2021 Audi Q5 2.0L Petrol · AC12 COG

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2021 Audi Q5 was conducted on 8 October 2025 and resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded. Looking at the broader test history, the vehicle passed on 12 September 2024 with no recorded defects, while a separate test on the same date resulted in a failure due to a nearside rear tyre with a cut deep enough to reach the ply or cords. This is an isolated, single-tyre incident rather than a pattern of systemic deterioration, and the immediate retest evidently cleared the issue. The overall maintenance trajectory therefore appears to be stable, with no recurring advisories relating to brakes, suspension, corrosion, or emissions that would suggest underlying mechanical neglect. With 60,151 miles recorded over approximately five years, this Q5 is averaging around 12,000 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a premium SUV of this class. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage that would suggest long periods of standing, and the consistent accumulation indicates regular use, which is generally beneficial for keeping mechanical components, seals, and drivetrain lubricants in healthy working condition. However, at 60,000 miles the vehicle will be approaching several scheduled major service intervals typically specified by Audi, including brake fluid renewal, coolant replacement, and potentially the first major cambelt or timing chain inspection depending on engine variant. Any prospective buyer should verify that these interval-based services have been carried out, as they are time-sensitive rather than purely mileage-dependent. Given the relatively high but steady mileage, particular attention should be paid during a physical inspection to the condition of consumable and wear items. The nearside rear tyre cut recorded on the failed test serves as a useful reminder to inspect all four tyres for sidewall damage, cracking, and tread depth, as cuts from kerbing or road debris are common on a vehicle of this footprint. A thorough test drive should include listening for any suspension clonks or knocks over uneven surfaces, which could indicate wear on the front and rear control arm bushes, anti-roll bar links, or coil springs. The brakes should be checked for shudder under firm pedal pressure, which would suggest disc warp, and the vehicle should be observed from a standstill to ensure there is no pulling to one side that might indicate a binding caliper. Fluid leaks, particularly from the front or rear differential seals on this quattro-equipped model, should be looked for on the underside during any inspection. Beyond the wear items, age and calendar-based deterioration should also be considered even with healthy annual usage. Brake fluid is hygroscopic and should have been renewed within the last two to three years regardless of mileage, so verifying the date of the last fluid change is worthwhile. The 12V battery in modern Audis is subjected to constant parasitic drain from the vehicle's electronic systems and may show early signs of weakness, particularly if the car has been used predominantly for short journeys. Coolant, transmission fluid on the automatic gearbox, and the haldex coupling oil on the quattro drivetrain are all subject to time-based degradation, and evidence of recent renewal through service history stamps or invoices will provide useful reassurance. Finally, a visual check underneath the vehicle for any surface corrosion to underbody components and a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for splits or hangers would be sensible given the vehicle's age and the British climate, even though no structural or corrosion advisories have yet appeared on the MOT record.