2009 Audi A4 2.7L Diesel · RO09 JCV

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Audi A4 occurred on 2023-10-18, resulting in a clean pass with only advisories present. While the vehicle has not been retested since, the historical MOT record reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than a consistent improvement. The 2021-06-16 test showed a dangerous failure for tyre tread depth, followed by a major fracture in the rear coil spring in 2020-03-27, and a further major failure in the same spring in 2022-07-01. Suspension-related advisories, including worn upper arm bushes and reduced damping in rear shock absorbers, persist across multiple tests, indicating ongoing wear beyond the legal threshold. These recurring defects suggest a history of either substandard maintenance or inherent component fatigue, particularly in the suspension and braking systems, which may warrant closer scrutiny during inspection. The recorded mileage of 160,458 miles for a 17-year-old vehicle represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,439 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the absence of service records or a clear pattern of regular maintenance suggests potential neglect in consumable replacements and fluid servicing. The significant gaps between MOT tests—particularly the 2020 test being the first failure until 2021—could imply periods of prolonged inactivity, which may have exacerbated wear from standing, such as corrosion in the exhaust system or brake components. Additionally, the high mileage alone does not guarantee excessive wear; however, the combination of the fractured coil springs and worn suspension bushes suggests that the vehicle has undergone stress cycles that could accelerate further deterioration if not addressed promptly. Given the MOT history, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension and braking systems. Focus on the front and rear suspension for signs of further wear in the upper arm bushes, lower control arms, or coil springs, which may exhibit cracks, elongation, or binding. Listen for abnormal clunking or rattling during cornering or over bumps, as these could indicate loose suspension components or damaged bushes. The rear coil springs, in particular, have a history of failure, so any signs of bulging, sagging, or excessive play in the suspension linkage should be noted. During the test drive, monitor for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension misalignment, and check for brake shudder or pulsation, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Additionally, inspect the exhaust system for further corrosion, particularly around the centre exhaust sleeve, as this has been flagged as weak and prone to failure. The buyer should also verify the condition of the braking system, paying close attention to the brake discs, pads, and hoses. The presence of thin brake pads and worn hoses in prior MOTs indicates that the braking components may require replacement soon. Check for corrosion on the brake discs, especially on the near-side, where standing corrosion is more likely to occur. Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for contamination or low levels, as fluid degradation over time can lead to brake failure. The vehicle’s tyre condition, particularly the front tyres, should be scrutinised for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with adequate tread depth, especially in older vehicles. Finally, given the age and mileage, the 12V battery should be tested for capacity, as older batteries may struggle to maintain charge, particularly in prolonged periods of inactivity. Ensure that all fluids—oil, coolant, and brake fluid—are topped up and free from contamination, as time-based degradation can compromise performance. If possible, obtain a service history or maintenance log to confirm that critical intervals for fluid changes and component replacements have been adhered to.