2009 Audi A4 1.8L Diesel · FV09 FWD

A 2009 Audi A4 with eight consecutive MOT tests on record shows a broadly stable roadworthiness pattern, dominated by a single failure on 13 August 2025 alongside a series of recurring advisories. The most recent test on 27 July 2026 resulted in a pass, with only a minor deterioration of the rear registration plate noted, continuing a trend that has otherwise been free of serious defects since 2021. The August 2025 failure is worth investigating because it occurred on the same date as a pass, indicating the vehicle was presented twice that day; understanding the specific failure reason is essential before purchase, as the DVSA record does not detail what caused the initial rejection. Beyond that isolated event, the advisory history points to cosmetic and minor wear issues rather than any progressive structural or mechanical deterioration, which is a reasonably reassuring signal for a vehicle of this age. With 94,986 miles recorded over 17 years, this A4 has covered approximately 5,587 miles annually, a notably low accumulation rate that places it well below typical mileage expectations for the model. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing record, suggesting the vehicle has remained on the road throughout its life, though the low annual figure implies considerable periods of light use or standing. Mechanically, this usage profile tends to preserve the engine internals and transmission from wear-driven failures, but it can accelerate degradation of rubber components, brake discs, and underbody protection due to infrequent operation and exposure to moisture without regular heat cycling. The interplay between light use and the advisory history should be examined carefully on inspection, particularly for corrosion and perished rubber items. The tyre-related advisories recorded on the nearside front in August 2025 merit close attention during a pre-purchase inspection. The flags for slight cracking or perishing and a shallow cut suggest the front tyres were nearing the end of their useful life even though the damage was not deemed deep enough to reach the cords. On a test drive, listen for any increase in road noise from the front axle, particularly over uneven surfaces, which could indicate perishing has progressed since the advisory was issued. Inspect the sidewalls carefully for hairline cracks and check the tread depth across the full width, as uneven wear across the front pair could point to tracking or suspension geometry issues that have not yet been formally recorded. The front registration plate deterioration flagged in 2025 also warrants checking, as plates of this age can suffer fixing screw corrosion that may damage the bodywork when removed. The remaining advisories concerning the offside rear direction indicator discolouration and the ongoing registration plate wear are largely cosmetic, though the indicator issue should be verified to ensure it has not deteriorated into an actual fault since the test. Given the vehicle's age and low mileage, a thorough inspection should focus on areas that suffer from standing or infrequent use: check for moisture accumulation in the boot and under the spare wheel area, examine the underbody for any corrosion beginning to form on subframe members and suspension components, and verify that all brake discs are free from significant surface rust pitting that could indicate prolonged inactivity. On the road, pay attention to any brake judder on initial application, as seized or heavily corroded caliper slides are common on low-mileage vehicles of this vintage, and confirm that the steering responds without knocking or vagueness through turns, which could reveal wear in the front suspension linkages that has not yet manifested in an MOT failure.