2019 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · HF69 THG

A persistent leak from the offside front shock absorber defines the recent mechanical history of this vehicle, appearing as an advisory across three consecutive tests including the most recent pass on 2026-04-09. This recurring oil misting suggests a slow degradation of the damper seal that has remained unresolved for over a year. The record also shows a dangerous failure in April 2025 caused by a structural failure in the nearside rear tyre, though the vehicle was presented and passed a retest three days later. The recorded mileage of 53,774 miles is typical for a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 7,682 miles per year. This consistent usage pattern suggests the vehicle has avoided the risks associated with prolonged standing, such as perished seals, while also avoiding the accelerated wear on drivetrain components often seen in high-mileage examples. The testing intervals have been regular, with no significant gaps in the roadworthiness record. Attention should be directed to the offside front suspension during the physical inspection. A shock absorber with oil misting may eventually lead to reduced damping efficiency; during a test drive, listen for knocking sounds over uneven surfaces and feel for excessive oscillation or a bouncy sensation when braking or cornering. Confirm whether the shock absorber has been replaced since the April 2026 test, as the advisory has remained on the record for several cycles. The 2023 record flagged thinning brake pads both front and rear, as well as uneven wear on the offside front inner tyre. While these may have been addressed, it is necessary to verify the current remaining thickness of the brake pads and inspect the inner tyre treads for signs of misalignment or incorrect camber. Ensure the steering is centered and there is no pull to one side during straight-line driving, which would correlate with the previously noted edge wear.