2018 Audi Q2 1.4L Petrol · DA18 FGF

A pattern of tyre deterioration is the defining mechanical thread running through the MOT history of this 2018 Audi Q2, with perishing or cracking flagged on six separate occasions across the 2022, 2023, and 2026 tests. The 2026-04-15 pass was accompanied by the same nearside rear advisory that had caused a failure just one week earlier on 2026-04-08, when misaligned windscreen washer jets were also recorded as a major defect. Outside of these isolated items, the vehicle has returned no advisories relating to brakes, suspension, corrosion, steering, exhaust emissions, or structural integrity across six recorded tests since 2021, and the only outright failure was the washer jet issue corrected shortly afterwards. This indicates a generally sound roadworthiness profile, with the tyre condition being the single recurring observation worth scrutiny. At 22,666 miles over roughly eight years, the annual accumulation rate of approximately 2,833 miles is notably low for the vehicle's age, suggesting either extended periods of standing or predominantly short, infrequent journeys. There are no testing gaps recorded and the mileage progression between tests is consistent with light use, which mechanically means reduced wear on major drivetrain and friction components such as brake discs, pads, and clutch assemblies. Conversely, low annual mileage combined with standing periods can accelerate ageing of rubber items, underbody components, brake calipers through corrosion, and 12V battery capacity, all of which warrant physical inspection rather than mileage-based assumptions. The recurring tyre perishing advisories across multiple test cycles are consistent with age-related rubber degradation rather than tread wear, reinforcing the standing-period element of this usage profile. A prospective buyer should examine all four tyres closely for cracking on the sidewalls and tread shoulders, paying particular attention to the nearside rear and offside front positions that have been repeatedly flagged. Any tyres still in service should be of recent manufacture, as the previous advisory items suggest they may have been replaced periodically. The washers should be operated to confirm both jets deliver fluid across the swept area of the windscreen, and the bonnet mechanism that triggered the misalignment should be checked for correct nozzle seating. Brake discs and calipers, particularly on a low-mileage vehicle prone to surface corrosion through infrequent use, should be visually inspected for pitting or binding, and a firm pedal feel confirmed on the test drive. On the road, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links or control arm bushes that the MOT record has not previously highlighted but are common on Q2s of this vintage. Steering should remain precise and self-centring without pulling to either side under braking or acceleration, and the ABS warning light should extinguish promptly on start-up. Given the low recorded mileage, a thorough underbody examination for surface corrosion on subframe mounting points, brake line ferrules, and exhaust hangers is advisable, even though the MOT history itself has not flagged any structural advisories. Finally, confirming the operation of all interior electrical systems and a healthy 12V battery state would be prudent given the pattern of light use implied by the odometer readings.