2017 Audi A4 2.0L Petrol · LE17 BKA

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-09 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included an advisory regarding the near-side rear lower coil spring mounting, which was described as damaged but not severely compromised. This follows a pattern of recent MOT results that show a mix of passing and failing tests, with the most critical failure occurring in 2023, where the offside rear suspension spring mounting was found to have a fractured mounting area significantly reducing its structural integrity. The earlier failure in 2023 also highlighted a missing offside rear road wheel fixing, indicating potential issues with the suspension geometry or mounting hardware that may have contributed to the spring’s failure. While the vehicle has passed subsequent tests, the recurring nature of suspension-related defects suggests a persistent underlying problem that warrants careful attention during inspection. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 85,465 miles at the time of assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,496 miles per year, which is consistent with typical long-term ownership patterns for a nine-year-old car. This level of mileage indicates a vehicle that has been driven regularly but not excessively, reducing the likelihood of severe wear from high-speed or aggressive driving. However, the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the two-year interval between 2021 and 2023—could imply periods of prolonged inactivity, which may have exacerbated wear in components like suspension bushings, brake systems, and fluids due to standing corrosion or degradation. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation suggests that wear from high-mileage driving is not the dominant factor here, but the suspension history suggests that the vehicle’s structural integrity may have been compromised by previous failures, necessitating a thorough inspection of the rear suspension assembly. Given the recent MOT advisory and historical failures, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the rear suspension system. The near-side rear lower coil spring mounting advisory indicates potential fatigue or improper mounting, which could lead to further coil spring failure or misalignment if ignored. On a test drive, listen for unusual suspension clunks or rattles when driving over bumps, particularly on the rear axle, as these may signal loose or failing suspension components. Inspect the rear wheels for uneven tyre wear, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and check for any play or binding in the wheel nuts or hubs. Additionally, visually confirm that the offside rear wheel fixing is securely fitted and that no rust or damage is present around the mounting points, as this failure in 2023 suggests a recurring problem with suspension hardware. If the coil springs appear worn, flattened, or cracked, or if the vehicle exhibits excessive body roll or a sagging rear end, immediate replacement of the rear suspension components is recommended. Beyond suspension checks, the buyer should also verify the condition of the vehicle’s brake system, as prolonged standing or high-mileage usage can accelerate corrosion in brake discs and calipers. Inspect the brake discs for signs of corrosion, warping, or uneven wear, and check for any binding in the calipers or brake hoses. Listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact from worn brake pads or damaged discs. The tyre tread should be checked for adequate depth, and the sidewall should be inspected for cracks or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure over time. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as older batteries may struggle under prolonged inactivity. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in the last two years, consider verifying the service book for any scheduled fluid top-ups, particularly brake fluid, which can degrade over time due to moisture absorption, and engine oil, which should be checked for cleanliness and level. If the service history is incomplete, a comprehensive fluid check and potential fluid top-up should be performed to ensure optimal performance and roadworthiness.