2023 Audi A5 S Line 40 TDI Mhev Quat SA 2.0L Diesel · NG72 CDF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 13 October 2025, was passed with no recorded defects or advisories, indicating that the vehicle met all statutory safety and emissions requirements at that time. With only a single MOT entry available and it being a clean pass, the maintenance trend can be regarded as stable; there is no evidence of deteriorating components or recurring failures, though the limited history means a full picture of long‑term reliability cannot be established. At three years old the Audi A5 has logged 16,913 miles, which works out to just under 5,700 miles per annum – considerably below the UK average for a vehicle of its class. This low annual mileage suggests the car has been driven gently and may have spent periods of inactivity, which can be benign for wear‑related items but can also promote age‑related degradation such as tyre perishing, battery sulphation, and rubber seal hardening. There are no obvious mileage spikes that would point to intensive short‑term use, so the primary mechanical implication is that consumables are likely to be closer to calendar‑based wear rather than mileage‑based wear. When inspecting a low‑mileage, clean‑MOT example it is prudent to verify the condition of the tyres – check tread depth, sidewall integrity and, importantly, the DOT code to confirm they are not older than six years, as rubber can dry out and crack even with few miles. Examine the 12‑volt battery for signs of sulphation or reduced cranking power, and if possible have its state of charge and cranking amps tested; a battery that has sat for extended periods often loses capacity. Under the bodywork look for any corrosion on the chassis rails, suspension mounting points and wheel arches, and press the front and rear suspension to feel for excessive play in the bushings or worn coil‑spring mounts. Inspect the brake discs and pads for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding; even low‑usage cars can develop disc corrosion that leads to shudder on initial braking. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil, filter and coolant changes at the manufacturer‑specified intervals, and that the brake fluid has been replaced at least every two years, as fluid hygroscopy can compromise braking performance over time. Given the vehicle’s 40 TDI MHEV hybrid drivetrain, additional attention should be given to the high‑voltage battery pack and the electric motor cooling system; a diagnostic scan can reveal any stored fault codes, battery health percentages and whether the regenerative‑braking system is functioning correctly. The diesel particulate filter (DPF) should be examined for any signs of clogging – a lack of regular longer journeys can cause incomplete regeneration, leading to reduced power and potential warning lights. Verify that the emissions control software is up to date and that the on‑board diagnostics have no pending alerts. A thorough test drive should include listening for any unusual whine from the electric motor, feeling for vibration or judder during acceleration, and confirming that all indicator lights extinguish after start‑up, ensuring that both the conventional and hybrid systems are operating within their design parameters.