2014 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · OV64 JCJ

The most recent MOT, dated 5 December 2025, was passed with only a minor advisory concerning the rear registration plate, indicating that the vehicle currently satisfies the statutory safety and emissions requirements. Earlier that same month the car failed due to two major defects – a broken exhaust‑clamp sleeve on the central silencer and a split CV boot on the off‑side front inner drive‑shaft – both of which would have required remedial work before a subsequent pass. Since those failures were corrected and the vehicle has recorded clean passes in 2024, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the maintenance trend can be described as generally stable, with a recent corrective intervention that appears to have restored compliance. At 126 228 miles on a 2014 model the average annual usage works out to roughly 10 500 miles per year, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage that would suggest prolonged periods of inactivity, nor is there evidence of unusually high mileage accumulation that would accelerate wear on major components. Consequently the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension should be commensurate with a vehicle that has seen regular, moderate use rather than extreme abuse. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the areas highlighted by the MOT history. Verify that the central exhaust silencer is securely mounted and listen for any rattles, hissing or increased exhaust noise that could indicate a lingering leak or a loose clamp. Inspect the off‑side front inner CV joint boot for signs of cracking, oil leakage or contamination of the joint – a compromised boot can allow dirt ingress and lead to joint failure, which would be felt as clicking or vibration during acceleration. The rear brake pads were flagged as thin in late 2024, so a visual check of pad thickness and disc condition is advisable; any shudder, pulsation or reduced braking efficiency on the rear axle would warrant immediate replacement. The rear registration plate remains deteriorated and, while not currently a safety issue, should be replaced to avoid future legal complications. Additionally, the front windscreen damage recorded in 2019 should be re‑examined for any progression of cracks that could impair visibility. Given the car’s twelve‑year age, time‑related wear should also be inspected regardless of mileage. Examine tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening, especially if the tyres are older than six years, as per the tyre manufacturers’ recommendations. Check the 12‑volt battery for voltage drop and capacity, as batteries of this vintage often require replacement. Look for corrosion on suspension bushings, ball joints and steering rack components, and assess the condition of the brake discs for surface rust or scoring that could cause vibration. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil, coolant and brake‑fluid changes at the manufacturer‑specified intervals; fluid degradation can lead to seal failure and internal component wear even on a vehicle with moderate mileage.