AUDI A8 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,468 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
92%
Total Tests (2024)
1,468
Avg Mileage
113,405 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,750
Is the 2012 AUDI A8 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 10 points above the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 92% of AUDI A8s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,468 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 113,405 miles.
How does the 2012 AUDI A8 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 AUDI A8 has 113,405 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
Best year to buy a AUDI A8?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 98% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 77%. The 2012 sits between the two at 92%.
How much does a 2012 AUDI A8 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
AUDI A8 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 98% | 170 | 35,071 mi |
| 2020 | 96% | 599 | 39,317 mi |
| 2019 | 95% | 1,932 | 50,413 mi |
| 2018 | 95% | 2,387 | 59,736 mi |
| 2017 | 95% | 1,392 | 72,207 mi |
| 2016 | 94% | 1,876 | 80,025 mi |
| 2015 | 93% | 2,300 | 85,475 mi |
| 2014 | 94% | 1,889 | 98,201 mi |
| 2013 | 91% | 1,562 | 108,280 mi |
| 2012 | 92% | 1,468 | 113,405 mi |
| 2011 | 93% | 1,392 | 120,960 mi |
| 2010 | 87% | 933 | 124,272 mi |
| 2009 | 89% | 735 | 138,957 mi |
| 2008 | 87% | 1,332 | 140,305 mi |
| 2007 | 86% | 1,124 | 147,303 mi |
| 2006 | 85% | 748 | 146,966 mi |
| 2005 | 87% | 661 | 142,434 mi |
| 2004 | 80% | 349 | 134,086 mi |
| 2003 | 84% | 223 | 134,224 mi |
| 2002 | 84% | 166 | 137,356 mi |
| 2001 | 85% | 157 | 141,044 mi |
| 2000 | 77% | 104 | 143,697 mi |
| 1999 | 80% | 192 | 140,354 mi |
| 1998 | 80% | 122 | 136,028 mi |
| 1997 | 79% | 115 | 131,393 mi |
| 1996 | 74% | 31 | 135,336 mi |
Checking a specific AUDI A8?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 AUDI A8
The 2012 AUDI A8 is a premium performance with a 3000cc diesel engine. 1,468 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It ranks in the top 12% of all 2012 cars for reliability.
With an average of 113,405 miles at 12 years old, AUDI A8 owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2012 AUDI A8 Fuel Costs
The 3000cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2012 AUDI A8?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,750 (£146/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 92% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
AUDI A8 Reliability Trend
Newer AUDI A8s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 AUDI A8
At 12 years old, the AUDI A8 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 98%.
Alternatives to the 2012 AUDI A8
The AUDI A8 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel premium performances from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER (2013) 88% pass rate (-4%) from 27,426 tests
- AUDI A4 (2011) 82% pass rate (-10%) from 26,901 tests
- JAGUAR XF (2014) 84% pass rate (-8%) from 26,866 tests
- AUDI A5 (2013) 85% pass rate (-7%) from 23,409 tests