2010 Audi A4 1.8L Petrol · ML10 AAV

The most recent DVSA MOT test result dated 30 March 2026 is recorded as a pass with no defects, which immediately follows a failure on the same date for multiple major items. The earlier tests from 2023, 2024, and 2025 all returned clean passes, so on the surface the record had suggested a stable and well-maintained vehicle. However, the cluster of four major defects at the most recent test is a significant concern and indicates that although the car has now been put right sufficiently to pass, there was an underlying deterioration in the suspension and drivetrain that had not previously been flagged. A prospective buyer should not view the latest pass in isolation; the fact that both rear coil springs, a front wheel bearing, and a CV joint boot all required attention within the same test suggests either age-related fatigue or sustained use over poorer road surfaces, and these systems warrant close physical inspection even though the car is now through the test. The recorded mileage of 119,204 miles over a 16-year working life equates to an average of approximately 7,450 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment, particularly one that has likely been used as a long-distance commuter or mixed-use family saloon. There are no obvious large gaps in the recorded MOT history, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use rather than left standing for prolonged periods, which is generally favourable for the health of seals, brakes, and the drivetrain. That said, the mileage is now well into the upper third for an Audi A4 of this generation, and components such as the dual-clutch or automatic gearbox, turbocharger, and engine ancillaries will be approaching the latter stages of their expected service life, so verification of comprehensive and recent servicing is essential. Given that the failure history points to fractured rear coil springs, a rough offside front wheel bearing, and a split nearside front CV boot, a physical inspection should concentrate on these areas even though the work has now been completed. Listen for any residual clonking or knocking from the rear suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which could indicate that the replacement springs were of inferior quality, that the spring seats are corroded, or that the rear shock absorbers were also marginal at the time of failure. The offside front wheel bearing should be checked by rotating the wheel by hand for any notchiness or roughness, and the car should be test-driven at motorway speeds to detect any humming, drone, or vibration that might suggest the replacement bearing has not resolved the issue or that the opposite side is also approaching failure. On the nearside front CV joint, inspect the new boot for correct fitment, ensure the retaining clips are intact, and feel for any clicking or juddering under full steering lock or during sharp acceleration, which would indicate that the joint has been contaminated and requires replacement rather than just a re-booting. Beyond the specific defects, a buyer should perform a thorough age-appropriate inspection given the mileage and calendar life of this vehicle. Check all four tyres, including any spare, for sidewall perishing, cracking, or uneven wear patterns that might point to alignment or suspension geometry issues left behind by the recent spring failure. Examine the brake discs for lipping and surface corrosion, particularly given the typical British winter driving conditions, and verify that the calipers are not binding by confirming the vehicle rolls freely on a level surface when released with the handbrake off. Inspect the underside, including suspension arms, subframes, and exhaust mounting points, for corrosion typical of a 16-year-old vehicle, paying particular attention to the rear spring platforms and front strut towers. Verify that the cambelt and, if applicable, the timing chain service interval has been observed, that the 12V battery is holding charge, and that all fluids including brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox oil have been changed in line with time-based rather than purely mileage-based schedules. Finally, confirm the service book stamps and cross-reference them with the mileage recorded at each MOT to ensure there are no inconsistencies before committing to purchase.