2017 Audi A6 4.0L Petrol · NS67 OAS

The most recent DVSA examination on 27 May 2026 resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, suggesting that at the point of test the vehicle met all statutory roadworthiness requirements. Reviewing the broader history, the maintenance trend appears stable rather than deteriorating, with passes recorded consecutively from 2020 onwards and no dangerous or major defects appearing at any point. The advisories that have surfaced are minor in nature and relate to consumable wear items such as brake pads and tyres, which is consistent with normal progressive use rather than any systemic mechanical concern. The fact that advisories from 2021, 2023, and 2024 have not reappeared as failures suggests previous remedial work was carried out, and the clean 2026 result indicates the vehicle remains in sound overall condition. With 48,961 miles recorded over approximately nine years, this Audi A6 has covered an average of around 5,440 miles annually, which is notably low for the vehicle's age. Such modest usage typically indicates predominantly short journeys, urban driving, or extended periods of standing between uses. While low mileage generally preserves major drivetrain components such as the engine, transmission, and clutch, it can accelerate deterioration of items that suffer from inactivity rather than wear. Brake discs and calipers are particularly susceptible to corrosion and seizing when underused, and rubber components, fluids, and electrical systems degrade with calendar age regardless of mileage covered. The gap-free MOT history suggests the vehicle has not been laid up for prolonged unlicensed periods, but the low annual figure still warrants attention to age-related condition rather than purely distance-based servicing. Given the low annual mileage and the vehicle's age, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough physical inspection beyond the MOT paperwork. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking, perishing, and checking from age, even if the tread depth appears adequate, as rubber compounds harden and weaken after extended service regardless of wear. The 12V battery is a common failure point on vehicles of this profile and should be load tested, as repeated short journeys and standing periods prevent full recharge cycles. Brake discs should be inspected for surface corrosion, lipping, and free rotation of calipers without binding, particularly after the vehicle has been stationary. Coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil should be checked for service history, as these degrade on a time basis, with brake fluid being hygroscopic and typically requiring renewal every two to three years to prevent internal corrosion within the ABS modulator. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to any suspension noises, as low-mileage vehicles often develop stiff or perished bushes, coil springs, and anti-roll bar links through age rather than travel. Listen for clonks or knocks over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and verify that the vehicle tracks straight without pulling, which would indicate even tyre wear and healthy alignment. The brake pedal should feel firm and progressive without sponginess, and the car should stop in a straight line without shudder, vibration, or pulling, which could reveal warped discs from corrosion or uneven pad bedding. Cold starting behaviour should be observed, as infrequent use can mask weak starting systems, oil leaks from aged seals, or coolant weeping from plastic unions. Finally, confirming a full Audi main agent or specialist service history with time-based rather than purely mileage-based servicing would significantly strengthen confidence in this vehicle's long-term mechanical integrity.