2012 Audi A6 2.0L Diesel · FN12 BPO

Accumulating wear on friction components and chassis dampers defines this vehicle's testing trajectory, culminating in multiple advisories for complete brake replacement and compromised rear damping. The vehicle passed its latest MOT test on 6 November 2025, which immediately followed an initial refusal on 24 October 2025 caused by a non-functional nearside front position lamp. While the underlying structural integrity has remained clear of rust advisories throughout its documented history, the transition from consecutive clean test results between 2021 and 2024 to widespread wear advisories in late 2025 signals that several core mechanical assemblies require prompt service intervention. Accumulating 177,375 miles over approximately fourteen years equates to an average annual usage of roughly 12,670 miles. This elevated mileage profile aligns with sustained long-distance driving typical of an executive saloon, which generally subjects bodywork to less aggressive stop-start stress than urban use but applies relentless mechanical duty cycle wear to running gear. Consistent year-on-year mileage accumulation without extended periods off the road means components wear predictably, though high mileage inevitably places heavy demands on the multi-link suspension geometry, wheel bearings, and friction surfaces. Prospective buyers must focus directly on the specific friction and suspension advisories recorded during the latest testing cycle. Both front brake pads were flagged as wearing thin, accompanied by worn brake discs across both the front and rear axles. During a road test, evaluate braking performance by listening for metallic grinding or squealing, checking for pedal judder or pulsation during higher-speed deceleration, and ensuring the vehicle remains straight under emergency braking without pulling to either side. Furthermore, the nearside rear shock absorber was noted for a light misting of oil, confirming an active hydraulic seal leak. Assess the rear damping by listening for dull clunking or thumping noises from the nearside rear quarter over speed bumps, and feel for any floaty, unstable wallowing through corners or over undulations. Given the overall vehicle weight and past recorded failures, a complete physical check of the wheel assemblies and tyres is essential. A previous dangerous refusal in 2020 resulted from a structural bulge on the inner sidewall of the offside front tyre, an issue often triggered by pothole impacts on heavy saloons fitted with low-profile rubber. Inspect the inner sidewalls of all four tyres by hand where accessible to ensure structural integrity and check for uneven tread wear. Finally, pay attention to the front multi-link suspension by listening for sharp metallic knocks over cracked road surfaces or vague centering through the steering wheel, which would indicate degraded rubber suspension bushes or ball joints.