2017 Audi A5 3.0L Petrol · KF17 FWR

A complete structural failure of the rear suspension defines the recent testing history of this 2017 Audi A5, culminating in a major MOT failure on September 9 2026 due to fractured nearside and offside rear coil springs. Although the vehicle subsequently secured a pass on September 11 2026 after those components were presumably replaced, this dual-spring breakage highlights a significant structural vulnerability in the rear axle assembly. Beyond this recent failure event, the wider MOT record shows alternating periods of advisory-free compliance and clustered wear notices, indicating that the vehicle is now entering a lifecycle phase where high-load chassis and friction components require more frequent intervention. Accumulating 67,352 miles over its nine-year lifespan translates to an average of roughly 7,484 miles per year, representing a standard annual mileage profile for this class of vehicle without extended gaps or prolonged storage periods. This steady accumulation suggests that mechanical assemblies have experienced continuous, regular use rather than the accelerated degradation associated with heavy fleet mileage or the seizure risks sometimes seen in vehicles left standing for months. However, standard usage does not exempt the car from the mechanical fatigue typical of nearly seventy thousand miles of road travel, particularly regarding supporting suspension linkages and heavy braking systems. Prospective buyers must inspect the physical condition of the newly fitted rear coil springs and verify whether they were replaced as a matching axle set to ensure balanced damping and handling characteristics. Given the history of worn and pitted brake discs alongside thinning pads noted during the 2023 and 2022 examinations, a thorough physical inspection of all four brake discs and pads is mandatory to confirm current thickness and surface integrity. During the pre-purchase test drive, listen carefully for any metallic clunks, knocks, or creaks emanating from the rear suspension over speed humps and rough tarmac, which would indicate lingering wear in the multi-link bushings, shock absorber mountings, or anti-roll bar drops links. Pay close attention to the braking performance on a safe stretch of road, ensuring the pedal feels firm without excessive travel, pulsation, or vibration, which would otherwise point towards warped or degraded friction surfaces similar to those previously flagged by testers. Check the inner and outer shoulders of all four tyres for even wear patterns, verifying that previous tyre advisories have been permanently resolved with quality replacements possessing adequate tread depth. Finally, inspect the underbody for any signs of structural corrosion along the subframe mounting points and ensure the lower undertrays noted in previous tests are securely fastened and free from oil leaks originating from the engine or transmission bays.