2017 Audi A1 1.0L Petrol · CE67 PZP

The most recent MOT, carried out on 15 December 2025, was a pass. The only recorded items were a severely deteriorated dust‑cover on the nearside front anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint and an advisory about a slightly worn bush on the off‑side front upper shock absorber. Compared with the preceding years, the pattern shows a clear improvement: after a series of serious brake‑related failures in 2021 and 2024, the vehicle now meets the minimum safety standards, though the lingering wear on suspension components indicates that the underlying condition is still evolving rather than fully resolved. At 81 657 miles for a 2017 model the average annual mileage works out to just over 9 000 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope. There are no obvious periods of prolonged inactivity evident from the recorded mileage, suggesting the car has been driven regularly rather than sitting idle for extended spells. This steady utilisation generally supports predictable wear on consumables, but it also means that components such as the brake discs, pads and suspension bushings have been subjected to a typical load cycle and should be inspected for age‑related degradation. The brake system demands particular attention. The MOT history records repeated rear‑brake problems – excessive binding, severely weakened rear disc and rear pads that fell below the 1.5 mm safety limit – as well as thin off‑side front outer pads. On a test drive the buyer should feel for any pulsation or shudder through the pedal, listen for grinding or squealing noises, and note any pull to one side when braking. A visual inspection should confirm that the rear discs are not scored or cracked, that the pads have at least 3 mm remaining thickness, and that the caliper pistons move freely without sticking. If any of these symptoms are present, a full brake service, including disc resurfacing or replacement and caliper rebuild, will be required before the vehicle can be considered reliably safe. Beyond the brakes, the anti‑roll bar linkage dust‑cover is severely deteriorated and the front upper shock absorber bush shows early wear, both of which can lead to clunking noises and reduced handling precision, especially over uneven road surfaces. The prospective buyer should press the front corners of the car and listen for any metallic knock, check for play in the anti‑roll bar joints, and verify that the shock absorbers return smoothly after compression. Given the vehicle’s age, tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking or dry rot irrespective of tread depth, the 12 V battery should be load‑tested, and all engine oils, coolant and brake fluid should be confirmed as having been changed within the recommended service intervals, as calendar‑based fluid degradation can occur even on modestly used cars. A thorough visual inspection of rust‑prone areas such as wheel arches, under‑body panels and suspension mounts will also help to identify any hidden corrosion that could affect long‑term reliability.