2013 Audi A5 2.0L Petrol · OV63 WSF

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-05 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included two minor defects related to the near and offside front upper suspension arm ball joint dust covers, which are severely deteriorated. This follows a pattern of consistent MOT results over the past three years, with only one failure recorded in 2022, which involved major defects in the near and offside front suspension arm pins or bushes being excessively worn, alongside a near-failure condition in the near front tyre. The progression from that single failure to a series of advisories and minor issues in subsequent tests suggests a shift toward more manageable wear rather than a deterioration in overall roadworthiness, though the suspension arm components remain critical areas of concern. The absence of further major failures or repeated critical defects indicates a stable maintenance trend, though the vehicle’s suspension system requires closer attention to prevent potential long-term issues such as misalignment, excessive play, or premature failure of the control arms. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 82,650 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,358 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a 13-year-old car. This level of mileage does not indicate either excessive wear from heavy use or prolonged idling, which could accelerate component degradation, nor does it suggest significant gaps in operation that might lead to standing corrosion or fluid degradation. However, the presence of multiple advisories related to tyre cuts and suspension wear—particularly in the front suspension arms—suggests that the vehicle has undergone some degree of regular, moderate driving, which has contributed to the observed wear. The suspension arm pins and bushes, in particular, appear to have been subjected to consistent stress, warranting further inspection to gauge whether further deterioration is imminent or if the current wear is within acceptable limits for the vehicle’s age and usage profile. Given the recent MOT findings and the recurring advisories on the front suspension arm components, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system. Focus on the upper control arms, particularly the ball joints and bushings, checking for any signs of excessive play when the vehicle is lifted by hand at the wheel arches—this can indicate further wear or potential failure. Listen for any unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension during a test drive, especially when cornering or over bumps, as these may signal misalignment or damaged suspension elements. Additionally, verify that the front wheels are aligned correctly, as worn suspension components can lead to uneven tyre wear or steering pull, which may have already contributed to the observed tyre cuts. If the suspension arms are confirmed to be beyond their serviceable life, replacement may be necessary to prevent a future MOT failure, particularly if the vehicle is driven regularly. For the tyres, the advisories from previous MOTs highlight that the near and offside front tyres have sustained cuts that have not yet reached the ply or cords, but these are significant enough to warrant monitoring. The buyer should check the tread depth of all tyres, ensuring that the near and offside front tyres are not nearing the legal minimum, as further cuts could lead to a major failure in a subsequent MOT. Inspect the tyre sidewall for any signs of cracking or perishing, which is more likely in a vehicle of this age, even if the mileage is moderate. The rear tyres, while showing a minor cut, appear to be in better condition and should be given less attention unless the buyer is concerned about overall tyre wear patterns. As for fluids, given the vehicle’s age and the lack of a recent service history in the MOT records, it is advisable to check the coolant, brake fluid, and differential/transmission fluids for any signs of degradation or contamination, as these can degrade over time even without mileage accumulation. Finally, the battery should be tested for strength, as older vehicles can suffer from reduced cranking power due to internal corrosion or diminished capacity, which could affect performance and reliability.