2014 Audi A8 3.0L Diesel · P111 AAV

The defining mechanical narrative of this 2014 Audi A8 is one of consistently passing roadworthiness with a recurring, narrow pattern of advisories focused almost exclusively on rear tyre wear. Across the five recorded MOT tests from 2022 through 2026, the vehicle has not failed a single inspection, yet the inner edges of the rear tyres have been flagged on three separate occasions in 2023, 2025, and to a lesser extent as recently as 2026 when undertrays were also noted as obscuring certain components. The most recent test on 15 June 2026 resulted in a pass with no significant defects recorded, maintaining a stable trajectory rather than an improving or worsening one. What stands out is the consistency of this pattern: clean tests tend to alternate with tyre-edge advisories, suggesting an underlying chassis or suspension geometry characteristic rather than a one-off incident. At 141,289 miles over roughly twelve years, this A8 has covered approximately 11,774 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the expected band for a vehicle of its age and class. There are no notable gaps in the MOT testing history and no sudden jumps in recorded mileage between tests, with the annual accumulation progressing steadily from the 2022 test through to the present. Mechanically, this consistent usage profile points to regular operation rather than long periods of standing, which is favourable for avoiding issues such as seized brake calipers, perished coolant hoses, and dried-out driveline seals. However, the higher mileage also places greater demand on consumables and suspension components, and at this odometer reading items such as air suspension struts, control arm bushes, anti-roll bar links, and electronic damper actuators will have accumulated substantial wear cycles. Given the recurring advisory for rear inner-tyre edge wear, a prospective buyer should pay close attention to the rear suspension geometry during a physical inspection. Inner-edge wear on both rear tyres across multiple test cycles typically points to excessive negative camber at the rear axle, which on the Audi A8 can stem from worn upper and lower control arm bushes, sagging coil springs or air springs, or fatigued trailing arm bushings. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear over uneven surfaces, particularly when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and feel for any vagueness or wander in the steering, as the front axle will often compensate for rear instability. Inspect the inner shoulders of all four tyres with a tread depth gauge rather than relying solely on visual judgement, and measure both the inside and outside shoulder wear to confirm whether the pattern is symmetrical across the axle. Beyond the suspension, the undertray advisory from the most recent test warrants practical attention, as fitted undertrays prevent a visual inspection of the engine, subframe, and exhaust components from below. Request that they be removed prior to inspection, or budget for their removal if negotiating, so that the subframe mounting points, brake pipes, and flexible brake hoses can be examined for corrosion and perishing, both of which are common concerns on high-mileage A8s of this generation. With the vehicle off, turn the steering from lock to lock and listen for any groaning or whining from the power steering rack, as rack failures are not uncommon at this mileage. Finally, because the MOT history cannot establish service or repair work carried out between tests, any available supporting documentation for recent suspension, braking, or tyre work should be reviewed to confirm whether the recurring rear tyre wear has been actively addressed rather than simply masked by replacement tyres at each test.