2016 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · RO16 BDE

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Audi A4 was conducted on 2026-02-12, resulting in a clean pass with a single advisory related to the offside rear tyre showing signs of cracking or perishing in the tread. Despite this advisory, the overall maintenance trend over the past four years appears to be stable, with no repeated failures or persistent issues beyond the tyre-related advisories. The vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2023, and the previous failure in 2024 was a single major fault—an engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) that required addressing—suggesting that while the engine may have had a specific issue at that time, it has since been resolved. The absence of further engine-related failures or structural defects indicates that the vehicle has maintained a reasonable level of roadworthiness, though the tyre advisories warrant closer attention to prevent further wear or safety concerns. The recorded mileage of 97,612 miles for a ten-year-old vehicle represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,761 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for this age group. This mileage does not suggest excessive wear from high annual mileage, but it also does not indicate minimal usage either. The lack of significant mileage gaps could imply either consistent driving habits or periods of stationary use, which can sometimes lead to secondary issues such as corrosion from standing or fluid degradation over time. However, the mileage alone does not definitively indicate wear beyond what is expected from normal use, so a thorough inspection is essential to confirm the vehicle’s mechanical condition. Given the recent MOT advisories, particularly those concerning the tyres, the prospective buyer should conduct a detailed inspection of the offside rear tyre for any signs of further cracking, delamination, or exposed cords, which could compromise traction and handling. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the rear tyre area, such as a grinding or scraping sound when cornering or braking, which may indicate misalignment or uneven wear. Additionally, check for any visible bulges, tread separation, or excessive vibration that could suggest internal tyre damage. The nearside front and rear tyres showing wear close to the legal limit also warrant attention; inspect the tread depth and look for signs of uneven wear patterns, which could imply misalignment or suspension issues. If the tyre wear is uneven, this may lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased risk of hydroplaning. For the engine-related advisory from the 2024 MOT, the buyer should verify that the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) has been fully resolved by confirming the engine’s performance, fuel efficiency, and absence of any persistent warning lights. On a test drive, monitor for symptoms such as rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, or a loss of power, which could indicate ongoing engine or emissions-related problems. If the MIL was due to a catalytic converter or oxygen sensor issue, further diagnostics may be needed to ensure the system is functioning correctly. Beyond the MOT findings, the buyer should also inspect the vehicle for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and undercarriage, as prolonged periods of inactivity can accelerate rust formation. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the 12V battery is holding a charge, as a weak battery can lead to poor starting performance and electrical gremlins. Finally, consider verifying the service history for time-based maintenance, such as oil changes, brake fluid flushes, and suspension inspections, as these are critical for a vehicle of this age and mileage.