2016 Audi A5 3.0L Petrol · BE11 AWA

The most recent MOT, carried out on 17 August 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, confirming that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that time. Over the past six years the car has consistently passed its annual test, with the only recorded failure in August 2023 relating to a non‑conforming registration plate – a purely administrative issue that does not reflect the mechanical condition of the car. Aside from a series of advisories in December 2020 concerning front tyre tread, front brake disc wear and limited access to adult seat‑belt inspection, the MOT record shows no recurring faults, indicating a stable maintenance trend. At ten years old the Audi A5 has logged 49,389 miles, equating to an average of just under 5,000 miles per annum. This is considerably below the typical UK average for a vehicle of its class and suggests either very light daily use or extended periods of inactivity. Low annual mileage generally reduces wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads and clutch components, but prolonged standing can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension bushings and brake hardware. There are no obvious mileage spikes that would point to a period of heavy short‑term use, so the wear pattern is likely to be age‑driven rather than mileage‑driven. When you inspect the car, give particular attention to the front tyres that were flagged in 2020 as being close to the legal tread limit and showing edge wear. Even if the tread depth has been restored by replacement, the sidewalls may have aged, so look for cracking, hardening or bulging, especially on the inner and outer shoulders. During a test drive listen for any low‑frequency thumping or vibration that could indicate uneven tyre wear or a mis‑aligned suspension. Check the front brake discs for any surface rust, scoring or excessive thickness variation; a slight wear ridge was noted previously, so measuring disc thickness and confirming that the pads are not excessively worn will help avoid premature replacement. Verify that the registration plate now complies with the DVLA specifications, as an incorrect plate can lead to another MOT failure. Given the vehicle’s age and relatively low mileage, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of age‑related items is essential. Examine the rubber suspension bushes, control arm bushings and engine mounts for signs of cracking, loss of resilience or oil seepage, which can cause clunking noises over bumps. Inspect the under‑carriage for corrosion, particularly around the rear subframe and exhaust hangers, as standing periods can promote rust. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and, if possible, perform a load test; a ten‑year‑old battery may have reduced cranking power even with modest use. Finally, confirm that the service book contains records of time‑based fluid changes – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil – as these typically require replacement every 12‑24 months regardless of mileage. Addressing these points will give you a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.