2018 Audi Q5 2.0L Petrol · MM18 DHC

The most recent MOT on 27 September 2025 was passed, with only an advisory that the rear brake pads are wearing thin. Over the past five years the vehicle has moved from a series of serious failures – notably a rear brake disc and pads declared dangerous in April 2022 and a tyre tread deficiency that caused a failure in September 2023 – to a pattern of advisory items only. The progression shows that the major safety‑critical faults have been addressed and the current state is stable, with wear now being the primary concern rather than outright defects. At 56,534 mi the Q5 averages just over 7,000 mi per year, which is well below the typical UK average for a vehicle of its age. The relatively low annual mileage suggests the car has not been subjected to heavy, high‑stress use, but it also raises the possibility of extended periods of inactivity. Low utilisation can be gentle on drivetrain components, yet it does not prevent age‑related deterioration of rubber, seals and batteries, and it can allow brake discs to corrode if the car sits for long stretches. When you inspect the car, give particular attention to the braking system. Examine both front and rear pads for remaining thickness – the rear pads are already thin, and the front pads were previously flagged as thin, so expect replacement soon. Feel the pedal for any sponginess, pulsation or grinding noises under moderate braking, and listen for squeal that may indicate worn discs or glazed pads. The tyre situation is critical: all four tyres were noted as close to the legal limit or showing edge wear in 2023, and there was an advisory about cracking and perishing. Even though the tread may still be above 1.6 mm, eight‑year‑old tyres can suffer from dry‑rot, sidewall cracking and loss of structural integrity, so a full tyre replacement is advisable before committing. Verify that the washer system now functions correctly and that the spray jets are not clogged, as a non‑functional washer was a dangerous failure in 2023. Beyond the immediate wear items, carry out a thorough age‑related check. Inspect the battery for signs of sulfation, test its cranking voltage and consider a load test, as an eight‑year‑old unit may be nearing the end of its service life. Look for corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches and under the rear suspension, which can develop when a vehicle sits for long periods. Examine the suspension bushings, ball joints and shock absorbers for any looseness, creaking or uneven tyre wear that could indicate deteriorating components. Finally, confirm that routine services – oil, filter, coolant and gearbox fluid changes – have been recorded in the service book at the manufacturer‑recommended intervals, and that any time‑based fluid replacements have been performed, to ensure the engine and transmission are not suffering from fluid degradation despite the modest mileage.