2018 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · GD67 SOU

A clean and uninterrupted MOT record defines this 2018 Audi Q5, with five consecutive passes from January 2022 through to a most recent pass on 4 May 2026 and not a single advisory or defect recorded across the entire testing history. The absence of advisories is particularly noteworthy on a vehicle now entering its eighth year, as this is the period when corrosion on underbody components, suspension bush wear, and minor fluid leaks typically begin to surface on test reports. While a clean record is reassuring, it is also worth recognising that MOT testing is a minimum standards check rather than a comprehensive condition survey, so the lack of advisories should be treated as a baseline rather than a guarantee of mechanical perfection. The overall trend is one of stable roadworthiness, with no emerging patterns to suggest deterioration in any particular system. The recorded mileage of 65,529 miles over eight years equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 8,191 miles, which sits comfortably within the expected range for a mid-size premium SUV of this age. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing history and no anomalous jumps in mileage between tests that would suggest extended periods off the road or conversely sustained heavy use. This steady usage profile is mechanically favourable, as it tends to keep all seals, gaskets, and drivetrain components regularly exercised without subjecting them to the accelerated wear associated with high-mileage operation. Suspension components, tyres, and brake consumables should have worn at a predictable rate consistent with the mileage covered. Given the absence of flagged components in the MOT record, the inspection focus should shift to areas commonly affected on a Q5 of this age and mileage, even where they have not yet reached the threshold for advisory inclusion. The MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear arrangement used on this generation are known to develop play in the front lower wishbone inner bushes and rear trailing arm bushings as mileage accumulates, so particular attention should be paid to any knocking or clonking transmitted through the body over speed humps and uneven surfaces. The electromechanical power steering system should be checked for any hesitation or inconsistency around the straight-ahead position, and the quattro drivetrain should be evaluated for any vibration or binding under tight low-speed manoeuvres, which can indicate wear in the centre differential or rear transfer components. On the test drive, listen for any rumble or whine from the front wheels that might suggest early wheel bearing wear, and check for pulling under braking which could indicate a binding caliper. The brake pedal should feel firm, and the discs should not exhibit any notable judder through the steering wheel under hard stopping. Inspect the underbody visually if possible, paying particular attention to the subframe mounting points, brake pipes along the chassis rails, and the exhaust system hangers, all of which are areas where corrosion can initiate on vehicles of this vintage. Finally, verify that all electronic systems, including the infotainment, parking sensors, and four-wheel-drive display functions, are operating correctly, as these are not assessed during the MOT but are common failure points on this model as it ages.