2021 Audi SQ8 Black Edition Tfsi Quat A 4.0L Petrol · AP71 UHG

The most recent DVSA examination on 24 December 2025 recorded a PASS, though it was accompanied by four advisories, indicating that while the vehicle remained roadworthy at the time of test, several components are approaching the threshold where remedial attention will shortly be required. The earlier test on 18 December 2024 returned a clean pass with no defects recorded, suggesting an overall maintenance trend that is broadly stable but with emerging wear concerns now manifesting at the front axle. Any progression from a clean pass to a pass carrying multiple advisories should be viewed as a signal that the vehicle is entering a phase where proactive servicing will be necessary to prevent subsequent test failures. The recorded mileage of 28,834 miles over an approximate five-year period equates to an annual average of around 5,767 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this type and age. Such low usage is consistent with predominantly short journeys, urban motoring, or extended periods of standing between uses, all of which carry their own mechanical implications. Infrequent operation tends to promote surface corrosion on brake discs and calipers, leading to binding or juddering upon reapplication, accelerated deterioration of the 12V battery due to incomplete charge cycles, and degradation of rubber components through lack of regular movement. Conversely, the limited mileage will have spared the drivetrain, clutch, and major internal wear surfaces, which is a positive factor provided the standing-related deterioration has been addressed. The advisories relating to both front tyres being worn close to the legal limit and worn on edge warrant immediate attention, as tyres at this condition will require replacement before any further use and may indicate an underlying geometry issue. Edge wear specifically can point to misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or incorrect wheel balance, and this concern aligns closely with the two further advisories recorded for the nearside and offside front upper suspension arm pins or bushes showing wear. On a test drive, any symptoms of uneven or stepped tyre wear, steering vagueness, or a knocking or clunking noise from the front suspension over uneven surfaces or during full-lock manoeuvres should be investigated without delay, as these bushes will likely progress to a state of excessive movement and subsequent MOT failure if left unchecked. Beyond the recorded advisories, a prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection given the low annual mileage. Brake discs should be examined for pronounced lipping and surface rust, and the caliper sliders should be checked for free movement to confirm they are not seizing as a result of extended standing. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from sulphation and reduced capacity. All fluid systems should be reviewed against calendar intervals rather than mileage alone; brake fluid should ideally be renewed every two years irrespective of use, coolant should be inspected for condition and concentration, and the engine oil and filter should be confirmed as within service date, particularly verifying that the onboard service interval has been reset correctly. Finally, the exterior should be examined for evidence of kerbing damage to the large-diameter alloy wheels, and the underbody should be inspected for corrosion consistent with limited winter use or storage conditions.