2017 Audi Q7 3.0L Diesel · CE04 OSF

A recurring pattern of suspension and braking component wear defines the mechanical profile of this vehicle, with the most recent test on 13 July 2026 showing a pass following a failure for a non-conforming registration plate. While the 2026 inspection was successful, it left a cluster of advisories regarding the front braking system, specifically noting that both nearside and offside front brake discs are worn, pitted, or scored, and that the front brake pads are wearing thin. This follows a more significant period of mechanical instability in July 2025, where the vehicle failed on multiple major defects including a fractured nearside rear coil spring, a serious fluid leak from the nearside rear shock absorber, and an excessively worn nearside front suspension arm bush. The vehicle has covered 103,440 miles over its nine-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of approximately 11,493 miles. This usage rate is consistent with typical UK driving patterns for a vehicle of this age and class. Such mileage suggests a steady application of mechanical stress across the drivetrain and chassis components rather than the extreme wear associated with high-mileage commercial use or the potential deterioration from long periods of inactivity. The consistent annual testing history indicates regular road use, though the specific failures recorded suggest that components such as suspension bushings and springs are reaching the end of their service life cycles. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front braking assembly and the underside of the vehicle. The advisories regarding pitted and scored discs, alongside thinning pads, necessitate a thorough inspection of the braking performance. During a test drive, listen for any rhythmic grinding noises or metallic scraping when applying the brakes, and feel for any pedal judder or vibrations that could indicate uneven disc surfaces. Additionally, the recorded damage to the nearside front under tray and the previous advisory regarding a broken nearside underbody tray should be physically inspected to ensure no loose plastic components are dragging or causing aerodynamic issues at speed. The history of suspension failures, specifically the fractured coil springs and leaking shock absorbers, warrants a focused evaluation of the vehicle's handling and ride quality. On the test drive, pay close attention to the vehicle's response to uneven road surfaces or speed bumps; listen for any knocking, clunking, or squeaking sounds emanating from the wheel arches, which could indicate that previous repairs to the suspension arms or springs have not fully addressed underlying wear in the bushes or dampers. Given the previous major failure of a shock absorber due to a fluid leak, a visual check of the suspension struts for any signs of fresh oil misting or dampness is also advisable.