2017 Audi A6 2.0L Diesel · BP17 GYH

The 2017 AUDI A6 presents a mixed roadworthiness profile marked by recurring headlamp alignment failures interspersed with generally clean passes. The most recent MOT examination on 2025-09-22 resulted in a passing result with no recorded defects, indicating that the persistent aiming errors had been resolved at least once since the last failure. However, this clean outcome sits atop a pattern of recurrent optical system issues—specifically nearside and offside headlamp aims being recorded as too high during the 2024-09-27 and 2025-09-22 tests—which suggests either intermittent calibration problems or underlying mounting bracket adjustments that have not achieved lasting stability. The presence of a current brake pad thickness advisory alongside these lighting faults indicates that while the critical safety systems remain functional, several non-structural but observable deterioration areas require attention before committing to purchase. At 88,895 miles on a nine-year-old vehicle, the average annual consumption of approximately 9,877 miles aligns with expected usage patterns for a model of this age, though the distribution across the test intervals warrants scrutiny. The gap between the 2020-12-02 test (which carried multiple tyre and light-related advisories) and the subsequent 2021-09-29 pass represents a six-month period without recorded findings, followed by another clean interval through 2024, with the first failure appearing in early 2024. The most notable anomaly is the clustering of headlamp failures within a narrow two-year window (2024-2025), occurring just before the recent clean MOT, which may indicate progressive strain on the alignment mechanism rather than random occurrence. While the mileage itself does not suggest extreme wear, the timing of the failures and the absence of other systemic issues point to component-specific degradation rather than generalised engine or drivetrain breakdown. The headlamp positioning failures are the most immediate mechanical concerns to verify during a test drive. Pay particular attention to whether the beams illuminate correctly when the vehicle is in forward motion, listening for any knocking sounds over bumps that could indicate loose mounts or misaligned housings, and checking that both left and right lights maintain proper height and angle throughout the journey. Any discrepancy in aiming should be corrected before considering the vehicle roadworthy, as improperly aimed lights create operational hazards and may require permanent adjustment work. The front brake pad thickness advisory from September 2023 remains relevant even though the most recent MOT was clean, as advisories persist until rectified and can deteriorate rapidly under load. During the test drive, monitor brake pedal feedback for any judder or pulsation, particularly when approaching corners or decelerating, which would signal accelerated wear despite the lack of a current failure. Additionally, inspect the front tyres for uneven wear patterns and confirm they are not excessively worn on the inner edges—a condition previously noted in December 2020—and verify that sidewall damage is absent. These three systems collectively represent the primary areas where the vehicle requires verification before it can be considered fully roadworthy for daily use.