2012 Audi A6 3.0L Petrol · OY12 OYH

The most recent MOT, carried out on 14 November 2025, was passed but recorded an advisory that the near‑side front service brake is binding, though not to a degree that breaches the limits. Over the last four years the vehicle has alternated between passes with advisories and a single failure for headlamp aim, which was rectified before the next test. The pattern shows a generally stable maintenance record, with the majority of items being advisory rather than outright failures, indicating that the car has been kept roadworthy but does have a few wear points that merit close monitoring. At 98 351 miles for a 2012 model the average annual mileage works out at just over 7 000 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope. There are no obvious large gaps in the recorded mileage that would suggest long periods of inactivity, so the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is likely to be proportional to the distance travelled rather than to age alone. The relatively modest annual mileage means that major drivetrain components – for example the timing chain, gearbox and differential – are less likely to be near the end of their service lives, but the cumulative distance does imply that items subject to wear, especially bushings, brake pads and tyre tread, should be inspected for progressive deterioration. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front lower suspension arm pins or bushes and the rear suspension bushes that have been flagged as worn. On a test drive listen for clunking or knocking when navigating bumps or cornering, and check for any looseness in the wheel bearings by applying firm pressure to the wheel rims. The near‑side front brake binding advisory suggests that the caliper piston or sliding pins may be sticking; feel for a slight pull to the left when applying the brakes and watch for uneven pad wear. The inner‑edge tyre wear noted on both front tyres and the off‑side front tyre indicates possible mis‑alignment, worn or damaged front camber/caster bushes, or an aggressive driving style; a professional wheel‑alignment check is advisable and the tyres should be examined for sufficient tread depth and uniformity, with replacement considered if the inner shoulder is approaching the legal limit. Finally, verify that the headlamp aim has been corrected, as an excessive upward aim can blind oncoming traffic and may be a sign of mounting issues. Given the vehicle’s age of fourteen years, time‑related deterioration should also be inspected. Examine the 12‑volt battery for signs of sulfation, check the electrolyte level if it is a conventional lead‑acid type, and confirm that it holds a charge above 12.4 V at rest. Look for rubber cracking or perishing on the tyre sidewalls, especially if the car has spent periods stationary, and assess the condition of the exhaust system for corrosion or rust holes. Verify that the service book contains stamps for regular oil, filter and coolant changes, and consider a fresh change of engine oil, brake fluid and coolant if the last recorded service exceeds twelve months, as fluids degrade with time even when the vehicle is not heavily used. A thorough visual inspection of the chassis for rust, particularly around the wheel arches and undercarriage, will help ensure structural integrity before committing to purchase.