2015 Audi A6 2.0L Diesel · RF15 VLC

A repeated pattern of front suspension component wear is the dominant mechanical theme in this Audi A6's MOT record, spanning the 2021 and 2022 tests where both nearside and offside lower suspension arm bushes (described on the record as brake reaction arm bushes and curved arm bushes) were noted as worn, split or perished, though not yet at failure threshold. The 2022 test additionally recorded a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit and on edge, alongside a deteriorating front registration plate. Following those advisories, the 2023, 2024 and 2025 tests passed with no defects recorded at all, and only at the most recent test on 3 August 2026 did an advisory re-emerge, this time concerning damage to the nearside rear suspension component mounting area in the wheel arch. The advisory history therefore demonstrates a recurring cycle of front-end wear being flagged, apparently addressed, and then a separate area of concern appearing later, which is consistent with a high-mileage executive saloon approaching its eleventh year of service. The recorded mileage of 164,236 miles against an approximately eleven-year age equates to an annual accumulation of around 14,900 miles per year, which is high for the vehicle's age class and points to sustained, regular use rather than long periods of standing. The MOT tests have been conducted annually without any multi-year gaps in testing, and the mileage progression implied across the seven recorded tests between 2019 and 2026 is broadly steady rather than showing sudden spikes or dormant periods. Mechanically, this kind of consistent high annual mileage places greater cumulative demand on the braking system, the front suspension components that are already showing wear history, the drivetrain mounts, and the cooling and auxiliary systems, even where the visible MOT record shows no defects at present. The absence of recorded failures across the entire MOT history is noted, but it should be read alongside the mileage profile rather than in isolation. For a prospective buyer, the front suspension is the principal area to examine, given that both lower arm bushes were flagged as worn, split and perished in consecutive tests before apparently being replaced or tolerated. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and feel for any vagueness or delay in steering response that could indicate renewed bush wear or play in the lower arms. With the vehicle laden, apply the brakes firmly to check for pull to one side and any vibration through the pedal, as worn or binding components often surface under load. The tyres should be inspected closely for uneven shoulder wear, particularly on the nearside front where edge wear was previously recorded, as this can point to alignment geometry being affected by suspension component deterioration. The nearside rear suspension mounting area damage noted in the 2026 test warrants specific attention during a physical inspection. The area behind the nearside rear wheel arch should be checked for corrosion, cracking or distortion around the suspension turret or mounting points, as advisories in this region can progress quickly on vehicles of this age and mileage. The exhaust system, brake pipes and underbody should also be examined for corrosion given the high-mileage, year-round use profile, and the engine bay should be inspected for oil leaks from the cam chain area and coolant leaks from the water pump and thermostat housing, which are known wear points on the earlier A6 petrol and diesel units. A thorough pre-purchase inspection on a ramp is strongly advisable to verify the current condition of the suspension, the structural integrity of the mounting area flagged in 2026, and the general state of the braking and underbody components before committing to purchase.