2016 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · ON07 NNA

Brake wear and tyre condition dominate the mechanical narrative of this 2016 Audi Q5. The latest MOT on 31 July 2026 recorded a pass after a prior failure on the same day that was triggered by a malfunctioning tyre‑pressure monitoring system; the defect was rectified and the vehicle left the test centre compliant, albeit with several advisories relating to front and rear brake discs, thin rear brake pads and a near‑side rear tyre close to the legal tread limit. Earlier failures have been limited to non‑essential items such as headlamp cleaning devices and minor body damage, while the majority of tests since 2020 have been clean, indicating a generally stable roadworthiness record punctuated by recurring wear‑related advisories. At 118,758 mi the Q5 averages roughly 11,900 mi per year, a figure that sits comfortably within typical usage for a ten‑year‑old executive SUV. The MOT chronology shows no prolonged gaps in testing, with annual examinations from 2020 onward, suggesting the mileage has been accumulated consistently rather than in short, high‑intensity bursts. This steady kilometre accrual translates to progressive wear on consumables – brake discs, pads and tyres – which is reflected in the repeated advisories, but does not, in itself, imply accelerated degradation of structural components. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the braking system. Inspect the front and rear discs for scoring, glazing or thinning beyond the advisory threshold, and verify that the rear pads retain sufficient material; a pedal that feels soft, exhibits judder or shows reduced front‑to‑rear balance may indicate disc or pad wear beyond what the MOT noted. Examine the near‑side rear tyre for tread depth and uniformity, and confirm that the TPMS indicator illuminates correctly and that each wheel registers the proper pressure; a persistent TPMS fault could mask slow leaks or uneven wear. While the child‑seat obstruction does not affect the vehicle’s mechanical integrity, it prevents a full visual check of the adult seatbelt, so request an unobstructed inspection of the belt’s webbing and retractor. The headlamp cleaning devices for both near‑side and off‑side LED/HID units were recorded as inoperative in a 2023 failure; verify that the spray nozzles now function and that the windshield washer fluid reaches the lenses, as a non‑working system can reduce night‑time visibility. Check the front bumper for the reported damage and ensure that any repairs have restored structural alignment and that mounting points are secure. Finally, assess the front and near‑side windscreens for the noted chips or cracks, confirming that they do not propagate into the driver’s line of sight or compromise the integrity of the glass. Addressing these specific items during a pre‑purchase inspection will give a clear picture of any imminent remedial work required.