2017 Audi A5 3.0L Petrol · AX17 ARU

The 2017 Audi A5 has maintained a consistent MOT history with no defects recorded across all five tests, most recently passing on 28 October 2025 at 52,693 miles. This suggests the vehicle has undergone regular servicing and has not experienced any major mechanical or structural failures during the testing periods. The absence of advisories or failings indicates that the core systems—brakes, suspension, exhaust emissions, and structural integrity—have remained within acceptable limits. However, the most recent test occurred just over nine months ago, which is within the standard MOT validity period, but given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is still essential to confirm the condition of high-wear components. The recorded mileage of 52,693 miles over approximately nine years equates to an average of around 5,855 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests—particularly the 14-month interval between the 2023 and 2021 tests—suggest periods of inactivity, which could either indicate light usage or prolonged storage. Such low mileage does not necessarily imply excessive wear on the engine or drivetrain, but it may mean that suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components have not been subjected to the usual stress. Conversely, extended periods without movement could introduce corrosion risks, particularly in the underbody and wheel arches. Given the clean MOT record, the primary focus of a pre-purchase inspection should be on components that degrade predictably with low mileage but prolonged age. The suspension system—including rear coil springs, front and rear bushes, and strut mounts—should be examined for dry rot or perished rubber. Brake discs and calipers, while not failing in tests, may show uneven wear or binding if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Corrosion in wheel arches, sills, and subframes should be checked, as standing water can accelerate rust development. Additionally, the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or structural weakness, especially if the vehicle has been stored without movement. The absence of advisories or failings in the MOT history is reassuring, but the low mileage pattern introduces a different set of considerations. A buyer should verify that the vehicle has been properly maintained during periods of inactivity, such as wheel bearings being lubricated and tyres rotated to prevent uneven wear. The interior and exterior should also be inspected for signs of neglect, such as cracked dashboard materials or faded upholstery, which could indicate prolonged storage without use. While the MOT record provides a baseline of roadworthiness, a professional inspection remains the only way to confirm the true condition of the vehicle’s hidden components.