2016 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · GD16 DZP

The most recent MOT inspection on 31 March 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance history indicates a period of significant neglect followed by a reactive approach to repairs. The transition from a dangerous failure in March 2025, which involved exposed tyre cords and a major shock absorber leak, to a clean pass in 2025 shows that critical safety issues were addressed. However, the 2026 advisory notes regarding multiple tyres being worn close to the legal limit or having damaged sidewalls suggest that while the vehicle is technically roadworthy, the owner is currently allowing consumables to reach the end of their service life rather than replacing them proactively. The overall trend is one of intermittent maintenance where components are often only addressed once they reach a critical or failing state. With a recorded mileage of 77,671 over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,767 miles per year. This is considered low to moderate usage for an Audi A5 of this age, suggesting it has likely been used for commuting or short-to-medium distance trips rather than heavy long-distance motorway driving. While lower annual mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can sometimes lead to other issues such as carbon buildup or more frequent brake disc corrosion due to less intense heat cycles. In this specific case, the mileage is consistent with the observed wear on tyres and suspension components, indicating a vehicle that is used regularly enough to incur standard wear but perhaps not enough to keep all components in peak condition through high-speed usage. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the suspension and tyre condition during a test drive. The history of shock absorber leaks and the recent advisories regarding tyre sidewall damage and uneven edge wear suggest potential issues with wheel alignment or suspension geometry. Listen closely for any knocking or clunking sounds from the underside when driving over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or failing dampers. Furthermore, the uneven tyre wear noted in the latest MOT can be a symptom of incorrect camber or toe settings; if the new tyres are not fitted alongside a professional four-wheel alignment, they will likely perish prematurely. Check the sidewalls of all tyres for any bulging or cracking, as the recent history shows a tendency for damage to occur on the outer walls. Regarding the braking system, the 2024 advisories for pitted and scored brake discs, alongside thinning pads, indicate that the braking components have been subject to some level of environmental corrosion or extended wear. During your test drive, perform several firm stops to check for any pedal pulsation or shuddering, which would indicate warped discs, and listen for any squealing that might suggest worn pads or binding calipers. Given the vehicle's age and moderate usage, you should also verify the service history for evidence of fluid changes, specifically brake fluid and coolant, as these degrade over time regardless of mileage. Inspect the engine bay for any signs of fresh oil or coolant leaks that might have been missed during previous inspections, and ensure the 12V battery shows no signs of age-related weakness.