2012 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · MS55 JWS

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a pattern of reactive repairs rather than preventative care. While the most recent test in November 2025 at 145,708 miles resulted in a pass, it followed a failure just one day prior. The mechanical trend shows a stable but persistent issue with suspension components and exhaust leaks that have repeatedly appeared across multiple testing cycles, suggesting that the owner only addresses faults once they reach the MOT failure threshold rather than during routine service intervals. At 145,708 miles over 14 years, the Q5 averages approximately 10,400 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for a premium SUV of this age. The data shows consistent annual accumulation, with roughly 4,200 miles driven between the 2023 and 2024 tests, and another 4,146 miles between the 2024 and 2025 tests. This regularity suggests the vehicle is used consistently, though the high mileage places significant stress on the heavy-duty suspension and drivetrain components. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension geometry, as the record repeatedly flags worn control arm bushes and pins. The tester noted excessive wear on the nearside front lower arm in November 2025, while the nearside upper arm was flagged for wear in the subsequent pass. The previous failure regarding a split nearside front CV boot also indicates a risk of premature driveshaft damage if the replacement was not of high quality or if the joint is already showing signs of grease loss. The central exhaust leak has been a recurring advisory since at least 2024, indicating a persistent gasket or manifold issue that has not been fully rectified. Additionally, the frequent mention of tyres reaching the legal limit on multiple axles simultaneously suggests a history of neglect regarding basic consumable maintenance. The buyer should verify the current condition of all four tyres and inspect the undertrays for secure mounting or corrosion, as these were noted as points of concern in the last two tests.