The 2011 Audi Q5 has maintained a consistent MOT history with no defects recorded across the last five annual tests, including the most recent pass on 1 December 2025 at 135,319 miles. This suggests the vehicle has undergone regular, compliant roadworthiness checks without major mechanical failures or advisory trends. The absence of failings—even in prior years—indicates that, at least on paper, the car has not suffered from persistent issues like suspension degradation, brake binding, or structural corrosion. However, the record does not reveal service intervals or repairs beyond MOT requirements, meaning critical maintenance—such as timing belt replacement, differential servicing, or high-mileage suspension refresh—remains unverified. Buyers should treat this as a baseline of compliance rather than comprehensive care.
The mileage progression of approximately 9,000 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the gap between the 2022 December tests (both at 97,245 miles) is unusual—suggesting either a double-check or an administrative error rather than genuine inactivity. No extended periods of low mileage are evident, which could imply the car has been driven regularly rather than stored. That said, the lack of mileage variation between tests also means there’s no evidence of aggressive driving or severe wear patterns to anticipate. Still, the final 14,000 miles since the last MOT (December 2025 to July 2026) warrant scrutiny, as even well-maintained vehicles can accumulate wear in consumable components over this interval.
Given the clean MOT record, priority should be given to inspecting high-wear areas that aren’t routinely tested. The suspension—particularly the rear coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be checked for uneven sagging or excessive play, as these components degrade predictably over 15 years and 135,000 miles. Brake discs and pads, while not failed in MOTs, may show uneven wear or glazing, especially if the vehicle has been driven hard. The exhaust system should be examined for leaks or corrosion, particularly around joints and underbody mounts, as these often go unnoticed until they fail. Finally, the underbody and wheel arches should be scrutinised for structural rust, as the Q5’s aluminium bodywork can mask corrosion until it compromises critical areas like subframes or control arms. A thorough check of fluid levels (brake, power steering, coolant) and service history gaps would further clarify whether the vehicle has received proper attention beyond MOT compliance.