2017 Audi A4 1.4L Petrol · AS14 TAP

The most recent MOT, carried out on 14 October 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, and the preceding six‑year record shows a succession of passes with only a single advisory concerning a rear child‑seat obstruction in 2023. This pattern indicates a consistently stable maintenance regime, with no deterioration in the vehicle’s roadworthiness evident from the official test data. At nine years old the car has logged 52 026 miles, equating to an average of roughly 5 800 miles per annum – considerably below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 miles per year. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be benign but may also lead to age‑related wear on components that are not mileage‑dependent, such as rubber seals, battery plates and corrosion‑prone metal parts. There are no large mileage spikes or gaps in the MOT chronology that would suggest a sudden surge in wear. Given the vehicle’s age and modest mileage, a prospective buyer should give particular attention to tyre condition, inspecting tread depth, sidewall integrity and any signs of cracking or dry rot that can develop even on low‑use tyres. The 12‑volt battery should be tested for cranking amperage and checked for any sulphation, especially if the car has spent extended periods idle. All fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids – should be examined for colour, level and any particulate contamination, and a full fluid change schedule should be confirmed, as time‑based degradation can occur irrespective of mileage. Brake discs and pads merit visual and tactile inspection for surface rust, glazing or uneven wear, and the calipers should be checked for proper free movement to avoid binding after long storage. Finally, verify the service book for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable) and any recorded suspension or steering component replacements, as these are critical to maintaining handling stability. During a test drive listen for any clunking or squeaking from the front and rear suspension bushes, monitor for vibration or shudder under braking that could indicate disc corrosion, and watch for any exhaust smoke or unusual engine noises that might betray hidden leaks or wear. A thorough visual check of the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the chassis rails and suspension mounting points, will help confirm that the low‑usage history has not concealed corrosion issues that could affect structural integrity.