2012 Audi Q5 3.0L Diesel · LE11 RAF

A consistent run of clean MOT passes is the defining feature of this 2012 Audi Q5's documented history, with the most recent test on 24 January 2026 recording no defects or advisories and matching the pattern set by passes in February 2025, February 2024, August 2022, and September 2021. Across the five recorded tests, neither advisories nor failures have been logged, which suggests the structure, exhaust system, brakes, suspension, and lighting have all remained within test thresholds over an extended period. A clean advisory record on a fourteen year old vehicle is genuinely reassuring, although it should be read with the caveat that MOT testing is a minimum roadworthiness standard rather than a full mechanical health check, so component wear approaching but not exceeding failure limits can pass without being recorded. The absence of recurring flags on items such as brake pipes, coil springs, or subframe mounting points is particularly relevant for an Audi Q5 of this vintage, as these are common corrosion and wear points within the model range. The recorded mileage of 109,567 against fourteen years of age equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 7,800 miles, which sits comfortably within the typical band for a vehicle of this profile. There are no large gaps between consecutive MOT tests that would suggest the vehicle was laid up for extended periods, with the longest interval being the gap between February 2022 and the prior September 2021 test, which is consistent with normal annual or biennial testing cadence. The absence of any recorded mileage inconsistency on the test certificates means there is no evidence of clocked readings or anomalous jumps in usage. Mechanically, this steady and moderate accumulation pattern tends to be kinder to oil seals, gaskets, and timing chain tensioners than stop-start urban use would be, although the age of the vehicle means that rubber components, plastic coolant hoses, and age-related electrical items will still require scrutiny regardless of the mileage. Because the MOT history carries no advisories, the inspection focus on a physical viewing should fall on components that commonly deteriorate on a Q5 of this age but may not yet have reached a failing condition. Particular attention should be paid to the front suspension arms, anti-roll bar drop links, and the upper and lower wishbone bushes, as knocking or clonking over uneven surfaces and speed humps is a typical symptom of wear in these areas before any movement becomes visible on a ramp. The brake discs and pads should be measured for remaining friction material and any lipping on the disc edges, while the rear brake calipers should be checked for smooth release, as binding calipers on the Q5 are known to cause uneven pad wear and pulling under braking. The cooling system, including the radiator, expansion tank, and the plastic coolant pipes at the back of the engine, should be inspected for any signs of seepage or crystallised residue, and a careful look taken underneath for any oil misting from the cam chain area, which is a documented wear point on the earlier TFSI and TDI engines fitted to this generation. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or creaking from the front suspension over speed bumps and on full-lock turns, which would indicate worn drop links or anti-roll bar bushes. Feel for any vibration through the steering wheel under braking, which can point to distorted front discs, and check that the vehicle tracks straight without pulling, which would suggest uneven brake pad wear or a binding caliper. The gearbox, whether manual or the common Tiptronic automatic, should be observed for smooth changes and no flaring between ratios, and the quattro drivetrain should be tested on a slippery surface if possible to confirm that all four wheels are actively driving. With no recorded advisories or failures to act as a baseline, a pre-purchase inspection on a ramp remains highly advisable given the vehicle's age, allowing a thorough check of the subframe, exhaust mounting points, rear differential oil seal, and the condition of the underbody shielding, all of which are areas where age related deterioration can develop well before it becomes evident on the road.