2017 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · HV17 AAX

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 4 August 2023, following a failure the previous day. While the immediate rectification of a fractured offside rear coil spring and a dangerous nearside front tyre bulge indicates a willingness to address safety-critical faults, the overall maintenance trend is now concerning. There is a significant gap in the official testing record between August 2023 and the current date in September 2026, suggesting the vehicle may have been stationary or left untested for an extended period, which negatively impacts the certainty of its current roadworthiness. With a recorded mileage of 70,587 miles over approximately nine years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,843 miles per year. This represents a typical usage profile for an Audi Q5, suggesting that the drivetrain and interior components should exhibit normal wear and tear. However, the lack of recent MOT data means this mileage may have remained static for several years, shifting the mechanical risk from wear-based degradation to age-based deterioration caused by prolonged inactivity. Given the likely period of standing, a physical inspection must prioritise the condition of the rubber components and braking system. Check all tyre sidewalls for perishing, hairline cracking, or flat spots, as tyres can degrade internally even if the tread depth remains legal. The braking system requires scrutiny for binding calipers and heavy surface corrosion on the brake discs, which can lead to shuddering or reduced stopping efficiency. The 12V battery is likely to be depleted or failed if not maintained on a trickle charger, and the engine oil and coolant should be inspected for signs of degradation or contamination due to calendar-based breakdown. Regarding the specific history of suspension failure, ensure that the remaining coil springs and suspension bushes are inspected for similar fractures or perished rubber. During a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks over uneven surfaces, which would indicate further suspension wear. Additionally, verify the service history to ensure that timing belts or other interval-based maintenance items have been addressed, as these components degrade by age regardless of the mileage covered. A full professional mechanical inspection is strongly advised to ensure the vehicle is safe for road use after its apparent hiatus from official testing.