2015 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · FY15 FPV

A recurring concern with the rear suspension emerges from the MOT record: a serious fluid leak was recorded on the off‑side rear shock absorber in 2019, and a light misting of oil on the nearside rear shock was noted as an advisory in the most recent 2024 test. Both entries point to progressive wear or seal failure in the rear shock units, suggesting that the rear suspension may be approaching the end of its serviceable life despite the vehicle having passed each test overall. At 155,906 mi for a 2015 model the annual average mileage sits around 14,200 mi, which is well above the typical UK average of roughly 8‑10 k mi per year. The MOT history shows no large gaps in testing, indicating the vehicle has been kept on the road consistently rather than stored for extended periods. Such mileage density accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads, bushings and the shock absorbers already flagged, and it raises the likelihood of hidden fatigue in components that are not inspected by MOT, for example engine mounts and drivetrain bearings. When inspecting the car, pay particular attention to the rear suspension. Listen for clunking or excessive bounce over bumps, and feel for any uneven rear ride height that could indicate a failing shock or a leaking seal. Examine the shock bodies for oil residue and check the mounting points for corrosion or cracked bushings. Verify tyre depth across the tread, especially on the nearside rear where an advisory in 2020 warned of wear close to the legal limit; uneven wear may also hint at mis‑aligned suspension components. Test all exterior lighting, confirming that both headlamps are correctly aimed and that the off‑side front position lamp illuminates, as previous failures in these areas could reappear if the alignment or bulb circuits have not been corrected. Given the documented rear shock issues and the high mileage, a thorough pre‑purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic should include a pressure test of the rear shock absorbers, a full suspension bushings check, and a tyre inspection for sidewall integrity. Replacing the rear shocks proactively would mitigate the risk of sudden loss of damping performance, while confirming that the lighting system is fully functional will ensure compliance with current road‑legal standards.