2018 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · BD68 GLZ

A recurring pattern of brake component wear is the primary mechanical feature of this vehicle's inspection history. While the most recent test on 31 March 2026 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects, previous inspections in 2025, 2023, and 2021 all flagged thinning brake pads. This indicates a consistent trend of consumable wear across both front and rear axles over the last five years. The absence of defects in the latest 2026 MOT suggests that the advisory items noted in 2025 have been addressed or have reached a point of replacement, moving the vehicle from a state of noted wear back to a clean pass. The vehicle has covered 75,785 miles over its eight-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of approximately 9,473 miles. This usage profile is consistent with typical UK road patterns and suggests the vehicle has not been subject to excessive high-speed motorway mileage or, conversely, prolonged periods of stationary use. From a mechanical standpoint, this steady mileage accumulation implies a predictable rate of wear on suspension bushes, steering linkages, and drivetrain components, rather than the accelerated degradation often seen in high-mileage commercial vehicles or the potential seizing of components associated with very low-usage vehicles. Prospective buyers should focus their physical inspection on the braking system, given the repeated advisories for thinning pads. During a test drive, it is essential to monitor for any signs of brake judder under deceleration, which could indicate warped discs, or any unusual squealing or grinding noises that suggest the pads have reached their wear indicators. Additionally, because the brake system has been a recurring point of note, the driver should check for a firm, consistent pedal feel and ensure there is no pulling to one side when braking, which might suggest a sticking caliper or uneven pad wear. Beyond the braking system, the steady mileage suggests that while major structural failures have not been recorded, the vehicle is at an age where secondary wear items may soon require attention. While no specific suspension or steering defects were flagged in the DVSA records, the driver should listen for knocks or clunks when traversing uneven surfaces or turning the steering wheel at low speeds, which can indicate worn ball joints or control arm bushes. The lack of recorded emissions or exhaust defects is a positive indicator of the current state of the engine's combustion efficiency as of the latest test.