2020 Audi A5 S Line 40 Tfsi Mhev S-A 2.0L Petrol · AV18 AJB

The most recent DVSA examination on 13 December 2025 returned a clean pass with no defects recorded, which is a positive immediate indicator for prospective buyers. However, this clean result should be viewed in the context of the two prior test entries, both of which recorded significant tyre-related failures. On 2024-12-11 the vehicle failed on all four tyres for exposing ply or cords, with the fronts additionally noted as being below the 1.6mm legal tread depth, and an advisory recorded for a nail in the offside rear. A subsequent test on 2025-08-14 again recorded failures across all four positions for cuts deep enough to reach the tyre carcass, alongside an advisory noting corrosion at the nearside rear lower coil spring mounting. The pattern suggests that tyre condition has been a consistent weak point, possibly indicating kerbing damage, road surface debris strikes, or simply the use of budget-pattern replacement tyres that have not held up well. The recorded spring corrosion advisory is also a meaningful early-stage structural observation worth monitoring, as left unchecked it can progress to component weakening and ultimately failure. Recorded mileage stands at 46,870 miles across approximately six years of service, equating to an annual average of around 7,800 miles, which is broadly typical for a modern premium vehicle of this age. The mileage progression between test entries appears steady rather than erratic, suggesting consistent usage rather than long periods of standing or unusually high motorway accumulation. This level of use is generally favourable for the mechanical health of the drivetrain, as components such as the mild hybrid electrical system, dual-clutch transmission, turbocharged petrol engine, and braking system benefit from regular operation. There are no large unexplained gaps in the mileage progression that would suggest the vehicle may have been laid up for extended periods, which can otherwise lead to issues with seized calipers, deteriorated brake discs from surface corrosion, and 12V battery degradation. That said, given the vehicle's specification, the buyer should still confirm that the manufacturer-recommended servicing schedule has been fully adhered to, as Audi intervals on the TFSI MHEV powertrain are stringent and crucial for long-term reliability. Given the recurring tyre failures across multiple test entries, the prospective buyer should conduct a careful physical inspection of all four fitted tyres, paying particular attention to the sidewalls for any cuts, bulges, or perishing, as well as confirming that the tread depth is comfortably above the legal 1.6mm minimum and ideally showing even wear across the contact patch. Uneven wear across the axle may point to tracking, geometry, or suspension component issues, and on a test drive any pulling to one side, steering vibration, or thumping noise over bumps should be noted and investigated. The advisory concerning corrosion at the nearside rear coil spring mounting is a particular concern that warrants close inspection, ideally with the vehicle raised on a ramp to allow a clear view of the spring pans, lower mounting seats, and surrounding structural metalwork; coil spring corrosion on Audis of this era can progress rapidly, particularly in regions where road salt is used, and eventual replacement of the affected spring plus its pairing on the same axle is usually required. Beyond the recorded defects, a six-year-old A5 with moderate mileage warrants several age-appropriate checks regardless of its MOT standing. Brake discs and pads should be inspected for wear, as front discs on performance-oriented S Line models can be marginal at this mileage and replacement with the pads is the standard approach. The 12V battery health should be verified, particularly given the presence of the mild hybrid system, as low state of charge can trigger a cascade of electrical warnings and is a known weak point on MHEV vehicles left standing. All fluid conditions warrant confirmation, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid (which is hygroscopic and degrades on a time basis regardless of mileage), and the DSG transmission oil, the last of which is frequently neglected on Audi S Tronic gearboxes and can lead to rough shifting or mechatronic faults if not changed at the prescribed interval. Finally, verify that the digital service history is complete and that any recalls or software updates relating to the mild hybrid system or infotainment have been carried out, as these can have a direct bearing on the vehicle's long-term reliability and resale value.