2013 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · DF13 MFJ

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 July 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the preceding five years the MOT record shows a mixed picture: a failure in 2022 for multiple major items (CV‑boot splits, suspension ball‑joint dust‑cover loss and serious rear‑shock fluid leaks) followed by a series of passes that still recorded a number of advisories and minor defects, notably deteriorating CV‑boots, upper suspension arm bush wear and tyre tread approaching the legal limit. The trend therefore appears to be stabilising, with the most serious faults having been addressed sufficiently to achieve a clean pass, but a number of recurring wear items remain that will require attention in the near term. At 157,201 miles the 2013 Audi A4 has accumulated an average of roughly 12,000 miles per annum, which is above the typical UK private‑car average of about 8‑10 000 miles per year. This level of utilisation suggests accelerated wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes, suspension bushings and drivetrain joints. There are no obvious mileage gaps in the recorded history, so the wear is likely to be continuous rather than the result of long periods of storage. Consequently the buyer should anticipate that components with service intervals tied to mileage – for example brake discs, pads, tyre tread and CV‑boots – may be approaching the end of their useful life. When inspecting the car, give particular focus to the constant‑velocity (CV) boots on both front drive shafts; the MOT notes have repeatedly flagged severe deterioration and, in 2022, outright splits. Look for grease leakage around the joints, splatter on the inner wheel arch and any clicking or whine when turning at low speed, which would indicate joint ingress of dirt and impending failure. The upper suspension arm pins and bushings have been recorded as worn on both sides, so check for play by applying firm pressure to the wheel while the vehicle is lifted, listening for clunks, and feeling for any looseness in the steering column. The rear shock absorbers suffered serious fluid leaks in 2022; verify that the rear springs are not bottoming out and that the car does not exhibit excessive bounce or a pronounced rear‑end dive under braking. The near‑side rear brake disc was noted as pitted and the rear pads were reported thin in 2022, so a visual inspection of disc surface for scoring and measurement of pad thickness is essential, and any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes should be reported. Finally, the front tyres were flagged as dangerously low in 2024; confirm that all four tyres have tread well above 1.6 mm, are free from sidewall cracks or dry‑rot, and that the tyre pressures are correct. Beyond the specific defects, a vehicle of this age and mileage should be examined for age‑related issues. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and test the charge; a 12‑volt lead‑acid unit approaching ten years often requires replacement. Examine the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the wheel arches, sills and suspension mounting points, as prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken structural integrity. Verify that the timing chain (or belt, depending on the engine variant) has been serviced at the recommended interval and that there is no abnormal engine noise indicative of chain stretch. Check that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are at the correct level and appear clean, and that the service book shows regular oil changes and any required major services such as the DSG clutch or DSG oil change if the model is equipped with a dual‑clutch gearbox. A thorough test drive listening for any unusual rattles, vibrations, or exhaust smoke will give further confidence in the car’s mechanical condition before purchase.