2013 Audi A6 3.0L Diesel · S55 PAO

The 2013 Audi A6’s most recent MOT test on 2026-01-13 was passed with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround from its previous failures and advisories. While the vehicle’s MOT history shows a mix of passing and failing tests over the past five years, the trend since 2024 has been notably stable, with only minor issues such as a windscreen damage advisory in 2023. The earlier failures—particularly the 2022 offside front suspension arm pin or bush wear and the 2021 exposed tyre cords—highlight areas where the vehicle’s structural integrity and tyre condition have been critical points of concern. These recurring advisories suggest that while the car may have been maintained adequately in some respects, certain mechanical components, particularly the suspension and tyres, have experienced wear that warrants closer attention. The recorded mileage of 98,994 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 13 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,615 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this make and model. Such mileage accumulation is typical for a car that has been driven regularly but not excessively, though the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the two-year interval between 2021 and 2023—could indicate periods of prolonged inactivity, which may have contributed to minor issues like standing corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the lack of unusually high mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle’s wear profile is not severely accelerated, but the suspension and tyre advisories from previous MOTs point to components that have been subjected to consistent stress over time. This could lead to progressive wear in the suspension bushings, leading to clunking noises during cornering or uneven ride quality, or further tyre degradation if not addressed promptly. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent concerns stem from the exposed tyre cords and the tyre wear advisories, which indicate that the offside front tyre is critically worn and at risk of sudden failure. On a test drive, listen for any unusual tyre noise or vibration, and visually inspect the tread depth and tyre condition for signs of uneven wear or cord visibility. Replace the offside front tyre immediately to prevent a dangerous road hazard. Regarding the suspension advisories from 2022, inspect the offside front lower suspension arm for excessive play or binding when opening the door from the outside, as this could suggest worn bushings or a failing pin. Listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces, and check for uneven suspension travel or excessive bounce. If the suspension components are confirmed worn, consider replacing the affected arm and bushings to restore proper alignment and ride comfort. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s age-appropriate components. Given the vehicle’s age and the potential for prolonged inactivity, check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can indicate reduced rubber integrity and potential blowout risk. Inspect the 12V battery for corrosion on terminals and ensure it holds a charge when tested, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain. Examine the brake system for signs of corrosion or binding calipers, particularly on the offside front side where previous MOTs noted issues. Verify that the brake discs are smooth and free from warping or excessive glazing, and listen for any grinding or squeaking noises during braking. Additionally, since the vehicle’s last MOT was in 2024, check the service records for any time-based fluid servicing, such as the coolant, brake fluid, and differential oil, which should have been replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 5 years, whichever comes first. Finally, ensure the exhaust system is free from leaks or excessive rust, as standing vehicles can accelerate corrosion in this area.