2016 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · CU16 KYS

A recurring pattern of tyre-related issues and component wear defines the mechanical history of this Audi A5, with the most recent test on 28 October 2024 showing a pass following a failure for insufficient windscreen washer fluid. While the vehicle has cleared its most recent inspection, the records reveal a history of structural tyre issues, including a dangerous failure in April 2022 due to a sidewall tear and previous advisories regarding splitting sidewalls. The trend suggests intermittent issues with tyre management and consumable wear, alongside a recorded advisory for a bent nearside steering tie rod in March 2024. The vehicle has covered 42,498 miles over approximately ten years, which equates to an average annual usage of roughly 4,250 miles. This is significantly lower than the UK average for a vehicle of this age. While low mileage can reduce wear on high-motion components like the engine and gearbox, such infrequent use can also contribute to the tyre degradation and sidewall splitting noted in the MOT history. Mechanically, this usage profile means that while the drivetrain may have relatively low total wear, rubber components, suspension bushes, and seals may be subject to age-related hardening or degradation rather than purely mileage-based attrition. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the steering and suspension geometry during a test drive. Given the previous advisory for a bent nearside steering tie rod, it is essential to check for any pulling to one side under braking or steady acceleration, as well as any irregular vibration through the steering wheel at motorway speeds. Furthermore, the recent advisories regarding thin front brake pads and uneven tyre wear on the edges suggest a need to inspect the front axle components. Listen for any rhythmic knocking or clunking sounds when navigating uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or ball joints, and check for any unevenness in the tread pattern of the current tyres. The braking system requires a thorough physical inspection to ensure the previously noted thin pads have been adequately replaced and that the calipers are not binding. During the test drive, feel for any pedal judder or pulsations, which might indicate warped brake discs, or any sponginess in the pedal feel. Because the vehicle has experienced issues with tyre structural integrity, a close visual inspection of the sidewalls for any bulges, cracks, or signs of previous repairs is necessary to ensure the current set of tyres is fit for purpose and not showing early signs of the degradation seen in previous years.