2010 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · OV10 AAK

The most recent MOT test on the 2010 Audi A5 was conducted on 2025-06-07, resulting in a passing outcome with three advisories that do not compromise road safety or structural integrity. The overall maintenance trend over the past three years is stable, with no repeated failures beyond the expected wear-related advisories. The vehicle has passed two MOTs since the last failure in 2023, indicating consistent compliance with roadworthiness standards, though the recurring brake disc wear and tyre perishing advisories suggest ongoing but manageable maintenance needs. The presence of a registration plate lamp inoperative in 2024-05-23 is a minor but critical advisory that should be addressed promptly to avoid future MOT failures. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 117,187 miles at 16 years old represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,324 miles per year, which aligns with typical light-to-moderate use for its age. The mileage distribution does not show extreme gaps or rapid accumulation, though the vehicle’s age and mileage do warrant heightened attention to wear-intensive components. Higher mileage in this context increases the likelihood of cumulative stress on brakes, tyres, suspension, and drivetrain elements, particularly given the recurring advisories on brake discs and tyre condition. The absence of significant mileage spikes suggests the owner may have operated the vehicle conservatively, but this also raises concerns about prolonged periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate issues like corrosion, fluid degradation, and standing-related wear. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent concerns stem from the recurring brake disc wear and tyre perishing advisories. The worn, pitted, or scored brake discs on all four wheels indicate that the braking system has undergone significant use, and further wear could lead to reduced stopping performance or even failure if not addressed. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a grinding or squealing noise from the discs, or a vibration or shudder through the steering wheel or seat, which may signal warping or uneven wear. Inspect the brake fluid level and condition—low or dark fluid suggests contamination or leakage—and check for brake fluid leaks under the vehicle. Additionally, replace the brake discs and pads as a set if they are beyond the recommended wear limits, typically when the disc thickness is reduced by more than 2mm or the pad lining is worn to the backing plate. Regarding the tyres, the advisories highlight areas of cracking or perishing, particularly on the offside front tyre, and the nearside rear tyre being worn close to the legal limit. Tyre perishing can compromise grip and safety, especially in wet or adverse conditions, and cracks may indicate underlying structural weakness. Inspect the tyres for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear patterns, and measure the tread depth with a gauge—any tyre with less than 3mm tread should be replaced immediately. On the test drive, watch for uneven tyre wear, which may indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressure. The registration plate lamp inoperative advisory is a straightforward electrical issue; test the lamp function by turning on the ignition and checking the headlight circuit, or replace the faulty bulb if the issue persists. For the structural and corrosion advisories noted in the MOT, focus on the rear sub-frame and vehicle structure, which may require professional inspection for signs of deeper corrosion or weakened joints. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, check the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing from age, as this can compromise their integrity over time. Verify the service history for fluid changes, particularly brake fluid, coolant, and oil, as these should be replaced at 60,000–100,000 miles or every 5 years, whichever comes first, to prevent degradation from standing or lack of use.