vigilance on tyre condition. At 140,626 miles for an 18‑year‑old 2008 Audi Q7 the average annual mileage works out at roughly 7,800 mi, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope. This figure does not betray any periods of extreme high mileage that would accelerate wear on major power‑train components, but it also implies the vehicle has spent a substantial amount of time in service rather than being largely dormant. Consequently, consumables such as brake pads, suspension bushings and tyre rubber will have undergone typical wear cycles for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the rear tyre tread depth and sidewall condition; any uneven wear or cracking could indicate mis‑alignment, worn suspension components or ageing rubber that may soon require replacement. During a road‑test listen for clunking or knocking from the front suspension, especially when traversing bumps, as the MOT history records previous ball‑joint wear on both upper and lower arms – residual play can manifest as vague steering feel or a loose front‑end. Verify that the front brake pads have been replaced since the 2022 dangerous‑pad warning and inspect the discs for scoring or excessive rust, as the pads were under the minimum thickness at that time. Confirm that all exterior lighting – particularly the off‑side headlamp and the position lamps – is fully functional and correctly aimed, and ensure the child‑seat fittings are removed so the adult seat‑belt operation can be examined. Check the condition of the front brake hoses for any signs of cracking or swelling, and look for any leaks around the suspension ball‑joint dust covers, which previously failed to keep contaminants out. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough age‑related inspection is advisable. Examine the tyre sidewalls for dry‑rot or cracking that can occur even on low‑mileage tyres left standing for long periods. Test the 12 V battery voltage and consider a load test, as batteries over 12 years often lose capacity. Inspect the coolant, engine oil and transmission fluid for colour, level and any evidence of contamination – fluids degrade over calendar time regardless of mileage. Look for corrosion on chassis mounting points, especially in the wheel arches and under the front subframe, and ensure the exhaust system is free of cracks or excessive rust. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that any recommended suspension or brake component replacements documented in the MOT records have indeed been carried out.