2006 Audi A4 2.0L Petrol · RJ56 ACU

A pattern of recurring mechanical issues and safety-critical failures defines this vehicle's recent MOT history, despite a passing result on 28 November 2025. The record shows a tendency towards component degradation, specifically regarding lighting, suspension, and safety systems. The failure on 27 November 2025 is particularly noteworthy as it involved a major defect with the supplementary restraint system warning lamp, indicating a fault within the airbag or seatbelt pretensioner circuit, alongside a missing obligatory mirror and an inoperative registration plate lamp. While the most recent test recorded no defects, the preceding years have seen consistent advisories for tyre deterioration, coolant leaks, and brake fluctuations, suggesting a history of intermittent component wear. The vehicle has covered 129,684 miles over its approximately 20-year lifespan, which equates to an average annual usage of roughly 6,484 miles. This represents a relatively low annual mileage for a vehicle of this age. Mechanically, this usage pattern can mean that while the drivetrain may have seen less total wear than a high-mileage equivalent, components such as rubber bushes, seals, and tyres are more susceptible to age-related perishing and degradation rather than purely mileage-based wear. The presence of advisories for cracking and perishing tyres in 2023 and 2024 supports this assessment of age-related material fatigue. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the various fluid-related advisories recorded, including the coolant leak in 2023 and the oil leak noted in late 2025. During a test drive, it is essential to monitor for any visible signs of weeping from the engine or cooling system components and to listen for any changes in engine temperature or unusual smells. The history of brake fluctuations in 2023 warrants a thorough check of the braking system; look for any pedal judder or vibration when applying the brakes at various speeds, which could indicate warped discs or sticking calipers. Suspension and steering integrity must also be verified, given the previous major failure regarding excessive play in the nearside front track rod end and the advisory for a corroded offside rear coil spring. On the road, listen for any knocks, clunks, or knocks coming from the underside when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps. Additionally, the failure regarding the supplementary restraint system warning lamp necessitates confirmation that the airbag system is fully functional and that no warning lights remain illuminated on the dashboard, as this is a significant safety concern.