2012 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · FD62 NUB

The 2.0-litre TDi diesel should return around 40-47 mpg on a mixed run according to Audi's official figures, though real-world economy in a Q5 of this age and mileage is more likely 32-38 mpg depending on driving style and terrain. Road tax sits in a higher bracket for vehicles registered between 2012-2017, so expect around £165-£200 per year depending on the exact CO2 band. Insurance for a 2012 Q5 in the 2.0 TDi guise typically falls into group 28-32, putting annual premiums in the £500-£800 region for most drivers with a few years of no-claims bonus.

Maintenance costs are where this Q5 will pinch — Audi parts and specialist labour are not cheap, and a major service including cambelt, water pump, oil, filters and brake fluid could easily run £700-£1,000 at an independent specialist. Allow £800-£1,200 per year for combined fuel, tax, insurance and routine maintenance based on the mileage profile shown. The 20-inch wheels fitted to this example mean premium tyres are pricier than the standard 18-inch fitment, adding to long-term costs. If quattro components such as the rear differential or transfer box ever need attention, four-figure repair bills are entirely realistic.

Start with the tyres — this Q5 is wearing 255/45 ZR 20 105W XL rubber, which was flagged as worn close to the legal limit at the latest MOT. Inspect the DOT date codes on all four tyres (look for a four-digit code on the sidewall) to ensure none are over six years old, as old tyres can perish and bulge even without obvious wear. The October 2024 failure for a structural tyre bulge on the offside rear is a yellow flag — check the spare wheel carrier area and the rear inner wheel arches for any signs of impact damage that could have caused the original failure. The model-level data highlights drive shaft joints, suspension arms and windscreen washer issues as the top failure categories for the Q5, so pay particular attention to clicking noises on full lock (drive shaft CV joints), knocking from the front suspension over bumps, and ensure all washer jets function correctly.

Beyond the MOT record, inspect the engine bay for any oil residue around the cam chain cover, turbo inlet pipes and injector seals — these are weak points on the 2.0 TDi. Check the EGR valve and intake manifold for sooting, which suggests short urban journeys that clog the system. On the interior, test all four electric windows, the climate control (common failure point), the MMI infotainment system for frozen screens, and ensure the quattro system engages smoothly if there's a chance to test it on a slippery surface. Finally, a thorough underside inspection on a ramp is highly recommended given the mileage — look for corrosion on the subframes, exhaust hangers, and any signs of fluid leaks from the transfer box or rear differential, as quattro repairs are disproportionately expensive.