Motoring Today

Audi A6 MOT reliability

Reliability from 6 Audi A6 cars with real DVSA MOT history — how often they pass first time, the most common failure reasons, and how much MOT life is left.

Reviewed by the Motoring Today Editorial team · methodology in our editorial standards.

How reliable is the Audi A6 at MOT?

Across 3 Audi A6 cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 88%. 100% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 10 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are suspension and tyres, from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
88%
Valid MOT
3 / 3
Median MOT left
10 mo
Top failure
Suspension

The Audi A6 demonstrates a solid MOT pass rate of 82.85% across 126,369 national DVSA tests. The most common reasons for failure are 'Lighting & electrical' (26%), 'Tyres' (25%), and 'Suspension' (16%). The 'Lighting & electrical' category tops the list, meaning issues with headlamps, indicators, or wiring are frequently identified. For a used A6 buyer, this highlights the importance of checking all lights, switches, and ensuring no warning lights are present on the dashboard. 'Tyres' failures often relate to insufficient tread depth or damage, which is a straightforward visual inspection. 'Suspension' can involve worn components like bushes, springs, or dampers, sometimes indicated by uneven tyre wear, knocking noises, or a less composed ride. While an 82.85% pass rate is encouraging, it's crucial to understand that MOT performance reflects the condition of vehicles presented for test at a specific point, not necessarily the lifetime reliability of the model. Failures often cluster with the age of the vehicle and the standard of maintenance it has received, rather than being inherent flaws of the badge itself. Thoroughly reviewing a vehicle's full MOT history, available on Motoring Today, can provide invaluable insight into its past care and recurring issues. At the time of writing, Motoring Today has 3 Audi A6 models available, with prices starting from £13,992, or a representative monthly finance example from £322. Finance is subject to status.

88First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
3 / 3
100% road-ready
Median MOT left
10 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
0
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Audi A6

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 6 Audi A6 cars with DVSA test history in our stock (4 recorded failure items).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Suspension375%
Tyres125%

Based on real DVSA MOT test records for cars currently listed. Individual condition varies — always check the specific car's MOT history and advisories on its listing.

MOT pass rate is the percentage of Audi A6 cars in our stock that passed their most recent MOT on the first attempt, based on DVSA history. A pass rate above 80% is generally strong for a car of this age.

If a car you're viewing is approaching its MOT expiry, factor in the cost of any advisories — these are listed on each vehicle detail page.

Frequently asked questions

What is the MOT pass rate for a used Audi A6?
The Audi A6 has a national MOT pass rate of 82.85%. This figure is derived from 126,369 real DVSA MOT tests conducted on Audi A6 vehicles across the UK.
What are the most common MOT failures on an Audi A6?
The most frequent reasons for an Audi A6 failing its MOT are issues with Lighting & electrical (26%), Tyres (25%), and Suspension (16%). Brakes (11%) also contribute to common failures.
Is the Audi A6 reliable?
An MOT pass rate reflects the condition of vehicles presented for testing, not necessarily their lifetime reliability. While the Audi A6 has an 82.85% pass rate, MOT failures often increase with vehicle age and can be influenced by maintenance and overall care.
What should I check before buying a used Audi A6?
Before purchasing an Audi A6, pay close attention to the lighting and electrical systems, the condition of the tyres, and the suspension components, as these are the most common failure points in MOT tests. Also check the brakes carefully.
How many Audi A6 cars are for sale now and what is the cheapest price/monthly payment?
There are currently 3 Audi A6 models for sale. The cheapest available starts from £14,556, or £335 per month. This is a representative example, and finance is subject to status.
What are the most common MOT failures on the Audi A6?
Across 6 Audi A6 cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are suspension and tyres (suspension account for 75% of recorded failures).

More Audi A6 resources