2011 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · EY11 VKV

The most recent MOT on 16 June 2026 was a pass, albeit with a series of advisories – the front suspension arm pin or bush shows wear, the near‑side front drive‑shaft CV boot is severely deteriorated and the vehicle’s fitted covers prevent full visual inspection of some components. Earlier in the record the only outright failure was the missing wheel‑fixing bolt on the off‑side front wheel in February 2020; that defect has been rectified and the car has passed every test since. Overall the maintenance trend is stable: after the 2020 failure the vehicle has consistently met the minimum standards, though the recurring CV‑boot and suspension wear indicate components are approaching the end of their service life. At 108 503 mi the Q5 averages roughly 7 200 mi per year over its 15‑year lifespan, a usage pattern that sits comfortably within normal UK figures. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would suggest severe over‑use, nor long gaps that would point to prolonged storage. The mileage level is sufficient to have exercised the engine, transmission and suspension, meaning wear on consumables such as brake discs, tyres and bushings is to be expected, but it does not suggest premature failure of major drivetrain items. When you inspect the vehicle, pay particular attention to the front suspension arm and its bushings – listen for a distinct clunk when applying the brakes or driving over uneven road surfaces, and feel for any looseness when the steering wheel is rocked at a standstill. The near‑side CV boot should be examined for cracks, grease leakage or splatter on the surrounding chassis; a failing boot will eventually allow the joint to lose lubrication, leading to clicking noises on acceleration and, if left unchecked, joint collapse. The front brake disc, flagged as worn in 2020, should be measured for remaining thickness; any pulsation or shudder under hard braking would indicate thinning or warping. Verify that all wheel‑fixing bolts are present and correctly torqued, and inspect the tyre sidewalls for age‑related cracking or dry‑rot, especially on the near‑side front tyre that was previously close to the legal tread limit. Check the valve stems for corrosion or damage, as noted in 2021, and ensure the tyre pressures hold steady. Given the car’s age, a thorough time‑based inspection is essential. Examine the battery terminals and perform a load test to confirm it can still deliver adequate cranking power, as 12‑V batteries tend to lose capacity after ten years even with low mileage. Look for rust or corrosion on the chassis, suspension arms and wheel arches, especially where the vehicle’s covers have limited visual access during MOT. Confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed at regular intervals – fluid should be clear, without a burnt smell, and brake fluid should be replaced at least every two years to prevent moisture ingress. Finally, review the service book for evidence of regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and any recorded replacement of the CV boots or suspension components, as these will give you confidence that the car has been maintained proactively despite the modest advisories recorded by the DVSA.