2009 Audi A6 2.0L Diesel · ST09 LDV

The most recent DVSA examination on 29 February 2024 resulted in a pass, but four advisories were recorded, which collectively suggest the vehicle is being maintained to a roadworthy standard yet is exhibiting progressive wear that warrants close attention. A review of the recent test history shows a pattern of accumulation rather than active decline, with advisories relating to sub-frame and body corrosion appearing consistently from 2022 onwards, suspension arm bushes noted as worn in both 2023 and 2024, and braking irregularities recorded at successive tests. Two failures within the available history, one in March 2021 for an exhaust gas leak, significantly worn front brake discs, and a dangerous nearside front tyre tread depth, and another in March 2022 for an excessively binding nearside rear brake, were both subsequently rectified to achieve a pass at the next available attempt. The overall trend is therefore one of a vehicle that is broadly roadworthy but clearly accumulating age-related defects in key mechanical and structural areas, which any prospective buyer must weigh carefully. The recorded mileage of 105,170 miles against a 2009 registration equates to approximately 6,186 miles annually over the vehicle's lifespan, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and is neither indicative of excessive motorway use nor extended periods of standing. The MOT records reflect regular annual testing with relatively consistent annual mileages, suggesting the vehicle has been in continuous use rather than laid up for prolonged intervals. This usage pattern tends to keep mechanical components such as the braking system, suspension, and drivetrain in reasonable working order through regular exercise, though it also means that higher-mileage consumables and wear items such as bushes, brake discs, and exhaust components will have reached a stage where ongoing replacement should be anticipated. Given the recurring advisories on the front and rear suspension arm pins and bushes across the 2022, 2023, and 2024 tests, a prospective buyer should physically inspect the underside of the vehicle for any perished, cracked, or split rubber bushes, and on a test drive should listen carefully for clonks or knocks transmitted through the body over uneven surfaces, speed humps, or when turning at low speed, as these are classic indicators of worn suspension linkages approaching the point of requiring renewal. The consistent advisories for sub-frame and integral body structure corrosion on both sides should be treated seriously, particularly as the vehicle is now seventeen years old and likely to have been exposed to winter road salts; a thorough examination on a ramp or over an inspection pit is advisable to confirm that corrosion has not progressed beyond the cosmetic stage, paying particular attention to jacking points, mounting areas, and suspension attachment points where structural integrity is critical. The advisories regarding fluctuating front brake performance and rear brake binding recorded in 2023, combined with the earlier 2022 failure for an excessively binding nearside rear brake and the 2021 failure for significantly worn front brake discs, indicate a braking system that will likely require comprehensive attention in the near term. A test drive should focus on confirming smooth and even brake pedal feel without any pulling to either side, shudder through the steering wheel under braking, or excessive pedal travel, and a physical check of the rear calipers for seized or sticking pistons is recommended. Beyond the recorded defects, the age of the vehicle demands consideration of items that MOT testing does not fully cover, including the condition of the timing belt or chain service interval if applicable, the age and state of the 12 volt battery which typically degrades after five to seven years, the freshness of engine coolant and brake fluid which suffer calendar-based degradation regardless of mileage, and a thorough inspection of the tyres for age-related sidewall perishing and cracking even where tread depth remains adequate, given the vehicle's 2009 build date. Finally, the persistent tyre pressure monitoring system warning noted in 2024 should be investigated to determine whether it relates to a faulty sensor or underlying pressure maintenance issues, and a compression test or diagnostic scan would be prudent given the oil leak advisory recorded in 2022.