2012 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · BL12 NPA

A front‑suspension failure dominates the recent MOT history – the 12 August 2024 test recorded fractured nearside and off‑side front coil springs, both classed as major defects, yet the car returned a pass just two days later, indicating that the springs were replaced or repaired to a satisfactory standard before the follow‑up inspection. At 63,840 mi for a 2012 model the annualised mileage works out at roughly 4,500 mi per year, well below the typical 8‑10 000 mi average for a vehicle of this age. The MOT record shows a gap between the 2016 and 2024 tests, suggesting either missing data or a period of non‑use; prolonged idle periods can accelerate corrosion of suspension joints and rubber components, while low cumulative wear generally reduces the likelihood of fatigue‑related failures in brakes, steering and drivetrain parts. When assessing the repaired front suspension, feel for any clunk or knock when driving over bumps, and check that the ride height is even and the steering remains steady without excessive play. Inspect the mounting points, bushings and anti‑roll bar links for signs of wear, corrosion or looseness, and verify that the new springs match the original specifications and are correctly torqued. Uneven tyre wear or a pulling sensation on straight‑line driving could indicate lingering issues with the suspension geometry. The windscreen chip noted in 2016 is small and non‑structural but should be monitored for propagation, especially under temperature swings. The recorded nail in the outer‑side front tyre warrants a thorough tyre inspection for puncture repair quality, sidewall integrity and overall tread depth. A comprehensive visual check of the chassis for rust, especially around the front subframe and wheel arches, will help confirm that the vehicle has not suffered hidden damage during the period of low usage.