2008 Audi A5 4.2L Petrol · LL08 VRN

The most recent MOT test on the 2008 Audi A5, conducted on 2026-06-13, resulted in a passing grade, though it included several advisories that warrant careful attention. The overall maintenance trend over the past few years appears to be stable with minor recurring issues rather than a clear deterioration. While there were two failed MOTs in 2023—one due to severe tyre damage and another to excessive wear in the offside front suspension arm bush—these were followed by passing tests in subsequent years, suggesting the vehicle may have undergone corrective maintenance or that the wear patterns have stabilised. The presence of consistent advisories on brake disc wear, suspension bush and pin wear, and shock absorber misting indicates that the vehicle has endured significant mechanical stress over its age, but the latest inspection confirms it remains roadworthy without major failures. The recorded mileage of 118,366 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 18 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,576 miles per annum, which is typical for its age and likely reflects a combination of regular driving and periods of inactivity. Lower mileage might suggest lighter use or extended periods of storage, while higher mileage would indicate more aggressive or frequent driving, both of which accelerate wear on consumables, suspension components, and drivetrain elements. Given the vehicle’s history, the mileage does not appear unusually high for its age, but the combination of high mileage and the recurring suspension and brake advisories suggests that the wear has been cumulative rather than sudden. This implies that the suspension system, particularly the front lower arm bushings and rear shock absorbers, has experienced prolonged stress, leading to gradual degradation. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the suspension and braking systems, given the advisories and past failures. Focus on the front and rear suspension arms, checking for excessive play or binding in the bushings and pins, which could lead to uneven tyre wear, steering instability, or suspension clunks and rattles when driving over bumps. Listen for any unusual noises from the suspension during acceleration, braking, or cornering, and inspect the shock absorbers for signs of leakage or reduced damping effectiveness, which may cause body roll or a spongy ride. The brake discs, particularly the near and offside rear discs, show wear but not yet to the point of failure, so check for uneven wear patterns or signs of glazing, which could indicate brake shudder or reduced stopping power. Additionally, verify that the tyres are within legal limits and free from cuts or significant damage, as the previous MOT failures highlighted severe ply-level damage. Beyond the mechanical checks, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant attention to several other potential issues. Given the 18-year age, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity and lead to sudden failure. Check the battery for signs of corrosion around terminals, poor connections, or reduced capacity, as standing for long periods can exacerbate these issues. The central exhaust system and mounting points show minor defects, so visually inspect the exhaust for leaks or corrosion, and ensure all clamps and mounts are secure to prevent structural failure or emissions-related issues. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider checking the fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—against manufacturer specifications, as fluids degrade over time even without use. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, a comprehensive service should be scheduled within the next 12 months to address the recurring suspension and brake advisories before they escalate.