2017 Audi A1 1.0L Petrol · HW67 AFN

Recurrent suspension and braking component wear defines the mechanical history of this Audi A1, which successfully passed its most recent MOT on 11 July 2026 with no recorded defects. While the current test status is clear, the vehicle has demonstrated a clear pattern of degradation in its front-end architecture over the preceding three years. Specifically, the progression from advisories regarding suspension arm bushes in 2024 to a major failure for excessive wear on the offside front suspension arm in 2025 indicates that the steering and handling geometry has been subject to notable stress. The absence of defects in the latest inspection suggests these components were addressed, but the history of recurring wear necessitates a focused assessment of the chassis integrity. Accumulating only 27,035 miles over nine years results in an average annual usage of approximately 3,004 miles. This low-mileage profile is consistent across the vehicle's history, suggesting that the car has experienced infrequent, short-distance journeys rather than extended periods of inactivity. While this reduces the total operational hours on the engine and transmission, it places higher relative demand on the suspension and braking systems, which are prone to accelerated wear and surface corrosion when a vehicle is not driven regularly enough to maintain component lubrication and prevent the build-up of oxidation on metal surfaces. During a test drive, you must pay close attention to the front suspension performance, as the history of bush wear can often lead to secondary issues with tracking and tyre alignment. Listen for any metallic knocking or clunking sounds when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, which would indicate residual play in the control arms or anti-roll bar links. Additionally, verify the steering response for any vagueness or pulling to one side, as this can be a symptom of uneven wear in the suspension geometry that was previously flagged by testers. The braking system also requires verification, given the 2025 advisories regarding disc wear. Although the discs were not flagged as failing, you should check for any pedal judder during firm braking applications, which could suggest that the discs have become warped or unevenly worn. Furthermore, ensure that the reversing lamp operates consistently when reverse gear is engaged, as this was a previous point of failure in 2022. A thorough inspection of the underside should also be conducted to confirm that the nearside rear coil spring, which showed signs of corrosion in 2025, has not developed further structural degradation that could compromise the vehicle's ride height or handling stability.