2016 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · A8 JWW

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2025-08-26, passing with a minor advisory on rear brake pads wearing thin — a condition consistent with prior tests and not indicative of imminent failure. The maintenance trend shows a steady, predictable wear pattern rather than a worsening or improving trajectory. Brake pad thickness has been consistently flagged since 2023, suggesting routine monitoring and replacement cycles, not neglect. No structural, suspension, or emission-related failures have appeared in the last three tests, which is reassuring for a 10-year-old model. Mileage progression from 51,703 miles in 2022 to 80,071 miles in 2025 reflects a typical annual average of around 8,000 miles, aligning with the vehicle’s age and usage expectations. The gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests is notable — the same mileage was recorded in both tests, yet the 2022 test failed for a seat belt issue while the 2023 test passed with brake wear noted. This suggests the owner addressed the seat belt promptly and maintained the vehicle through regular servicing. No sudden spikes or long gaps in testing indicate the car has been consistently driven and maintained, with no signs of prolonged storage or neglect. Buyers should inspect the rear brake system closely, as pad wear has been a recurring theme since 2023. While not critical at the time of testing, thin pads indicate the system is nearing replacement — a cost to factor in. The nearside rear seat belt defect in 2022, though resolved, warrants checking the entire restraint system for wear or binding. Suspension components, particularly rear bushes and coil springs, should be examined for signs of sagging or noise, as these often accompany high mileage and consistent brake wear. Check for corrosion on the underbody and wheel arches, especially around the rear, as Audi Q5s can show early signs of rust in these areas. Exhaust emissions and structural integrity should be confirmed during a pre-purchase inspection, as these are not flagged in the MOT but are common failure points at this mileage. The MOT history reveals a vehicle that has been responsibly maintained, with no major mechanical or structural failures. The consistent brake pad wear is expected for its age and mileage, and the seat belt issue was addressed promptly. A buyer should expect to budget for brake pad replacement soon, and a thorough mechanical inspection should focus on suspension, exhaust, and corrosion points. The record suggests no hidden neglect — just the natural progression of wear on a well-used SUV.