2009 Audi A4 2.0L Petrol · LR09 GKX

The most recent DVSA examination on 23 February 2026 resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, and this follows another clean pass in April 2025. The overall trend across the recent tests suggests the vehicle is currently in stable roadworthy condition, with no repeat failures and a tapering of advisory items. The 2024 test did flag wear on both front and rear brake discs and pads, which is consistent with the age and mileage of the car, while the 2023 test recorded a deteriorated offside front CV joint boot. The only outright failure in the record was in April 2022, which was remedied and followed by a clean pass just five days later, indicating that the issues identified were rectified rather than left unattended. Taken together, the maintenance pattern points to a car that has been kept in serviceable condition and is not showing signs of progressive neglect. Against a 17-year vehicle age, the recorded 82,510 miles equates to an average of roughly 4,850 miles per year, which is notably low for a car of this vintage. Such under-utilisation often implies long periods of standing, which carries its own mechanical consequences even where mileage-derived wear is minimal. Standing time promotes surface corrosion on brake discs, potential caliper slide seizure, oxidation of the exhaust system, and gradual degradation of fluids, hoses, and rubber components. Equally, intermittent use can mask developing issues, so a low annual figure should not be interpreted as a guarantee of mechanical health, particularly for a vehicle of this age. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the brake system, as the 2024 advisories noted wear on both front and rear discs and pads, and given the intervening period, further deterioration is plausible. On a test drive, listen for any scraping or grinding from the calipers, watch for shudder or vibration through the steering wheel under firm braking, and check for any pulling to one side, which could indicate a binding caliper or uneven pad wear. The 2023 advisory concerning the offside front inner CV joint boot is also worth a focused inspection, as a deteriorated boot will allow grease to escape and moisture to enter, eventually leading to joint failure. Listen for a clicking or knocking noise on full lock manoeuvres, and inspect the boot itself for splits or leaking grease. Likewise, the earlier coil spring failures on both rear corners in 2022 should prompt a check for any sagging at the rear, clonking noises over bumps, or uneven ride height, as coil springs on a vehicle of this age are susceptible to fatigue failure. Beyond the items directly referenced in the MOT history, the age and low annual mileage of this Audi A4 warrant a number of time-based inspections. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking and perishing, which can occur even where tread depth remains adequate, particularly on a vehicle that may have spent extended periods stationary. The 12V battery is highly likely to be due for replacement given the calendar age, and a standing vehicle is particularly prone to premature battery failure. Brake discs should be checked for surface rust and any evidence of binding, while all fluid specifications, including brake fluid, coolant, and the timing belt or chain service history, should be verified against the manufacturer's recommended intervals for a 2009 vehicle. Finally, a thorough inspection for oil leaks from the engine, particularly around the cam chain tensioner and turbo oil feed lines common to this generation, together with a check for coolant leaks from the water pump and thermostat housing, would form a sensible part of any pre-purchase assessment.