2009 Audi A5 2.7L Diesel · D15 EAB

Consistent roadworthiness has been the defining characteristic of this Audi A5, which successfully achieved a clean pass on 14 July 2026. The vehicle has demonstrated a stable history of compliance, with the only notable interruptions being minor lighting defects recorded in 2022 and 2024. While the record shows a period of suspension-related advisories in 2019, the subsequent years of testing have remained free of recorded defects, suggesting that the mechanical components identified at that time were addressed. Accumulating 170,017 miles over a seventeen-year lifespan results in an average annual usage of approximately 10,000 miles, which is consistent with typical heavy-duty cycles for this class of vehicle. This steady accumulation indicates that the car has been kept in regular operation rather than remaining stationary for extended periods, which generally mitigates the risks associated with long-term storage such as seized calipers or fuel system degradation. However, at this mileage threshold, the drivetrain and chassis components have reached a stage where significant wear is expected, regardless of the absence of recent MOT failures. Given the 2019 advisories regarding play in the upper suspension arm ball joints, a prospective buyer should pay close attention to the front end during a test drive. Listen specifically for any metallic knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces, speed bumps, or potholes, as these are primary indicators of worn suspension bushings or ball joints. Furthermore, check for any vagueness in the steering or a tendency for the vehicle to pull to one side under braking, which could signify that the suspension geometry has been compromised by high-mileage wear on the multi-link setup. Beyond the suspension, the high mileage necessitates a thorough inspection of the engine bay and undercarriage for signs of oil misting or leaks, particularly around the turbocharger and rocker cover gaskets, which are common areas for degradation on this engine platform. While the MOT history does not flag structural corrosion, the age of the vehicle warrants a visual check of the brake lines and subframe mounting points for surface oxidation. During the test drive, ensure the transmission engages gears smoothly without hesitation or judder, as the high mileage places significant demand on the clutch or automatic gearbox components, which may not be fully captured by the annual roadworthiness inspection.