2015 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · OV65 BHD

The most recent DVSA examination on 13 November 2025 returned a pass, although a minor windscreen defect was recorded for a chip within the central swept area that does not currently obstruct the driver's view, alongside an advisory noting the nearside rear tyre as worn close to the legal limit on its edge. Reviewing the trajectory of recorded tests, the vehicle has achieved pass outcomes consistently since the only major failure in November 2020, which concerned an excessively worn front lower suspension arm pin or bush on the offside. The advisory pattern across subsequent years shows a recurring and worsening theme of tyre perishing, cracking, and edge wear across all four corners, indicating that rubber degradation rather than mileage-related tread loss is the dominant wear factor. The presence of a windscreen chip recorded in both 2023 and 2025 suggests an unaddressed minor impact point that a buyer should monitor for propagation, but the overall MOT trend is one of stable roadworthiness with age-driven deterioration rather than progressive mechanical neglect. The recorded mileage of 59,248 miles across an eleven-year service life equates to an annual average of approximately 5,386 miles, which is substantially below typical usage for a vehicle of this type and age. This low utilisation rate carries specific mechanical implications, particularly regarding components that degrade through calendar ageing rather than mechanical wear. The repeated tyre advisories for cracking and perishing are directly symptomatic of low-mileage use, as tyres deteriorate from UV exposure, ozone, and standing time regardless of tread depth. Similarly, brake discs and calipers on a lightly driven vehicle are susceptible to surface corrosion and binding, while the 12V battery, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid all degrade on a time basis and may require replacement on age intervals rather than mileage intervals. The owner may also have experienced extended periods of standing, which can promote moisture ingress in the drivetrain, dry-out of rubber seals, and oxidation of exhaust and underbody components. Given the recurring tyre-related advisories, a prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of all four tyres for sidewall perishing, cracking between the tread blocks, and any bulges or cuts that may have developed since the last MOT. The nearside front has been flagged repeatedly for both edge wear and cuts, suggesting either an alignment issue, a worn suspension bush allowing camber variation, or simply uneven rotation; checking the tracking and inspecting the front suspension arms and bushes for free play by rocking the wheels manually is strongly advised. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, as the 2020 advisory regarding the lower arm bush indicates a known weak point on this chassis. Brake feel should be assessed for any juddering under light application, which would indicate corroded discs, and the vehicle should be allowed to free-roll in neutral on a quiet stretch to detect any binding or pulling that would suggest seized caliper slide pins, a common issue on low-mileage vehicles. Beyond the specific advisories recorded, several age-related service items warrant verification prior to purchase. The brake fluid should be confirmed as having been renewed within the past two years, as moisture absorption reduces its boiling point and compromises braking performance under sustained use. Coolant, which on Audi vehicles is typically the long-life G12 or G13 specification, has a finite service life and should be checked for the correct formulation and age, as neglected coolant can accelerate corrosion within the cooling system and water pump. The timing belt or chain interval, depending on the specific engine fitted, must be confirmed against service records, as a missed replacement can result in catastrophic engine damage. The 12V battery should be load-tested, the exhaust system inspected for underfloor corrosion particularly around the rear silencer and mounting rubbers, and the underbody examined for any surface oxidation consistent with twelve months of standing in damp conditions. A full main dealer or specialist service history would be invaluable in confirming that mileage-related service items such as the Haldex oil change and automatic transmission fluid have been attended to within their prescribed intervals.