2014 Audi A6 2.0L Diesel · NY63 DBV

The most recent DVSA examination on 18 September 2025 resulted in a Pass, although the test was not entirely clean. The same vehicle had failed just seven days earlier on 11 September 2025, and it is notable that several advisories present on the fail carried straight through to the pass, namely the corroded rear sub-frame and the worn front suspension arm pins or bushes on both sides. While no immediate retest is required, the emergence of chassis corrosion and suspension wear items on two successive examinations suggests an ongoing downward trend in mechanical condition rather than a one-off finding. The earlier passes from February 2023, February 2024 and September 2024 were largely clean, so the appearance of sub-frame corrosion, suspension bush wear, a deteriorated offside front drive shaft CV boot, a twisted nearside rear brake hose and edge-worn rear tyres within a short window indicates that the vehicle is beginning to show its age and should be approached with proportionate scrutiny. The recorded mileage of 125,251 miles across approximately twelve years equates to an annual average of around 10,400 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this vintage and consistent with regular mixed driving. There is no evidence in the MOT record of significant gaps in usage or of rapid mileage accumulation between tests; the vehicle has been presented for examination at reasonably regular intervals, which is a positive indicator that it has remained in active service. This pattern of consistent, moderate usage is generally favourable for mechanical longevity, as it avoids the particular problems associated with very low mileage or extended periods of standing. Nevertheless, at this overall mileage, the major service items such as timing belt or chain verification, automatic gearbox fluid renewal, and cooling system attention are all relevant considerations for any prospective buyer, irrespective of how the vehicle has been used. The recurring advisories on the front suspension arm pins or bushes warrant particular attention, as these components govern wheel alignment and ride quality. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks from the front end when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, and pay attention to vague or wandering steering response, uneven inner or outer front tyre wear, and any vibration through the steering wheel. Although the advisories state the wear is not yet resulting in excessive movement, the deterioration is recent and progressive, and replacement of the affected bushes or pins is likely to be required in the near term. The advisory concerning rear sub-frame corrosion should likewise be treated seriously. While the examiner has judged the unit not to be seriously weakened at present, sub-frame corrosion on an Audi of this era can advance rapidly, particularly in regions subject to winter road salt. During a physical inspection, examine the rear axle area on a ramp or over a pit, looking for flaking, bubbling, or perforation of the metal, and check that all mounting bolts and adjacent brake lines are sound. The deteriorated offside front drive shaft CV boot is also a point of concern; if left unattended, it will allow grease to escape and permit water ingress, leading to eventual joint failure and costly replacement. On a road test, listen for clicking or knocking noises from the front of the vehicle during full-lock turns, which would indicate that contamination of the joint has already progressed. Beyond the recorded items, an advisory on rear tyres worn close to the legal limit and on the edge is a tell-tale sign of either suspension geometry misalignment or excessive wear from spirited driving. Verify the current tread depth across the full width of the rear tyres, inspect for inner-edge wear which would suggest a rear wheel alignment or camber issue, and confirm that replacements have been fitted since the test. The minor advisory regarding a twisted nearside rear brake hose should be checked by a technician, as an incorrectly routed hose can chafe against surrounding components over time and potentially fail under braking load. Given the age and mileage of this vehicle, it would also be prudent to verify the age of the 12V battery, inspect all coolant and brake fluid for time-related degradation regardless of mileage, and check for signs of fluid leaks from the engine and transmission. Finally, confirming a complete service history with documented cambelt or timing chain renewal, recent brake fluid and coolant changes, and any receipts addressing the items raised at MOT would provide welcome reassurance before purchase.