2012 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · DL12 UFB

A pattern of tyre wear and rear shock absorber leakage has dominated the MOT history, with two consecutive years recording dangerous tyre failures and a major fluid leak on the nearside rear shock absorber. The 2025 failure for the off‑side front tyre tread and the serious rear shock leak were followed by an advisory for light misting in 2024, but the most recent test on 21 August 2026 passed without any defects, indicating that the identified issues have been addressed to the point of compliance. At 93,463 mi the car averages roughly 6,700 mi per year, a mileage rate that sits comfortably within normal UK usage for a fourteen‑year‑old vehicle. The MOT record shows no large gaps in testing, with annual examinations from 2022 onward, suggesting a consistent monitoring regime rather than periods of prolonged inactivity that could hide hidden deterioration. Prospective buyers should focus the inspection on the rear suspension, particularly the nearside shock absorber. Look for any external oil residue, a soft or spongy feel when applying the rear brakes, and audible clunks or excessive bounce when traversing bumps, all of which would indicate that the leak may have recurred or that the damper’s internal components are compromised. The tyre history also warrants a thorough tread depth check on all four wheels, paying special attention to the off‑side front tyre for signs of uneven wear or surface damage that could have been missed after the 2025 failure was rectified. Although no brake failures have been recorded, it remains prudent to examine the brake pads, discs and hydraulic lines for uneven wear or fluid leakage, especially given the vehicle’s age. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection that includes a road test for steering pull, suspension noises and pedal response will provide the most reliable indication of whether the earlier shock and tyre issues have been fully resolved and whether the car remains mechanically sound for continued road use.