2018 Audi Q5 3.0L Petrol · CF18 VCY

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2018 Audi Q5 recorded a passing result on 2026-07-09, with two advisories that suggest a consistent but gradual wear pattern rather than a deterioration trend. The advisories—front inner brake disc wear, pitting, or scoring without serious weakening, and rear tyre wear close to the legal limit—align with the vehicle’s age and accumulated mileage, indicating routine operational stress. Previous MOT results from 2024 onward show no critical failures, while earlier advisories in 2021 and 2023 focused on tyre edge wear and brake pad thinning, which are expected as part of normal braking system degradation. The absence of repeated severe defects or structural advisories over the past five years supports a stable maintenance profile, though the wear advisories warrant closer attention to avoid escalation before the next MOT in 2027. The recorded mileage of 62,561 miles for a vehicle aged eight years reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,820 miles per annum, which is within the typical range for a Q5 of this era. This usage level suggests a balance between active driving and periods of storage, though the lack of a clear spike in mileage over recent years could imply either consistent, lower-intensity use or minimal exposure to high-stress driving conditions. From a mechanical standpoint, the wear observed in the MOT records is consistent with moderate usage—tyre edge wear and brake pad thinning are common in vehicles that do not experience heavy daily braking or aggressive cornering. However, the absence of higher mileage or rapid wear progression does not preclude the need for proactive checks, particularly on components like the suspension and exhaust system, which may accumulate wear over time even with lower annual mileage. Given the advisories on brake discs and tyres, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system during the test drive. Listen for uneven brake pedal response, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers, and check for a pulsating or shuddering sensation when applying the brakes—this may signal disc warping or uneven pad wear. Visually inspect the brake discs for excessive pitting, scoring, or corrosion, particularly on the inner surfaces of the front discs, where the advisories were noted. The rear brake pads should also be examined for complete wear, as the advisories from 2023 suggest they are approaching the legal minimum thickness. Additionally, verify that the brake fluid level is adequate and that there are no leaks under the vehicle, as low fluid levels or contamination can exacerbate brake system issues. For the tyres, the buyer should perform a visual inspection of the sidewall for signs of perishing or cracking, which can weaken the structure and compromise safety, especially in older vehicles. Check the tread depth on all four tyres, ensuring they meet or exceed the legal minimum of 1.6mm, and look for uneven wear patterns that could indicate alignment or suspension issues. The advisories from 2021 and 2023 regarding tyre edge wear suggest the vehicle may have experienced directional instability or underinflation at some point, so confirming proper tyre pressure and alignment is essential. Beyond the MOT advisories, it is prudent to check the engine oil level and condition, as well as the coolant and transmission fluids, given the vehicle’s age. The oil should be replaced every 60,000 to 80,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, to prevent sludge formation and internal wear. The coolant should be flushed and renewed every two years or 60,000 miles, as standing fluids can degrade and corrode the engine block and hoses. Lastly, the 12-volt battery should be tested for charge capacity and corrosion on terminals, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain or sulphation over time. If the vehicle has been in storage for extended periods, a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion is also advisable, as this can affect emissions performance and structural integrity.