2016 Audi A5 3.0L Petrol · JN05 LEX

A clean DVSA history defines this 2016 Audi A5, with each recorded test since 2023 returning a pass and no advisories logged at any point across the inspections listed. The most recent examination on 31 March 2026 concluded with a pass and no defects recorded, continuing a stable pattern of roadworthiness that stretches back to at least March 2023. The single failed entry on 26 February 2025 carried no recorded defect categories, which typically points to an item addressed and rectified before the subsequent pass just five days later on 03 March 2025, rather than any underlying structural or systemic concern. With no corrosion advisories, no suspension component flags, and no brake or exhaust entries on file, the mechanical story told by the MOT record is one of consistency rather than decline. Covering roughly 5,790 miles per year across its ten-year lifespan, this A5 sits well below the typical annual mileage for a vehicle of its age, which usually averages closer to eight to ten thousand miles annually. There is a notable testing gap between March 2023 and February 2025, suggesting either a period off the road with no MOT requirement or simply a lapse in presenting the vehicle for testing, both of which are worth clarifying with any seller. Such modest annual usage means wear items such as discs, pads, tyres, and drive belts will likely still have substantial service life remaining, but it also raises the familiar concerns associated with lightly used vehicles, including the potential for standing-start issues, dried rubber seals, and brake disc surface corrosion from infrequent use. The recorded mileage progression between tests appears steady rather than displaying any unusual jumps that would warrant concern about odometer accuracy. For a prospective test drive, attention should focus on the typical Audi A5 weak points even where the MOT record does not flag them. Listen for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, particularly from the lower control arm bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, and front wishbone bearings, which are known to deteriorate on this platform. Check for steering vagueness or wandering, which can indicate worn top mounts or perished subframe bushings, and feel for any vibration through the steering wheel under braking, a symptom of warped front brake discs often caused by the kind of light, infrequent use this mileage profile suggests. On start from cold, listen for any timing chain rattle from the right-hand bank of the engine, a known concern on the earlier TFSI units, and watch the exhaust for any haze of blue smoke on cold overrun that could point to valve guide wear. A thorough underbody inspection is essential before purchase, particularly around the front subframe mounting points, suspension turret areas, and rear axle components, as corrosion in these zones is common on A5s of this generation even when not yet flagged at MOT. Inspect all four brake discs for lipping and surface pitting, and check that the handbrake holds firmly on an incline, as rear caliper mechanisms can seize when used infrequently. Verify the operation of all electronic systems, including the MMI infotainment, climate control, electric handbrake, and any optional xenon or LED headlamp self-levelling functions, as repair costs on these can be substantial. Finally, request evidence of recent servicing covering oil, filter, brake fluid, and coolant, and confirm the timing chain service interval status where applicable, as the clean MOT record should be viewed alongside a complete maintenance history to ensure this A5 remains the sound mechanical proposition the test results currently suggest.