2010 Audi A5 2.7L Diesel · BB58 PJB

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history indicates a trend of reactive rather than proactive maintenance regarding wear components. The most recent test in May 2026 at 153,195 miles identified a corroded centre exhaust clamp, worn front tyres, and leaking rear shock absorbers. While the car passed, the presence of misting shocks and corroded brake discs across the 2025 and 2026 tests suggests these components are nearing the functional end and will require imminent attention. The mileage pattern is consistent with a 16-year-old vehicle averaging approximately 9,600 miles per year. There is a significant increase in usage noted between 2018 and 2021, where the car covered over 52,000 miles in three years, compared to the much lower usage seen in its early life. This higher rate of driving has remained steady at roughly 10,000 miles per year thereafter, which correlates with the mechanical failures observed in the steering rack, suspension, and braking systems recorded during the higher-mileage entries. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the steering system and front suspension. The record shows a recurring history of steering rack issues, with inner joint play noted in 2021 and excessive free play causing a failure in 2024. Furthermore, the 2024 failure highlighted excessively worn front upper suspension arm bushes. The buyer should verify that these components were replaced with high-quality parts and check that the steering remains free of play during a test drive. The braking and damping systems also require close scrutiny. The rear shock absorbers have been flagged for oil misting for two consecutive years, indicating seal failure that will eventually lead to poor handling. The rear brake discs are described as lipped and corroded in both 2025 and 2026, suggesting the metal is thinning. Given the previous failure for mismatched tyre aspect ratios in 2024, the buyer should also ensure all four tyres are matching and of the correct specification for each axle to maintain vehicle stability.