2015 Audi A5 3.0L Diesel · AS11 XES

The most recent DVSA examination on 20 May 2026 recorded a Pass with no advisories or defects noted, which is a positive immediate indicator. However, this pass followed a failure on the same date for both front headlamps being aimed too low, a Prescriptive type failure that was presumably rectified prior to the pass being issued. Looking at the broader pattern across the last three years, the vehicle has passed each annual test, but the 2024 examination attracted a notable cluster of advisories covering both rear brake discs and both front lower suspension arm pins or bushes, accompanied by a failure on the same visit for excessively cut rear tyres and a leaking rear nearside shock absorber. The trend therefore suggests a car that is generally roadworthy but is showing progressive wear on its braking and suspension components, with the 2026 record demonstrating that ancillary items such as headlamp alignment are also now requiring attention. With 94,331 miles recorded over approximately 11 years, this A5 has covered an average of around 8,576 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and broadly consistent with a mix of commuting and longer journeys. There is no evidence in the supplied history of any extended standing period or of particularly rapid mileage accumulation, and the MOT records demonstrate an unbroken annual testing pattern with no missing years. From a mechanical standpoint, this regular usage is generally favourable as it tends to keep seals, brakes, and drivetrain components functioning as intended, though the recorded mileage is sufficient to expect wear on common service items including timing chains, oil separator membranes, and turbocharger-related components that are known concerns on this generation of Audi petrol and diesel engines. The advisories recorded in May 2024 should not be dismissed. Worn rear brake discs that were not yet considered excessive at that time will have continued to wear over the intervening two years, and a prospective buyer should thoroughly inspect the rear discs for lipping, scoring, or corrosion pitting, particularly on a car that may have spent time standing during recent periods. The front lower suspension arm pin or bush wear noted on both sides is a common failure point on the A5 and B8 platform, and any test drive should involve driving over broken road surfaces and speed bumps while listening for clonking, knocking, or rattling from the front end, as well as observing whether the steering feels vague or whether the front tyres show uneven inner or outer edge wear. The 2024 failure for a leaking rear shock absorber should prompt a check that a replacement was fitted, and the new units should be inspected for any seepage, while the replacement of both rear tyres at the same time offers some reassurance that the wheels and alignment were attended to, though a four-wheel alignment check remains worthwhile. Given the age and mileage, even with a generally clean MOT history, several age-related items warrant physical inspection prior to purchase. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking, perishing, and tread depth, as rubber degrades with age regardless of mileage, and the spare should be checked for inflation and condition. Brake calipers, particularly at the rear, can seize on vehicles that see light use, so a test drive should confirm the car rolls freely when released and that the handbrake holds and releases cleanly. The 12 volt battery should be tested for state of health, as batteries beyond five years frequently fail without warning, and all fluids including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and the automatic gearbox fluid if applicable should be inspected for age, colour, and level. Finally, the headlamp aim failure recorded in 2026 serves as a useful reminder to verify that both front lamps are correctly adjusted and that the load sensor, which on the A5 can affect headlamp level, is functioning correctly.