2008 Audi S8 5.2L Petrol · EY08 AHD

The most recent MOT, carried out on 16 September 2022, was passed but recorded an advisory for an oil leak that was judged not to be excessive under regulation 8.4.1 (a) (i). The preceding test, dated 24 September 2021, also passed with no defects noted. This pattern suggests a generally stable maintenance record, with the only emerging issue being a minor oil seepage that has not yet escalated to a failure. The absence of any serious defects over the two‑year span indicates that the vehicle’s major systems have been kept within acceptable limits, though the advisory signals a point that should be monitored closely. At 125,046 miles recorded in September 2026, the S8 has averaged roughly 6,950 miles per annum over its 18‑year life. This mileage is typical for a high‑performance executive sedan of this vintage and does not, on its own, raise concerns about accelerated wear. However, the relatively modest annual distance could also imply periods of low utilisation or extended storage, which can introduce age‑related degradation such as fluid breakdown, battery sulphation, and rubber component perishing even when mileage is modest. The mileage figure therefore points to a vehicle that has not been heavily abused but may have experienced long idle periods that merit specific inspection. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the source of the oil leak noted in the 2022 MOT. Inspect the engine bay for fresh oil around the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing, oil pan and any ancillary seals. Verify the oil level on the dipstick and look for any oil residue on the ground beneath the car after a short drive. On the road, listen for a faint ticking or whine that could indicate oil starvation, and be alert to any blue‑ish exhaust smoke, especially under load, which would suggest oil entering the combustion chambers. If the leak is confirmed, arrange for the gasket or seal to be replaced and have the oil level and pressure checked after the repair to ensure the engine’s lubrication system is fully restored. Beyond the leak, a comprehensive age‑related inspection is advisable. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening, and confirm that the tread depth remains within legal limits; tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread depth. Check the suspension bushings, ball joints and coil springs for any signs of corrosion, looseness or excessive play, as these components can deteriorate during prolonged periods of standing. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing and ensure the calipers move freely without binding; any uneven pad wear may indicate seized pistons. Test the 12‑volt battery with a load tester, as a vehicle of this age is prone to sulphation, and verify that the coolant, brake fluid and transmission oil have been changed in accordance with the manufacturer’s calendar intervals, looking for moisture contamination or loss of colour. A full service book review, confirming regular oil changes, timing‑chain maintenance and turbocharger servicing, will give further confidence in the mechanical integrity of this high‑performance sedan.