2016 Audi A4 2.0L Petrol · RF66 OFU

The latest DVSA MOT test on the 2016 Audi A4 was conducted on 2026-08-11 and resulted in a passing grade, though it included an advisory regarding the front upper suspension arm bushes on both sides, indicating moderate wear. This advisory suggests that the suspension bushes are nearing the end of their service life, which typically spans around 60,000 to 100,000 miles depending on driving conditions and load. The trend in the MOT history over the past six years is relatively stable, with only one failure recorded in 2021—this was unrelated to the current advisory and concerned tyre tread depth and structural integrity, which was rectified. The absence of repeated failures or major issues since then indicates that the vehicle has generally maintained roadworthiness, though the suspension advisory warrants closer attention to prevent increased road noise or reduced handling performance as the bushes degrade further. The recorded mileage of 85,169 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,517 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. While lower mileage might suggest less wear on consumables like brakes, fluids, and seals, the consistent annual mileage indicates a steady but not particularly high demand on the drivetrain and suspension components. There are no evident gaps in usage that could imply prolonged idleness leading to corrosion or fluid degradation, though the presence of the suspension advisory suggests that the vehicle has been driven regularly enough to accelerate wear on certain components. The absence of higher mileage spikes could mean the owner has maintained a disciplined driving routine, but the wear patterns still necessitate proactive maintenance to avoid premature component failure. For prospective buyers, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the suspension system and braking components. The front suspension bushes should be checked for excessive play or rattling when the vehicle is driven over bumps, as this could indicate imminent failure leading to suspension binding or uneven tyre wear. Listen for a persistent clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension during cornering or over rough roads, which may signal bush wear or potential coil spring failure. The front brake pads and discs show recurring advisories of thin wear and pitting, suggesting that the braking system is approaching the end of its serviceable life. During a test drive, pay close attention to brake pedal firmness, heat signatures on the discs, and any shuddering or pulsation when applying the brakes, which could indicate warped discs or soft brake pads. Replace the pads and discs if they are below the legal minimum thickness or show signs of excessive wear, as this will improve braking performance and safety. Additionally, the tyre history reveals significant wear issues, particularly on the rear tyres, where tread depth has been below legal limits and cords have been exposed at multiple MOT tests. This indicates that the tyres have been underinflated, overused, or subjected to excessive side loading, which can lead to uneven wear patterns and premature tyre failure. Inspect the tyres for signs of cracking or perishing around the sidewall, which is more likely to occur with age than mileage, especially given the vehicle’s age. Check the tyre pressure and ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, as underinflation exacerbates wear and reduces fuel efficiency. The exposed cords on the rear tyres are a critical safety concern and necessitate immediate replacement, as they compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of sudden blowouts. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and usage, consider a comprehensive fluid check, including the engine oil, differential fluid, and brake fluid, to ensure they are fresh and free from contamination. Fluid degradation over time can lead to increased wear on seals, bearings, and other components, so top-ups or full replacements may be advisable if the vehicle has been in use for several years without servicing.