2016 Audi A4 1.4L Petrol · RF66 VFY

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2016 Audi A4 was conducted on 2026-06-18 and resulted in a pass, with the only recorded advisory pertaining to the front brake pads being close to the legal limit. This outcome follows a pattern of mostly clean MOT results over the past two years, with the most significant issues—particularly the windscreen wiper failures and tyre defects—having occurred in the vehicle’s earlier years. While the 2023 MOT did reveal a dangerous tyre tear on both rear tyres, which would have necessitated immediate replacement, the subsequent tests have shown no recurrence of these severe failures, suggesting a stable maintenance trend once the critical issues were addressed. However, the persistent advisories on brake pad wear and tyre condition warrant continued vigilance, as these could escalate into failures if not serviced promptly. The recorded mileage of 36,767 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 3,677 miles per year, which is significantly below the average for its class. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored rather than driven regularly. This usage profile raises concerns about potential issues stemming from standing conditions, such as corrosion on brake components, suspension elements, and the vehicle’s electrical systems, which can accelerate wear when components remain inactive for extended periods. Additionally, low mileage alone does not account for calendar-based degradation of fluids like brake fluid, coolant, and transmission oil, which degrade over time regardless of usage, and may require replacement even if the vehicle has not been driven extensively. For the prospective buyer, the most pressing concerns stem from the tyre defects and brake advisories. The 2022 and 2023 MOTs highlighted significant wear on the front tyres, including sidewall cracking and tread wear approaching the legal limit of 1.6mm, which should be addressed immediately to prevent blowouts or hydroplaning hazards. The dangerous tyre tears noted in 2023 on both rear tyres indicate a structural failure that must be resolved by replacing those tyres with new, high-quality compounds to restore roadworthiness. During a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise, check for uneven wear patterns, and inspect the tyre walls for bulges or cracks that could signal impending failure. As for the brakes, the advisory on front pads being close to the limit suggests they should be replaced before they wear down to the metal backing plate, which would compromise braking performance. Listen for a grinding or scraping sound when applying the brakes, and check for reduced pedal travel or sponginess, which could indicate worn pads or warped discs. Beyond the immediate defects, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and functional components. Given the low mileage and potential standing periods, inspect the suspension for signs of corrosion or stiffness, particularly around the coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, as these can deteriorate silently when unused. Check for binding calipers or brake discs that may have corroded from prolonged inactivity, which could lead to uneven braking or excessive heat buildup. Verify the condition of the 12V battery and starter motor, as low usage can lead to battery discharge or electrical system issues. Additionally, since the vehicle’s age and mileage do not justify high-mileage wear, focus on time-based maintenance such as replacing the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid every five years or as recommended in the service manual. Finally, ensure the windscreen wipers are fully functional and consider upgrading to motorised wipers if the current ones remain ineffective, as the 2014 and 2023 MOT failures highlight a recurring issue that may persist without intervention.