2017 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · AX17 APZ

The vehicle's most recent DVSA examination on 18 February 2026 resulted in a Pass, which is reassuring at first glance; however, a closer look at the immediate prior history reveals a Fail on 17 February 2026 classified as Dangerous due to a nearside front tyre with ply or cords exposed. That tyre defect alone would have rendered the vehicle unlawful and unsafe for use on the road, and it suggests that the previous owner may have been operating the vehicle right at the legal wear limits or beyond. When the Fail is reconciled with the following day's Pass, it indicates that the tyre was simply replaced and the suspension arm advisory carried over, rather than any broader mechanical remediation. The overall trend across the recorded tests is therefore not one of worsening condition, but it does show a recurring focus on the nearside front corner, with advisories on the suspension arm pin or bush in both 2026 entries and a tyre worn close to the legal limit on edge in March 2024. The absence of any recorded defects in 2023 and 2025 demonstrates that the vehicle can pass cleanly when consumables are properly maintained, but the recurring advisories warrant direct physical inspection. With 86,296 miles recorded over approximately nine years, this Q5 averages around 9,588 miles annually, which sits squarely within typical UK usage parameters for a vehicle of this age and class. There is no evidence in the MOT history of extended standing periods or erratic mileage accumulation, and the steady year-on-year progression implies regular use rather than the corrosion and fluid degradation risks associated with low-mileage or stored vehicles. That said, 86,000 miles is a meaningful workload for a premium SUV, and the drivetrain, suspension, and braking components will have accumulated considerable wear commensurate with this distance. Prospective buyers should therefore anticipate that age-and-mileage-related servicing such as brake fluid replacement, coolant renewal, and potentially timing chain or haldex servicing on the quattro system may be due or imminent. The persistent advisory concerning the nearside front suspension arm pin or bush is the most significant mechanical item to investigate. A worn pin or bush in this location is a known wear point on the Q5, particularly on the front lower control arms, and progression typically manifests as a clonking or knocking noise from the front end over speed humps, during sharp direction changes, or on uneven road surfaces. During a test drive, listen carefully for any slack or rattling when turning at low speed, and inspect the tyre wear pattern on the nearside front, as a deteriorating bush commonly causes uneven or inner-edge wear that can accelerate tyre consumption, which would also explain the 2024 advisory noting the tyre worn on edge. Replacement of the control arm and bush assembly is a relatively straightforward repair, but the cost on an Audi Q5 can be considerable depending on whether the arm is replaced in isolation or with the full hub carrier assembly. Beyond the documented MOT items, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants a comprehensive physical inspection regardless of its clean test record. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing from age, as rubber compounds degrade with calendar age even when tread depth remains adequate, and verify that matching brands and tread patterns are fitted across each axle. Inspect the brake discs for lipping and corrosion, as standing moisture from infrequent heavy braking can cause binding calipers and uneven disc wear. Check the 12V battery health, particularly given the vehicle's electrical demands, and confirm that the service book shows evidence of regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals. Under the bonnet, look for any signs of coolant weepage around the water pump and thermostat housing, oil leaks from the sump plug or cam chain cover, and verify the condition of the air filter and spark plugs if due. Finally, on the test drive, confirm smooth operation of the quattro system under moderate acceleration on a loose or wet surface, listen for any drivetrain shunt on tight turns indicative of haldex coupling wear, and ensure the automatic gearbox changes cleanly through all gears without hesitation or flare.