2016 Audi A4 3.0L Diesel · HM51 APR

The most recent MOT record for this 2016 Audi A4 reveals a critical and unresolved structural issue, casting serious doubt over its current roadworthiness. The vehicle failed its December 2025 test at 90,824 miles due to a fractured or broken offside rear coil spring—a defect that would have required immediate repair to pass. Despite this, the same test date shows a passed entry with no defects, suggesting either a clerical error or that the fault was not properly identified. Prior to this, the car had passed three consecutive annual MOTs (December 2022–2024) without any advisories or defects, indicating a stable maintenance history until this sudden failure. The presence of a major suspension defect now demands urgent verification, as coil spring failure can compromise ride stability, tyre wear, and even steering control over time. The mileage accumulation of 90,824 miles over roughly ten years aligns closely with average usage for its age, averaging around 9,082 miles annually. There are no red flags in the mileage progression—no sudden spikes or prolonged inactivity—that might suggest neglect or heavy-duty service. The gaps between tests are consistent (approximately 12–18 months), with mileage increments reflecting steady, moderate driving. The lack of advisories or defects in the 2022–2024 tests further supports the idea that the car was well-maintained until the recent coil spring failure, which appears as an isolated incident rather than part of a broader pattern of deferred maintenance. For any prospective buyer, the fractured coil spring must be the top priority—this is not a minor wear item but a structural component whose failure could lead to unsafe handling or accelerated damage to other suspension parts. Beyond this, a thorough inspection should verify the condition of the remaining rear suspension bushes, as coil spring failure can stress adjacent components. The brakes, though not flagged in recent tests, should also be checked for uneven wear, given the potential for misalignment caused by the unsprung mass imbalance. Finally, while the MOT history shows no corrosion or exhaust emissions issues, a closer look at the undercarriage for rust—particularly around control arms, subframes, and exhaust mounts—would be prudent, given the vehicle’s age and the UK’s often harsh road conditions. The clean prior record suggests the car was previously cared for, but the coil spring defect now demands immediate attention before any purchase.