2010 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · OV59 PXF

The dominant mechanical theme across this Audi A5's MOT record is a pattern of brake and underbody corrosion advisories that have surfaced repeatedly since 2024, with the most recent test on 8 January 2026 confirming a pass but also flagging central rear subframe mounting corrosion in the prescribed area. While the subframe is currently deemed not excessive, the reference to a prescribed area corrosion advisory on a sixteen-year-old vehicle warrants close physical inspection, as these zones are known to deteriorate quickly once surface oxidation becomes established. The 2026 test was not without incident: the vehicle was failed earlier the same day for an inoperative front windscreen washer and an offside front service brake excessively binding, both subsequently addressed to allow the pass to be issued. This combination of brake binding and corrosion advisories points towards a chassis that is beginning to show its age beneath the bodywork, particularly around the rear suspension architecture. With 60,863 miles recorded against a sixteen-year life, this A5 has covered roughly 3,800 miles annually, which is markedly low for the vehicle's age and suggests extended periods of standing rather than steady regular use. Such a usage profile typically accelerates deterioration of rubber components, brake caliper slide mechanisms, and underbody protective coatings, as the vehicle is exposed to moisture and road salt without the benefit of regular driving to dry these areas off. The MOT record shows continuous annual testing from 2021 through 2026 with no significant mileage gaps, indicating the vehicle has been kept on the road throughout, but the low accumulation rate reinforces the risk that seized caliper pistons, stiff brake mechanisms, and dry-rotted suspension bushes may be more advanced than the odometer alone would suggest. The 2022 advisory noting no emissions output due to a fitted limiter is unusual and may warrant clarification on the vehicle's powertrain configuration or any aftermarket modifications. Given the binding offside front brake recorded at the 2026 test, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to brake feel and operation during a test drive, specifically feeling for any pulling to one side under gentle or moderate braking, listening for clunks or grinding from the offside front corner when releasing the pedal, and checking whether the vehicle rolls freely on level ground when the handbrake is released, as a binding caliper will generate heat and may produce a faint burning smell after extended driving. With rear brake pad and disc wear advisories carried over from both 2024 and 2025 tests, inspect the discs visually for lipping, scoring, or corrosion pitting, and be prepared to factor in replacement of pads and possibly discs as an imminent cost. The central rear subframe corrosion advisory demands a physical inspection on a ramp or over a pit, looking closely at the mounting points for any flaking, structural distortion, or evidence of previous repair welding, and listening for any knocking or clonking from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces which could indicate compromised mounting integrity. Finally, verify the windscreen wiper and washer system is fully operational on both front and rear functions before purchase, as these minor items have now failed twice in two years.