2007 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · RO57 WDG

The vehicle is currently roadworthy based on the most recent MOT test on 2023-01-14, which showed a pass despite minor issues including worn rear brake discs and a non-functioning rear registration plate lamp. However, the maintenance trend over the past three years indicates a worsening pattern, particularly in suspension and braking systems, with recurring faults reappearing or escalating—most notably the front drag link end ball joint play and oil leakage persisting across multiple tests. The failure in 2021 due to a seriously weakened nearside rear brake disc and excessive exhaust smoke from a turbocharged engine suggests underlying mechanical stress that may not have been fully addressed. With 275,404 miles recorded at just under 19 years of age, the average annual mileage of approximately 14,500 miles is high for this model, indicating consistent use rather than long-term storage. This level of usage accelerates wear on critical components such as brakes, suspension bushings, and drivetrain elements. Notably, the gap between the 2021-11-29 and 2021-12-04 tests was only six days, suggesting a retest after immediate repair work—likely related to the failed tyre and brake disc issues. The subsequent 2023 test at 275,404 miles confirms the vehicle has remained in service without significant downtime, but the repeated presence of similar faults raises concerns about long-term reliability. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough in-person inspection focusing on the front suspension system, especially the inner drag link end ball joints and upper control arms, where play and damaged dust covers were repeatedly flagged. The rear brake discs should be measured for thickness and checked for warping or cracking, given they were reported as worn in two consecutive tests. The oil leak, though described as not excessive, warrants scrutiny for potential engine or gearbox seal degradation. Additionally, the history of exhaust emissions exceeding turbocharged engine limits demands a live emission check and inspection of the turbocharger and EGR system. Structural integrity should also be verified, particularly around the rear wheel arches and sills, as high mileage combined with past corrosion-related issues could indicate hidden rust damage.