2013 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · EN06 LAD

The most recent MOT test on 2026-03-26 resulted in a clean pass, with no defects recorded and the vehicle’s overall maintenance history remaining stable. While there are several advisories from previous tests, none have progressed to failures, and the latest inspection reflects no deterioration in structural integrity, emissions, or operational compliance. The presence of consistent advisories—such as tyre wear close to legal limits, thin brake pads, and minor headlamp alignment issues—suggests routine wear patterns rather than systemic failures, indicating that the vehicle has been maintained within acceptable operational bounds. The absence of repeated failures or critical defects in the last three years supports a generally reliable roadworthiness profile, though buyers should be mindful of the advisories as potential areas requiring proactive attention. The 2013 Audi Q5’s recorded mileage of 88,366 miles aligns closely with its age of approximately 13 years, averaging around 6,797 miles per year—a rate that is typical for a vehicle of this class and usage profile. The mileage distribution does not suggest either unusually heavy or light usage, which would typically manifest as accelerated wear or prolonged periods of inactivity-induced corrosion. However, the advisories related to tyre wear and brake pad thickness highlight that the vehicle has undergone significant mileage, placing greater demands on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension components. Over time, this can lead to uneven tyre wear patterns, potential brake disc warping, or suspension bush degradation, all of which should be monitored during a test drive to assess for symptoms such as uneven tyre wear, pulsations in the brake pedal, or clunking noises from the suspension. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the tyres, brakes, and suspension. The advisories from previous MOTs—particularly the near-side front tyres worn close to legal limits and the thin near-side rear brake pads—indicate that the vehicle has already reached or neared the limits of these components. On a test drive, listen for signs of brake pulsation or shudder, which could signal warped discs or worn linings, and check for uneven tyre wear, which may point to misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressure. Inspect the tyres closely for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is more likely at this age and mileage, as well as for any signs of bulges or tread separation. Additionally, verify the brake system for any signs of binding calipers, corrosion on discs or pads, or fluid leaks from the master cylinder or brake lines. Beyond the advisories, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a thorough check of fluid degradation and standing corrosion risks. Given the advisories from previous years, particularly those related to tyre and brake wear, it is prudent to confirm that all fluid levels—including brake fluid, coolant, and differential/transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and not showing signs of contamination or degradation. The near-side rear brake pads being thin suggests that brake fluid should be flushed and replaced to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to corrosion and reduced braking performance. Furthermore, inspect the battery for signs of corrosion on terminals, as standing for prolonged periods can exacerbate this issue. Finally, check for any visible signs of structural integrity, such as rust around the wheel arches, undercarriage, or suspension mounts, which are common areas for corrosion in vehicles of this age. A comprehensive service history check would also be beneficial, as the advisories may reflect routine maintenance rather than neglect, but missing service stamps could indicate missed opportunities for fluid changes or component replacements.