2017 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · 11 LL

Recurring advisories regarding engine covers and under trays obscuring testable components have been a consistent feature of this vehicle's MOT history since at least 2021, including the most recent pass on 14 February 2026. While the vehicle has maintained a continuous pass record, the repeated presence of these underbody covers means that certain mechanical components may not have been fully visible for inspection during the annual tests. This pattern of advisories suggests that while the vehicle is being presented for testing, the physical accessibility of the underside for a comprehensive visual check of leaks or corrosion has been periodically limited. The recorded mileage of 55,310 miles over approximately nine years represents an average annual accumulation of roughly 6,146 miles. This usage profile is relatively low for a vehicle of this age and type, indicating a pattern of light annual use. Mechanically, this lower mileage suggests that high-wear drivetrain components and engine internals may have experienced less cumulative stress than a higher-mileage equivalent; however, it also means the vehicle has not been subjected to the frequent, long-distance motorway running that can help prevent certain types of moisture accumulation and component seizure. A specific mechanical concern noted in the 2024 MOT record involves an advisory for a worn offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush. Although this was not flagged as an immediate failure at the time, such wear in suspension bushings can progress. During a test drive, you should pay close attention to the handling and listen for any dull knocks or clunks when driving over uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, particularly when turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Any sensation of the steering feeling vague or imprecise could also indicate that the bushing wear has increased since the last inspection. Given the repeated advisories regarding underbody covers obscuring components, a thorough physical inspection of the underside is necessary to verify the condition of items that may have been hidden from the tester. You should look for evidence of oil misting or active leaks around the engine and gearbox, as well as any signs of corrosion on the exhaust system or subframe. Because the MOT history cannot confirm the visibility of these parts, checking for fluid drips on the ground or smelling for burnt oil after a drive is a prudent step to ensure no underlying leaks have been masked by the protective trays.