2018 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · S22 KAS

The vehicle achieved a PASS at its most recent MOT on 2 April 2026, although four advisories were issued during this test, which represents a notable departure from the largely clean history observed in earlier years. The maintenance trend over the full five-test MOT history shows a stable pattern, with passes recorded annually from 2021 through 2026 and only minor or single advisories noted in 2022 and 2024. However, the clustering of four advisories at the most recent test, covering front suspension componentry, tyre condition, and coil spring mounting corrosion, suggests that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, age-related wear is beginning to manifest more visibly. Prospective buyers should treat this as an early indicator that certain consumable and suspension components are entering the latter stages of their service life and warrant closer inspection. With 56,117 recorded miles over an eight-year service life, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,015 miles per year, which is broadly typical for its age and not indicative of excessive use or extended periods of standing. There are no significant gaps in annual MOT testing, suggesting consistent usage and regular exposure to road conditions rather than long periods of inactivity that could otherwise mask issues such as brake disc corrosion, seized calipers, or deterioration of underbody components. The steady annual mileage accumulation supports a reasonable expectation that the major mechanical systems, including the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, have experienced regular working cycles rather than prolonged static storage. This pattern is generally favourable from a mechanical standpoint, as it tends to reduce the likelihood of calendar-based degradation issues such as perished rubber, oxidised brake components, or stale fluids. However, the advisories recorded at the 2026 test do require careful attention from a prospective buyer. The offside front suspension arm pin or bush wear is a common finding on vehicles of this age and mileage, and on a test drive the buyer should listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension, particularly when traversing speed bumps, uneven surfaces, or during sharp direction changes. This wear is progressive and will eventually necessitate replacement of the affected bush or arm to restore precise wheel geometry and prevent uneven tyre wear. The nearside front tyre advisory, indicating wear close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, suggests potential tracking misalignment, possibly stemming from the suspension wear noted, and replacement tyres should be fitted regardless of remaining tread depth to ensure even contact with the road surface. Uneven inner or outer edge wear on any tyre is a strong indicator of geometry deviation and should be addressed through four-wheel alignment following any suspension rectification. The coil spring mounting advisories on both rear corners, while not categorised as serious weakening, point to the early stages of structural corrosion at a load-bearing location. This is consistent with the age of the vehicle and exposure to winter road conditions, but it warrants close physical inspection to confirm that corrosion has not progressed beyond surface appearance, especially around the spring seats and surrounding bodywork. The buyer should also verify the condition and age of the 12V battery, as units beyond five years of service often exhibit reduced cranking performance, particularly in colder weather. Brake discs should be examined for any lipping or corrosion, and a thorough check of all fluid services, including brake fluid, coolant, and if applicable automatic transmission fluid, should be undertaken in line with manufacturer schedules, as time-based fluid degradation can compromise system performance irrespective of the relatively modest mileage recorded. Finally, requesting evidence of recent servicing, including cambelt replacement history where applicable, and verifying that the instrument cluster readings are consistent with the documented MOT records will provide additional confidence in the vehicle's ongoing maintenance integrity.