2018 Audi A4 2.0L Petrol · GD18 FFH

The most recent MOT test on 26 January 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle is currently exhibiting a concerning trend regarding tyre health and general maintenance. While the car has generally passed its tests over the last few years, the recurring nature of tyre-related advisories and a previous failure in early 2024 suggests a pattern of deferred maintenance. The shift from minor sidewall cuts in 2024 and 2025 to multiple tyres being worn close to the legal limit by 2026 indicates that the vehicle is now overdue for a comprehensive replacement of its rubber. With a recorded mileage of 37,887 miles over approximately eight years, this vehicle has averaged roughly 4,736 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the typical UK annual average. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine internals and drivetrain, it often introduces specific mechanical risks associated with periods of standing. Low annual usage can lead to the degradation of rubber components, the accumulation of moisture in the braking system, and the potential for battery health to decline due to infrequent charging cycles. The MOT history highlights a persistent issue with tyre integrity and wear. The 2024 failure for a cut reaching the ply and the 2026 advisories for edge wear on three separate tyres suggest potential wheel alignment issues or uneven loading. During a test drive, the buyer should listen for abnormal road noise or feel for any steering pull or vibration, which could indicate incorrect tracking. Furthermore, the 2024 advisories regarding thin brake pads across both axles suggest that the braking system is a primary maintenance point; the buyer should check for brake disc corrosion or a pulsing sensation during deceleration, which would indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Given the low mileage, it is imperative to verify the service history to ensure that engine oil and other fluids have been changed based on calendar intervals rather than just mileage. The buyer should physically inspect the tyre sidewalls for perishing or hairline cracking, as rubber degrades regardless of use. Additionally, the 12V battery should be tested for its cranking capacity, and the brake calipers should be checked for binding, a common symptom of vehicles that spend long periods stationary. Finally, the deterioration of the registration plates noted in previous years suggests a lack of attention to minor cosmetic upkeep, which may reflect the overall ownership approach.