2009 Audi A4 3.0L Diesel · W30 SAF

The most recent MOT inspection on 17 October 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, following a minor failure for an inoperative rear registration plate lamp. This indicates that the vehicle's recent maintenance trend is stable, as the primary electrical and safety issues identified in previous years have been rectified. The history shows a pattern of resolving minor lighting and windscreen issues, suggesting that while the vehicle has required occasional attention for consumable items, it has been maintained sufficiently to meet legal roadworthiness standards without any recurring major structural or mechanical failures appearing in the recent records. With 114,157 miles covered over approximately 17 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,715 miles per year. This represents relatively low annual usage for an Audi A4 of this age, which typically suggests a lifestyle of shorter, more infrequent journeys rather than heavy motorway commuting. While lower mileage can reduce wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can also lead to specific issues associated with vehicles that spend significant time stationary. You should be mindful that low-mileage vehicles are more prone to component degradation caused by age rather than wear, such as rubber perishability and fluid oxidation, rather than the mechanical fatigue seen in high-mileage counterparts. The MOT history from 2022 highlights previous concerns regarding brake disc condition and tyre wear, specifically mentioning pitted or scored inner brake discs and tyres worn close to the legal limit. Although these were cleared in subsequent tests, you must closely inspect the braking system during a test drive. Listen for any rhythmic grinding or squealing when applying the brakes, and feel for any pulsations or shuddering through the brake pedal, which could indicate that the discs are once again warping or corroding unevenly. Additionally, check the tread depth and sidewall integrity of all four tyres; given the low annual mileage, look specifically for sidewall cracking or perishing, which occurs when rubber loses its elasticity due to age regardless of how much the car has been driven. Because this vehicle has a history of being driven less frequently, you should perform a thorough physical inspection of the underbody for signs of standing corrosion or binding brake calipers. Check that the vehicle tracks straight and does not pull to one side, which would indicate uneven suspension bush wear or alignment issues. It is also advisable to verify the service history for evidence of calendar-based maintenance, such as brake fluid changes and coolant flushes, which are critical for older vehicles with lower mileage to prevent internal corrosion and seal degradation. Finally, ensure the 12V battery is in good health, as infrequent usage can often lead to sulfation and reduced cranking power.