2009 Audi A4 2.0L Petrol · OY09 DDF

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Audi A4, conducted on 2026-04-07, resulted in a passing grade, though it included two advisories that warrant careful consideration. The front suspension arm pin or bush wear, noted as "worn but not resulting in excessive movement," suggests a developing issue that has not yet compromised roadworthiness but indicates ongoing wear that could escalate with continued use. This is not a new problem, as it was also flagged in prior tests, indicating a trend rather than a sudden failure. The near-side front tyre wear close to the legal limit—specifically worn on the edge—is a recurring advisory, reflecting consistent underinflation or excessive cornering forces, which may have contributed to uneven tyre degradation. While the vehicle remains roadworthy, these advisories highlight areas where maintenance or adjustments may be prudent to prevent future failures or reduced tyre lifespan. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 137,258 miles over approximately 17 years represents an average annual usage of around 8,074 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. The mileage accumulation appears steady, with no dramatic spikes or prolonged periods of low usage that might suggest excessive idling or poor maintenance practices. However, the presence of a CV joint boot deterioration in 2022 and the major suspension arm failures in 2021 suggest that the drivetrain and suspension components have experienced significant wear, particularly in high-stress areas. The 2021 failure of the front upper suspension arms—both near-side and off-side—demonstrates a critical failure point that could recur if not addressed, underscoring the importance of addressing suspension wear promptly to avoid further mechanical stress or alignment issues. For the prospective buyer, the most critical immediate checks should focus on the suspension system and tyre condition. Given the advisories on front suspension arm wear and tyre edge wear, inspect the front suspension for any signs of binding, excessive play, or unusual clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate further bush or pin deterioration. Listen for a persistent grinding or rattling in the front suspension area, particularly when the vehicle is stationary or moving at low speeds, as this could signal impending failure of the suspension arms. Additionally, verify that the tyres are properly inflated and check for any signs of uneven wear patterns beyond the edge, which may suggest alignment or camber issues. If the suspension arms are confirmed to be worn beyond the advisory threshold, replacement is strongly recommended to prevent potential rollover or loss of control. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, underbody, and door seals, as the 2021 door opening failure suggests potential structural or sealing issues that may have worsened with time. Check the brake system for any signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing corrosion can cause uneven braking performance or binding. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which is more likely with age even at moderate mileage, and ensure the 12V battery is in good condition, as older vehicles may struggle with cold starts or electrical accessories. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, verify that all fluids—brake, coolant, and transmission—are at the correct levels and not showing signs of degradation, such as darkening or sludge buildup. Schedule a service check within the next 6 months to address the suspension advisories and ensure the CV joint boot is fully repaired, as these are critical components that require proactive maintenance to prevent costly failures.