2017 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · AS10 ATS

The latest MOT test for this Audi A5 was passed on 22 June 2026, but the recent testing trend indicates a decline in mechanical condition compared to previous years. While the vehicle maintained a clean record through 2023, 2024, and 2025, the 2026 inspection cycle has seen the introduction of multiple failures and recurring advisories. This shift from a defect-free history to a failed test involving windscreen wipers and suspension components suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase of increased maintenance requirements as various wear-and-tear components reach the end of their functional lifespan. With 154,333 miles recorded over nine years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 17,148 miles per year. This represents high annual usage for a vehicle of this age, suggesting consistent long-distance driving rather than infrequent or short-trip use. While high mileage can often imply a well-maintained motorway cruiser, it also means that the drivetrain, turbocharger, and suspension systems have undergone significant cycles of stress. Prospective buyers should be aware that high-mileage vehicles typically require more frequent attention to consumables and may be approaching major service intervals for critical components such as timing belts, water pumps, or gearbox oil changes. The most immediate concern for a prospective buyer is the front suspension assembly. The MOT history highlights worn lower suspension arm pins and bushes on both the offside and nearside fronts, following a previous failure involving an upper suspension arm ball joint dust cover. During a test drive, you should listen intently for clunking, knocking, or creaking sounds, particularly when navigating uneven surfaces or speed bumps. Excessive play in these components can also manifest as steering vagueness or a pulling sensation to one side. Additionally, inspect the front tyres for irregular or uneven wear patterns, as worn suspension bushings often cause premature and uneven tyre scrubbing. Furthermore, the recent failure regarding ineffective windscreen wipers indicates that the wiper blades or the underlying wiper motor mechanism may be failing. Ensure the wipers operate smoothly across the entire windscreen without streaking or juddering. Given the high mileage, it is also essential to verify the service history for evidence of regular oil changes and to check for any signs of fluid leaks from the engine or transmission. Inspect the brake discs for significant thinning or heavy corrosion and check the brake pads for remaining thickness, as the high mileage suggests the braking system will have seen substantial use.