2016 Audi TT 2.0L Diesel · RF66 OFT

The most recent MOT test on 2026-04-10 confirmed the vehicle as roadworthy, though it retained several persistent advisories that reflect ongoing wear and potential long-term concerns. The trend in the MOT history is mixed—while most tests have passed without major failures, the recurring advisories on brake system degradation, particularly the rear brake discs and pads, suggest a pattern of wear that has persisted over several years. The 2024-03-19 failure, which included major issues with the supplementary restraint system and front brake imbalance, indicates that the vehicle has faced significant mechanical challenges at certain intervals, though it has since passed subsequent tests. These inconsistencies suggest that while the car is currently compliant, its maintenance history warrants careful scrutiny, particularly regarding the brake system and potential underlying faults in the airbag or braking components. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 124,504 miles at the time of this assessment represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 12,450 miles per year, which is notably elevated for a ten-year-old car. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on critical components like brakes, suspension, and drivetrain elements, as evidenced by the repeated advisories on brake discs and pads. The absence of significant mileage gaps—particularly in the last six years—implies sustained, heavy use, which may have contributed to the observed corrosion on brake discs and the gradual thinning of brake pads. Additionally, high mileage can exacerbate issues such as suspension wear, fluid degradation, and potential exhaust or emissions system strain, all of which should be factored into the buyer’s assessment. Given the recurring advisories on brake system components, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking assembly, focusing on the rear brakes first. Visually inspect the rear brake discs for further pitting, scoring, or signs of warping, and listen for any unusual noises during braking, such as grinding or squeaking, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact or worn pads. The offside rear shock absorbers with light misting suggest potential softening or internal failure, which may lead to reduced damping performance; test drive the vehicle on varied surfaces to observe if the suspension exhibits excessive body roll, clunking noises, or uneven ride quality. If the rear brake binding is confirmed, the buyer should also check for uneven brake pad wear or potential caliper binding, as this could lead to uneven stopping performance or premature disc damage. For the buyer’s practical inspection, given the vehicle’s age and high mileage, attention should be paid to several key areas. First, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, particularly around the edges where the tread is low—this is common in older vehicles and can compromise tyre integrity under stress. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on terminals, poor connections, or reduced voltage output, as standing vehicles or high mileage can accelerate battery degradation. Inspect the fluid levels in the engine, differential, and transmission, ensuring they are topped up and free from contaminants; fluid degradation over time can lead to premature component failure. Finally, verify the service history for time-based maintenance, such as oil changes, brake fluid flushes, and suspension component replacements, as these are critical for long-term reliability. If the service book is incomplete, consider arranging a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection to address any hidden issues before purchase.