2016 Audi Q7 3.0L Diesel · LR66 OSY

The most recent MOT test for this 2016 Audi Q7 was conducted on 2025-09-19 and resulted in a passing outcome, though it included an advisory regarding the near-side rear tyre’s edge wear nearing the legal limit. This follows a pattern of fluctuating results over the past five years, with two major failures in 2024 and 2025—both tied to tyre defects and suspension issues—suggesting a trend of recurring wear-related problems. The earlier MOT failures in 2022 and 2023, particularly the offside rear coil spring mounting corrosion and damage, indicate that the vehicle has faced persistent mechanical challenges, particularly in its suspension system. While the 2025 test passed, the presence of advisories and prior major failures warrants cautious consideration, as these may signal underlying wear progression that could escalate without proactive maintenance. The recorded mileage of 54,615 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 5,462 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended durations, leading to potential issues such as standing corrosion, fluid degradation, and component stiffness. The absence of significant mileage accumulation over the past few years could mask wear from static conditions—such as brake disc corrosion from standing, fluid degradation in the cooling system or brake fluid due to lack of use, or the perishing of rubber components like suspension bushes or seals. Conversely, if the vehicle has been driven more heavily in recent years, the suspension and tyre wear patterns would be more pronounced, though the low mileage record suggests otherwise. Given the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, focusing on the coil springs and their mountings, which have been flagged as problematic. Visually inspect the coil springs for signs of further fracture or deformation, particularly the offside rear spring, and check for any unusual clunking or rattling noises during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate bush wear or spring failure. The tyre advisories from previous MOTs highlight edge wear and cuts, so a full tyre inspection is critical—look for uneven wear patterns, sidewall damage, or signs of excessive tread depth loss. Listen for brake shudder or binding during a test drive, as the prior tyre failures may have contributed to uneven brake pad or disc wear, and check for fluid leaks around the rear wheels, especially near the wheel bearings or suspension components. For practical checks beyond the MOT record, the buyer should verify the vehicle’s tyre condition for signs of age-related perishing, such as cracking or dry-rotting sidewalls, which can compromise structural integrity at high speeds. Given the low mileage and potential standing periods, examine the brake discs for corrosion or binding calipers, which can lead to reduced braking efficiency or uneven wear. Inspect the 12V battery and associated electrical connections for corrosion or poor contact, as prolonged inactivity can exacerbate battery drain issues. Additionally, check the fluid levels in the cooling system, brake fluid reservoir, and power steering reservoir, ensuring they are topped up and free from contamination, as standing fluids can degrade over time. Finally, verify that the service book contains recent stamps for fluid changes and other scheduled maintenance, particularly for the suspension components and tyres, to ensure compliance with manufacturer recommendations.