2017 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · YA67 LLX

The most recent DVSA test on 2 June 2026 resulted in a pass, but this outcome must be considered alongside the simultaneous failure recorded on the same date for a fractured rear coil spring, which constitutes a serious structural and safety-related suspension defect. The pattern over the last two test cycles is concerning and indicates a worsening trend rather than stable maintenance. In 2025, an offside rear coil spring failed and prevented brake performance from being assessed, and in 2026 the nearside rear coil spring has fractured, suggesting either systemic corrosion fatigue, prolonged urban use over poor road surfaces, or simply the natural end-of-life for the original springs on a vehicle of this age and mileage. The fact that the 2024, 2023, 2022, and 2021 tests were passed without significant advisories makes the sudden emergence of repeated rear coil spring failures particularly notable and worth treating as a recurring vulnerability rather than an isolated event. Buyers should also note the recent tyre advisories for the nearside front and nearside rear wearing close to the legal limit and on the edge, which may hint at geometry or suspension-related wear patterns linked to the spring issue. With 96,538 miles recorded over approximately nine years, this Audi A4 has averaged around 10,700 miles per year, which is broadly typical for its age and suggests consistent rather than erratic use. There are no extended gaps in MOT coverage, which is helpful because it removes the suspicion of long standing periods that can lead to seized brakes, perishing rubber, and fluid degradation. However, the mileage is now firmly in the zone where the original suspension, drivetrain mounts, and ancillary components begin to require closer scrutiny, particularly given that coil springs have already failed twice on the rear axle within twelve months. A used car returning roughly 10,000 to 11,000 miles annually should have had its timing belt or cam belt, if fitted, replaced within the manufacturer's schedule, and any evidence of this service should be verified through the service book or invoices. On a physical inspection, particular attention should be paid to the remaining rear coil springs, as a single fractured spring dramatically increases the load on the opposite spring and accelerates its failure. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed humps, and observe whether the vehicle sits level at the rear or whether one corner has dropped noticeably. Uneven or accelerating tyre wear, particularly inner-edge wear, would reinforce suspicions that suspension geometry has been compromised by the spring failures. Both rear shock absorbers and the spring seats should also be inspected for corrosion, as salt ingress around fractured springs is common on vehicles of this vintage. The nearside front and rear tyres flagged at the last test will require immediate replacement, and a four-wheel alignment check is strongly recommended given the recent suspension disturbance. Beyond the recorded defects, the prospective buyer should carry out a series of age and mileage-appropriate checks. Brake discs on a nine-year-old car frequently exhibit lip corrosion or surface rust from light use, but the binding caliper test is also worthwhile by jacking each corner and confirming the wheel rotates freely without drag. Brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid if applicable should be assessed for age-related degradation rather than just condition, as these are calendar-serviced items. The 12V battery is approaching the end of its typical service life and should be load tested, while the underside of the vehicle, particularly the subframes, brake lines, and fuel lines, should be examined for corrosion given the recurring spring fractures. Finally, verify the cam belt or chain service history, confirm that all warning lamps extinguish promptly after ignition, and ensure the electronic parking brake releases and re-applies smoothly, as Audi EPB actuators can be expensive to refurbish if neglected.