2016 Audi Q5 3.0L Diesel · B8 XSL

This Audi Q5 presents a clean and stable MOT history, with the most recent test on 28 January 2026 at 72,664 miles showing no defects—an outcome mirrored across all five recorded entries since 2022 . The absence of advisories, minor faults, or failures over this period suggests the vehicle has been well maintained under test conditions, with no signs of recurring mechanical issues or structural deterioration. Such consistency is uncommon in vehicles of this age and mileage, particularly given the Q5’s propensity for suspension and brake wear. The fact that the last two tests, in January 2025 (71,743 miles) and December 2023 (69,851 miles) , also passed without comment further reinforces this stability. However, the 12-month gap between the December 2023 and January 2025 tests —covering 1,892 miles in just over a year —raises a red flag. While the low mileage accumulation is typical for a lightly used vehicle, such prolonged inactivity without documented maintenance (e.g., fluid checks, tyre rotations) could mask latent issues, particularly in seals, suspension bushes, or brake components. The mileage pattern indicates extremely light usage , averaging just 7,266 miles per year over its decade of ownership—a figure well below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. The 1,892-mile gap between tests (December 2023 to January 2025) is particularly striking, suggesting the car may have spent extended periods in storage or seen only occasional use. While low mileage is generally beneficial for long-term component life, it also means critical consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension elements may have been neglected if not actively monitored. The 2022 to 2023 mileage jump (from 63,020 to 67,238 miles )—a 4,218-mile increase in just over a year —hints at a brief period of slightly higher activity, but this remains minimal compared to typical annual distances. Without additional service records, it’s impossible to confirm whether routine maintenance was upheld during these phases, but the MOT history alone does not reveal any forced or emergency repairs, which would often leave traces in test outcomes. For a prospective buyer, the primary focus should be on hidden wear from low-mileage neglect . Given the lack of recorded faults, the suspension—particularly coil springs, anti-roll bars, and bushings —should be inspected for stiffness or degradation, as these components can deteriorate even with minimal use if fluids were not refreshed. Brake system health is another critical area; while the MOTs show no failures, binding calipers, uneven disc wear, or seized handbrake mechanisms are common in vehicles with intermittent use. The exhaust system should also be checked for corrosion or leaks, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate rust in damp conditions. Finally, structural integrity —especially around wheel arches, sills, and underbody panels—must be scrutinised, as corrosion can develop unseen in stored vehicles. The absence of MOT advisories is encouraging, but a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised to verify the absence of deferred maintenance issues.