2021 Audi A4 S LN BLK ED 35 Tfsi Mhev SA 2.0L Petrol · RO21 VBA

A clean pass at the most recent test on 15 April 2026 continues a pattern of straightforward roadworthiness for this 2021 Audi A4 Black Edition 35 TFSI, but the supporting advisories tell a more nuanced story centred on the contact patch and brake hardware. Across the three recorded MOTs the vehicle has never failed, yet several wear-related items have appeared repeatedly or for the first time at this latest visit. The 2024 test noted front brake disc wear, the 2025 test flagged rear inner brake pads wearing thin alongside tyres worn to the legal limit on both fronts, and the 2026 test now records nearside wall cuts on a front and rear tyre plus a deteriorated front number plate. This trajectory suggests that consumable braking and rubber components are now demanding closer attention rather than indicating any immediate structural concern, and the pattern is consistent with a car being used regularly on typical mixed road surfaces. With 53,923 miles accumulated over five years the vehicle is running at roughly 10,785 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the expected band for a premium saloon of this age. There are no multi-year testing gaps and the mileage progression between tests is steady, so there is no evidence of long stationary periods that would typically bring concerns around seized brakes, perished coolant hoses, or 12V battery degradation. The moderate annual usage should mean the mild hybrid 48V system, starter-generator, and conventional 12V battery have remained in regular exercise. Equally, the consistent accumulation points to genuine road use rather than clocked or inconsistent records, which is reassuring for a buyer assessing the powertrain. For a prospective buyer the priority areas to physically examine mirror the advisories already raised. On a test drive, listen for any graunching or scraping from the front brakes under light pedal application as the discs approach their second skim, and feel for any pulse through the pedal under firm braking which would indicate disc runout or hot spots following pad renewal. Inspect the inner faces of the rear pads through the wheel spokes if possible to confirm remaining material, as the 2025 advisory noted thinning rear inner pads. The front discs should be measured for thickness against the stamped minimum and checked for a pronounced lip on the outer edge. Pay particular attention to the nearside front and rear tyres for any sidewall bulges or fresh cuts, as the latest advisory notes existing damage that is currently within legal depth but warrants replacement if the tyres are approaching three to four years of age regardless of tread. Suspension and steering refinement is worth probing carefully given the recurring brake wear pattern, as sticking calipers or a binding handbrake mechanism can impose uneven loading. Listen for clonks or knocks from the front MacPherson struts and lower control arms over speed humps and uneven B-road surfaces, and check for any uneven tyre wear across the axle that might point to worn bushes or weakened coil springs. The 35 TFSI engine should be started from cold if possible to confirm smooth idle and prompt stop-start engagement, while a steady road speed run should reveal any vibration through the steering or floor that could indicate balancing issues, driveshaft wear, or wheel bearing noise. Finally, inspect the underside visually for any oil misting around the engine and gearbox seams, and verify that the mild hybrid system functions correctly with smooth engine restart when coming off the throttle.