2015 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · RF65 RVM

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Audi A4 occurred on 2025-12-15, resulting in a passing grade despite persistent advisories related to worn suspension arm bushes on both front upper and lower arms bilaterally, and a nearside rear tyre approaching the legal limit with edge wear. While the vehicle has passed subsequent MOTs since, the recurring failure of the engine MIL indicator during testing—most notably in 2024-12-11 and 2025-12-15—suggests a concerning underlying issue with the engine control system or related sensors that warrants immediate attention. The progression of advisories, particularly the suspension and tyre defects, indicates a pattern of wear that, while not yet critical, demands proactive servicing to prevent escalation into major failures. The presence of a fractured coil spring in 2024-12-11 underscores the need for a thorough inspection of the suspension system, as such failures can lead to uneven ride quality, alignment issues, and potential structural stress on other components. The recorded mileage of 111,097 miles for a 11-year-old vehicle represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 10,100 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this age and model. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit details on periods of inactivity or rapid mileage accumulation, which could have implications for wear patterns. Suspension components, in particular, are prone to accelerated deterioration when a vehicle stands idle for extended periods, leading to dry friction in bushes and potential binding. The engine MIL failures suggest either prolonged operation under suboptimal conditions or a developing fault that may have been exacerbated by infrequent servicing. For a vehicle of this age, the wear on brake pads and discs, along with the edge wear on the nearside rear tyre, indicates regular use but also highlights the need for timely replacement of consumables to avoid compromising braking performance and safety. Given the recurring advisories and the history of engine-related failures, the prospective buyer should prioritise a comprehensive mechanical inspection before purchase. Focus on the suspension system, particularly the front upper and lower arms, as the worn bushes could lead to clunking noises during cornering or road travel, uneven tyre wear, and potential misalignment. Listen for any unusual suspension clunks or rattles when driving over bumps, and check for excessive play in the steering wheel that may indicate loose suspension components. The fractured coil spring in 2024-12-11 suggests that the rear suspension may require further scrutiny, including inspection of the strut mounts and shock absorbers for signs of failure or leakage. Additionally, the engine MIL indicator must be addressed promptly, as the cause could range from a faulty oxygen sensor to a more serious issue with the fuel injection system or ignition timing. A professional diagnostic test should identify the exact fault and confirm whether it is a repairable minor issue or a more extensive problem requiring engine overhaul or replacement. For the buyer, a thorough physical inspection should also include checking the brake system for signs of corrosion or binding calipers, particularly after prolonged periods of standing, which can cause brake discs to seize. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, which is more likely in a 11-year-old vehicle due to exposure to UV light and environmental conditions. Verify the condition of the front windscreen washer reservoir and ensure the washer fluid is adequate, as the 2023-12-14 MOT failure highlighted insufficient washer liquid. Lastly, consider testing the 12V battery health, as older vehicles may suffer from reduced cranking power or electrical gremlins due to age-related degradation. If the vehicle has been driven sparingly or stood for long periods, check for any standing corrosion on the chassis or undercarriage, as well as fluid leaks from the exhaust system or underbody components. Ensure that all service records are up to date, particularly for fluid changes—oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—since these should have been replaced in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations, which for this model would typically be every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or annually.