2014 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · DN64 LRZ

The most recent MOT, carried out on 3 November 2025, was passed but returned a number of advisories covering front lower and rear outer suspension arm pins or bushes, slight play in both front anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joints and rear tyre wear close to the legal limit. Over the last eight years the pattern has shifted from clean passes in 2017‑2019 to a growing list of wear‑related advisories and a front‑oil‑leak note in 2024, indicating that the vehicle’s condition is gradually deteriorating rather than improving. At 101 149 miles the car averages roughly 8 400 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope for a 2014 model. There are no obvious spikes or long periods of inactivity evident from the recorded mileage, suggesting the wear observed is more a function of age and normal wear rather than accelerated mileage accumulation. Nevertheless, the cumulative distance means that suspension components, brake wear items and tyre rubber will be approaching the end of their typical service lives. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the suspension and steering assemblies that have been flagged repeatedly. Inspect the front lower and rear outer arm bushes and pins for any looseness, cracking or excessive play; a worn bush will manifest as clunking or vague steering feel when negotiating bumps or cornering. The slight play reported in the front anti‑roll‑bar ball joints should be checked for any audible knock or wandering of the front end under load, and replacement of the joints is advisable before they develop into a safety issue. The rear tyre that was noted as close to the legal limit should be measured for tread depth and sidewall integrity; any uneven wear could point to alignment or suspension problems that need correcting. The front tyre that failed in 2018 with a structural lump must be examined for any signs of damage or bulging, and the entire tyre set should be evaluated for age‑related cracking, especially if the tyres are more than six years old. The rear brake pads were reported thin in 2024, so a visual inspection of pad thickness and disc condition is essential – thin pads will lead to reduced stopping distances and may cause disc scoring that would require resurfacing or replacement. The front oil leak, although not excessive, should be traced to its source; even a minor leak can lead to low oil level, increased engine wear or fire risk if the oil contacts hot components. Finally, the door and sill damage recorded in 2023 should be examined for proper alignment, rust ingress and correct operation of the latch and window mechanisms. Beyond the specific items flagged, the buyer should conduct a standard age‑related check‑list: verify that the 12 V battery holds charge and has no excessive sulphation, as a 12‑year‑old battery is likely nearing the end of its service life. Examine all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for correct level, colour and any signs of contamination; fluids degrade over time even without mileage and should be replaced on a calendar basis. Look for corrosion on chassis mounting points, especially around the wheel arches and under‑body where standing water may have accumulated during periods of inactivity. Ensure that the exhaust system is free of cracks or excessive rust, and that the emission control components such as the catalytic converter appear intact. A thorough test drive should reveal any abnormal noises, vibrations or pull, and the brakes should be felt firm without pulsation. Addressing the highlighted wear items and confirming the condition of age‑related components will give a clearer picture of the car’s roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it up to a reliable standard.