2016 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · FD16 SWX

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT test on 2 July 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, which is a positive indicator of its current roadworthy condition. However, evaluating the broader test history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that warrant careful consideration. The most recent test followed a failure on 22 June 2026, which included a dangerous offside front tyre below the legal tread limit, an advisory on the offside rear tyre being worn close to the legal limit and on its edge, and a major defect on the offside front drive shaft CV boot being split and unable to prevent dirt ingress. Looking further back, dangerous tyre defects have appeared on multiple occasions, including in May 2025 when both nearside front and offside front tyres were below 1.6mm, and in November 2021 when the offside front tyre was again below the legal limit alongside a badly distorted offside front road wheel. The trend suggests that while the vehicle can be brought to a pass standard, tyre wear and related wheel issues have been a persistent concern, indicating either aggressive driving patterns, misalignment, or neglect of routine tyre maintenance. With approximately 116,840 miles recorded over ten years, this Audi A5 has covered roughly 11,684 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and suggests consistent use rather than long periods of standing. The MOT history shows tests in 2021, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026, which aligns with a vehicle in regular daily use rather than one that has been laid up. This level of usage means the typical wear items associated with higher mileages should have been addressed, including timing belt or chain service intervals, clutch wear, turbocharger condition, and dual-clutch transmission servicing if applicable to the specific variant. The absence of long gaps in the testing record is reassuring, as vehicles that stand for extended periods commonly suffer from brake disc corrosion, perished rubber seals, and 12V battery degradation. Given the recurring tyre-related defects in the MOT history, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the condition of all four tyres and the wheels themselves. During inspection, check the sidewalls for cracking or perishing common on a ten-year-old vehicle, even if tread depth appears adequate, and verify that the wheels are true and free from distortion, particularly on the offside front where a badly damaged rim was previously recorded. A test drive should focus on any vibrations through the steering wheel which could indicate a distorted wheel or imbalanced tyre, and listen for clicking or knocking noises from the front suspension during full lock turns, which would suggest the recently replaced CV boot may have been contaminated before repair or that the joint itself has suffered premature wear. Brake pedal feel should be firm and consistent, and the vehicle should pull neither left nor right under braking, as the pitted front brake discs noted in 2021 may have progressed to causing shudder or reduced stopping efficiency if not addressed. Beyond the recorded defects, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants a thorough physical inspection of items that degrade with calendar time regardless of use. The 12V battery should be tested for its state of health, as a ten-year-old unit is likely approaching the end of its service life even if the vehicle starts reliably. Brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid if fitted should be checked for their replacement history, as these are time-sensitive services that may have been overlooked. The exhaust system, including the centre and rear sections along with mounting rubbers, is susceptible to corrosion on a vehicle of this age, particularly if used for short journeys. The suspension should be examined for worn bushes, particularly at the front lower arms and anti-roll bar linkages, and the rear shock absorbers noted as misting in 2021 should be checked for any progression to active leakage. Finally, verify the service book history to confirm that cam belt or chain, spark plugs, and oil changes have been performed at manufacturer-specified intervals, as consistent maintenance records are the best indicator of long-term mechanical reliability in a high-mileage prestige vehicle.