2014 Audi A5 3.0L Diesel · LM64 XRF

A clean and consistent MOT record is the defining feature of this 2014 Audi A5, with four consecutive passes and a single failure that left no recorded defects. The most recent test on 2 December 2025 returned a pass with no advisories, continuing a stable trend that stretches back through passes on 30 November 2024, 1 December 2023, and 7 December 2022. The lone failure on 6 December 2022 occurred just one day before the subsequent pass, strongly suggesting a minor or rectifiable issue that was addressed immediately rather than a fundamental mechanical defect. The absence of any advisories or recurring component mentions across five tests indicates that the vehicle has not displayed the sort of chronic wear patterns typically seen on Audi A5s of this age, such as persistent suspension bush deterioration, exhaust corrosion, or brake component wear. At 71,828 miles over roughly twelve years, this A5 has accumulated approximately 5,986 miles per year, which is well below average for the model and points to either genuinely light use or extended periods of inactivity. While low annual mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain and braking components, it can also bring its own concerns, particularly around seals, gaskets, and flexible items that suffer from prolonged standing rather than active use. However, the unbroken pattern of recent annual tests indicates the vehicle has been consistently in use, which helps mitigate the worst effects of long-term lay-up. Any prospective buyer should still pay attention to the condition of components that degrade with age regardless of mileage, particularly rubber boots, coolant hoses, and electrical items. Given the lack of specific advisories, the focus for a pre-purchase inspection should be on the areas commonly prone to wear on a 12-year-old A5, even when not flagged at MOT. On a test drive, listen carefully for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which could indicate wear in the wishbone bushes, drop links, or anti-roll bar mountings. The Audi A5 is known for occasional power steering rack issues, so check for any unusual noises or stiffness when turning the wheel at low speed, and feel for vagueness or looseness in the steering that might suggest worn tie rod ends. Brake feel should be firm and progressive without any judder under heavy braking, which can indicate warped front discs, and the pedal should not require excessive travel. Under the bonnet, inspect for any signs of oil seepage around the cam chain area, valve cover gasket, and turbo oil lines if fitted, as these are known weak points on the TFSI and TDI engines commonly found in this model. Coolant hoses, particularly the upper and lower radiator hoses and the expansion tank, should be inspected for any signs of brittleness or weeping, as plastic components degrade with age. The exhaust system should be checked for corrosion at the mounting rubbers and flexible joints, and a tap test on the rear silencer can reveal internal breakdown. Finally, verify that all electrical systems, including the infotainment, climate control, and central locking, function correctly, as electrical faults on this generation of A5 are not uncommon and would not necessarily be captured during an MOT test.