2009 Audi A6 2.0L Diesel · RV09 RRY

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 24 August 2026, following a failure on 20 August 2026. This recent failure was due to major defects involving the nearside front track rod end ball joint and the offside front lower suspension arm ball joints. While the vehicle has maintained a clean MOT record for several years, the recent requirement for significant steering and suspension repairs indicates a shift toward more intensive maintenance requirements. The maintenance trend should be viewed as currently entering a phase of increased wear, where components such as ball joints and steering linkages are reaching the end of their functional lifespan. With 145,980 miles recorded, the vehicle has covered an average of approximately 8,587 miles per year. This is a typical usage profile for a 17-year-old vehicle, suggesting it has been used regularly without the extreme wear associated with very high annual mileage. This consistent usage is generally preferable to long periods of inactivity, which can cause seals to perish and fluids to degrade. However, at this mileage, you must be mindful that many high-wear components across the drivetrain and chassis are likely approaching the end of their service life, necessitating a very thorough mechanical inspection. During your test drive, you should pay close attention to the steering and front-end stability. Listen for any knocking, clunking, or rhythmic thudding when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these are classic symptoms of worn suspension bushes or ball joints. The steering should feel precise and should not wander or pull to one side. Given the 2018 advisories regarding uneven tyre wear on the inner and outer shoulders, you must inspect the current tyres for any signs of irregular wear patterns. If the tyres are wearing unevenly, it indicates that the suspension geometry or wheel alignment is incorrect, which can lead to premature tyre replacement and poor handling. Beyond the recent mechanical failures, you should conduct a physical inspection for age-related degradation. Check the tyre sidewalls for any signs of cracking or perishing, which can occur even if the tread depth is sufficient. Inspect the brake discs for excessive corrosion or scoring and ensure that the calipers are not binding, which can cause overheating and uneven braking performance. It is also essential to verify the service history for evidence of scheduled fluid changes, particularly brake fluid and engine coolant, as these degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, check for any signs of fluid leaks from the engine or gearbox and inspect the condition of the battery to ensure it remains capable of supporting the vehicle's electrical demands.