2012 Audi A6 2.0L Diesel · LS12 XMJ

The most recent MOT test on 26 June 2026 resulted in a pass, although it was accompanied by a notable cluster of advisories that warrant attention from a prospective buyer. Both front tyres were flagged as worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, and both rear brake discs were recorded as worn, pitted or scored. The front tyre edge wear is consistent with a geometry issue, most likely tracking misalignment or worn front suspension components, both of which have appeared progressively in the test history. The pitted rear brake discs suggest the discs have reached a stage where they will require replacement at the next disc pad change, as new pads will not bed in correctly against a corroded surface. The maintenance trend across the four recorded tests shows a gradual accumulation of advisories rather than acute failures, indicating that the vehicle is generally roadworthy but is being maintained reactively rather than proactively, with several wear items now due or imminent. With 121,579 miles recorded over approximately fourteen years, this A6 averages around 8,684 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and reflects consistent use rather than long periods of standing. There is no evidence of large mileage gaps or rapid accumulation within the available MOT history, which is a positive indicator that the drivetrain, timing chain, turbocharger and dual-clutch or automatic transmission have all been worked regularly and are less likely to suffer from oil starvation, seal drying or converter glazing. Even so, at this mileage many major service items will already have been completed at least once, so verifying the timing belt or chain service interval, automatic transmission fluid and filter change, and recent major items such as the water pump and thermostat is highly advisable before purchase. The recurring advisory pattern across multiple tests is the most important area for inspection. The front lower suspension arm pin or bush wear was first noted in 2024 and again in 2025, and the 2026 test shows front tyre edge wear that is almost certainly linked to this deterioration. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps, uneven road surfaces and during full-lock manoeuvres, and feel for vagueness in the steering or wandering at motorway speeds. Also inspect both front control arm bushes by rocking the wheels at the front lower point to detect excessive movement, and check the rear brake discs by feel through the wheel spokes for a sharp lip on the outer edge and any visible corrosion pitting. The front wheel bearing roughness that caused a major failure in June 2024 was evidently remedied, but wheel bearings on a high-mileage Audi of this generation are a known wear item and should be re-checked by rotating the wheel by hand for any roughness or grumble. Beyond the recorded defects, several age-related items deserve physical verification. The tyres themselves should be examined for sidewall perishing or cracking, which is common on vehicles kept outdoors regardless of tread depth, and the production date code on the sidewall should be checked as tyres over five years old will be hardening even if the tread is legal. The 12-volt battery is likely approaching the end of its service life and should be load-tested, as a failing battery can cause false sensor faults on modern Audis. Inspect the coolant and brake fluid for evidence of recent replacement, as brake fluid in particular should be renewed every two years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature, and check the engine oil on the dipstick for level, colour and any mayonnaise-like residue around the oil cap suggesting a failing coolant seal or head gasket. Finally, confirm that the headlamp aim adjustment, which was rejected as a major defect in June 2024, has been properly set and that both headlamp levelling motors operate smoothly through their full range, as a sticking motor will cause an immediate MOT failure at the next test.