2009 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · RO09 VLK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 7 January 2025, was passed but recorded two advisories – a near‑side front service‑brake binding that is not excessive and a cut on the near‑side front tyre that does not yet breach the ply. Earlier in the same week the vehicle failed because of the same brake and tyre issues, a defective rear reflector and a fractured off‑side rear coil spring, while a 2023 failure cited an inoperative engine MIL. The pattern shows a mix of recurring minor concerns and one serious suspension fault that has already been addressed, suggesting that the vehicle’s maintenance has been reactive rather than consistently proactive, with the most recent test indicating a modest improvement after the major spring defect was rectified. At 150,418 miles for a 2009 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 8,800 mi, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a seventeen‑year‑old car. There are no obvious large gaps in the recorded mileage that would imply long periods of storage, but the relatively modest yearly total does indicate the car has not been subjected to high‑stress, high‑kilometre operation. Consequently, wear on high‑speed components such as the clutch, timing chain and transmission is likely to be moderate, yet age‑related degradation of rubber and metal parts remains a factor that should be examined closely. A prospective buyer should focus on the front brake assembly: feel for any pulling to the left, a spongy pedal or a faint grinding noise that could signal excessive pad wear or a sticking caliper. The tyre cut on the near‑side front wheel must be inspected for progression; any bulge, loss of sidewall integrity or tread‑wear irregularity would necessitate immediate replacement. The rear coil spring that failed in 2025 should be verified as correctly fitted and free of cracks; a bounce test on the rear axle and a check for any uneven ride height will reveal lingering suspension issues. The engine MIL fault recorded in 2023 warrants a diagnostic scan to confirm whether the fault has been cleared or if an underlying sensor, emission control component or wiring problem persists, as intermittent faults can affect fuel efficiency and emissions compliance. Finally, the advisory about the exhaust centre joint being insecure should be checked for rattles or exhaust leaks, especially under acceleration, to avoid potential carbon monoxide ingress or increased emissions. Given the car’s age, the buyer should also conduct age‑related checks irrespective of the MOT record. Examine all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, as time can degrade tyre compounds even on low‑mileage tyres. Inspect the 12 V battery for sulphation and verify its cranking voltage; a battery older than five years often needs replacement regardless of apparent charge. Look for corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches, undercarriage and suspension mounts, which can indicate water ingress from prolonged standing. Verify that service stamps cover major intervals – oil, filter, coolant and brake fluid changes – and consider a full fluid flush (coolant, brake, power‑steering) if the last service date is unclear, as fluids degrade with time and can lead to seal failure or reduced braking performance.