2016 Audi Q5 3.0L Diesel · LT16 AEK

The 2016 Audi Q5 presents a remarkably clean MOT history, with the most recent test on 17 December 2025 at 17,071 miles passing without any defects. This consistency extends back to December 2022, where the vehicle also cleared its inspection at 14,711 miles with no advisories or failures. The absence of recurring issues—such as suspension wear, brake binding, or corrosion—suggests the car has been well-maintained or stored under controlled conditions. The only anomaly is the duplicate entry for December 2023, where the same mileage (15,484) appears once as a pass and once as a fail, which may indicate a clerical error rather than a mechanical problem. Overall, the trend is stable, with no signs of deteriorating reliability. The mileage of 17,071 over roughly ten years—averaging just 1,707 miles annually—is exceptionally low for a vehicle of this age. This suggests either infrequent use, long periods of inactivity, or potentially storage rather than regular driving. The gap between December 2023 and December 2024 (a full year) shows no mileage increase, reinforcing the likelihood of extended periods off the road. Such low usage typically reduces wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension, but it also means components may not have been exercised enough to reveal latent issues. The lack of mileage accumulation raises questions about whether the car has been driven regularly or preserved in a garage. Given the pristine MOT record, a buyer should still verify a few critical areas in person. While the history shows no brake-related advisories, the rear brakes—particularly the calipers—should be checked for binding or corrosion, as these can develop silently in low-mileage vehicles. The suspension, including bushings and coil springs, should be inspected for stiffness or deterioration, as prolonged inactivity can cause seals to dry out or components to seize. Structural integrity, especially around wheel arches and underseal, is worth examining for hidden corrosion, given the car’s age and potential exposure to moisture. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions should be visually assessed for leaks or rust, as these can degrade even with minimal use. The absence of advisories or defects in the MOT history is a strong indicator of careful maintenance, but the unusually low mileage means some components may not have been stressed enough to reveal hidden weaknesses. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic would be advisable to confirm the vehicle’s condition beyond the MOT’s scope.