2016 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · AS14 LXT

The 2016 Audi Q5’s latest MOT test on 2026-08-11 resulted in a clean pass, though it did reveal several persistent advisories that suggest a pattern of wear and potential underlying issues requiring attention. While the vehicle passed this most recent inspection, the two failed MOTs in the preceding two years—particularly the 2024-05-11 test—highlight a concerning trend of significant brake disc wear and critical suspension defects, including a major fluid leak in the offside rear shock absorber. These failures indicate that the vehicle has not been adequately maintained, with the most recent failures pointing to progressive deterioration in braking systems and suspension components that must be addressed promptly to prevent further damage or safety risks. The advisories from earlier tests, such as light oil misting in the front and rear shock absorbers, suggest that minor issues have escalated over time, likely due to neglect in servicing or replacement of worn-out components. The recorded mileage of 209,278 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a high annual usage rate of around 20,928 miles per year, which is unusually aggressive for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and tyres, as well as potential stress on drivetrain components and fluid degradation. The absence of significant mileage gaps implies the vehicle has been in regular, heavy use, which can exacerbate wear patterns and reduce the lifespan of critical systems. Given the high mileage, the wear observed in the brake discs and shock absorbers is not unexpected, but the rapid progression of these failures—especially the major leak and severe disc wear—suggests either inadequate maintenance or prolonged periods of heavy, demanding usage without proper servicing intervals. Given the recurring advisories and failed MOTs, the prospective buyer must conduct a thorough inspection to confirm the condition of the brake system and suspension. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks from the suspension, particularly around the rear offside area where the fluid leak was noted, which may indicate further deterioration or binding in the shock absorber. Check for uneven tyre wear, especially on the offside front tyres, which were previously worn close to the legal limit, and verify that the brakes respond smoothly without pulsation or shuddering, which could signal warped discs or worn calipers. Inspect the brake discs for excessive thickness loss beyond the advisory thresholds, and ensure no corrosion or binding is present on the calipers or brake lines. Additionally, visually confirm the absence of oil leaks around the shock absorber mounts and check for any soft or spongy suspension feel, which may indicate internal failure. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also verify the vehicle’s service history, particularly for brake system servicing and suspension component replacements, to ensure the failures documented in the MOT records were not the result of neglect. Given the high mileage, consider a full fluid top-up, including brake fluid, differential fluid, and coolant, as these fluids degrade over time and can lead to system failure if not replaced. Inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity, especially after prolonged periods of storage or low-mileage use. Finally, check the 12V battery health and connections, as prolonged idling or high mileage can accelerate battery wear, and ensure the battery is securely mounted to prevent vibration-induced failure. If the vehicle has been in storage for extended periods, verify that the fuel system is clear of moisture or sediment, and that the exhaust emissions system has not been compromised by prolonged idling or fuel contamination.