2013 Audi A6 3.0L Diesel · ST13 CAP

The most recent MOT, carried out on 12 September 2025, was passed but recorded an advisory for a minor oil leak (8.4.1 (a)(i)). Over the last six years the vehicle has shown a gradual accumulation of wear‑related advisories – front upper suspension arm bushes noted in 2022, rear brake pads flagged as thin in late 2023 and again in early 2024, and tyre wear warnings in 2024. While the car has consistently passed the test, the pattern indicates a maintenance picture that is holding steady but beginning to show the typical wear of an ageing, moderately used executive sedan rather than improving. At 141,309 miles the 2013 Audi A6 averages roughly 10,900 miles per annum, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope for a vehicle of this age. There are no evident gaps in the recorded mileage that would suggest long periods of storage, nor any spikes that would point to unusually high annual mileage. Consequently the wear observed on suspension components, brake pads and tyres is consistent with the mileage rather than being accelerated by excessive use. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front upper suspension arm bushings on both sides; although the MOT advisory noted no excessive movement, worn pins can develop play that manifests as a clunk or vague front‑end vibration when negotiating bumps. A thorough visual inspection for cracked rubber, corrosion on the mounting bolts and a test‑drive that includes slow‑speed cornering and a brief run over a speed‑bump will reveal any looseness. The rear brake pads were flagged as thin in the last two tests, so the pads should be measured for remaining thickness and the discs inspected for scoring or glazing; a shudder or pulsation under heavy braking would indicate that the discs may need resurfacing or replacement. The off‑side direction indicator failed in 2023; verify that both indicators now function correctly and that the bulb sockets and wiring are free of corrosion, as a faulty indicator can be symptomatic of broader electrical gremlins. Given the vehicle’s age, even with a reasonable mileage profile, age‑related deterioration must be checked. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that may have progressed since the 2024 advisory, and confirm that the tread depth exceeds the legal minimum. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and test its cranking voltage, especially if the car has spent periods idle. Look for any signs of oil seepage around the front oil filter housing and the valve cover, as the MOT noted minor leaks that could develop into larger breaches if seals have hardened. Finally, confirm that the service book shows timely changes of engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and the timing chain oil (if applicable), as calendar‑based fluid degradation can affect reliability even on a vehicle that has not been driven hard.