2016 Audi A5 3.0L Petrol · OV66 WPR

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-07 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included several advisories that warrant careful consideration. Over the past four years, the vehicle’s MOT history demonstrates a pattern of recurring tyre-related advisories—specifically, offside and nearside front tyres with shallow cuts and alloy wheel scratches—and a notable failure in 2022 due to rear brake pads worn to the wear indicator, alongside a failed brake performance test. While the 2023 and 2024 MOTs were clean, the persistent tyre and brake advisories suggest ongoing wear issues that may indicate either neglect or underlying mechanical wear progression. The 2020 failure for incorrect tyre fitting further highlights the importance of tyre condition and alignment, which could have contributed to the subsequent failures. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 65,610 miles at the time of assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,561 miles per year, which is typical for a 10-year-old car. This mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for its age, but the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the two-year interval between 2022 and 2024—could imply periods of prolonged standing, which often accelerates wear in components like brakes and tyres. Prolonged idling can lead to brake pad corrosion, caliper binding, and uneven tyre wear, while standing tyres may develop sidewall perishing or cracks due to oxygen exposure. Additionally, if the vehicle was driven at higher mileage rates in the past, the suspension, drivetrain, and exhaust systems may have experienced accelerated wear, though the MOT history does not explicitly flag these areas. Given the recurring tyre and brake advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the tyres for signs of uneven wear, lateral cuts, or tread depth loss beyond the MOT thresholds. Listen for uneven braking during a test drive, as binding calipers or corroded brake pads can cause shuddering or a spongy pedal feel. Inspect the rear brake pads and discs for excessive glazing or scoring, and check for fluid leaks around the brake master cylinder and calipers. The offside front brake pads being worn thin may require replacement soon, and the failed brake performance test in 2022 suggests the system may need recalibration or a full brake service. For the tyres, verify sidewall condition for cracks or perishing, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, and ensure they meet the side wall instructions to avoid future MOT failures. In addition to the above, the buyer should verify the vehicle’s service history, particularly for fluid servicing, as the 2026 MOT does not record any major service advisories. Given the age and mileage, check the coolant, brake fluid, differential, and transmission fluids for contamination or degradation, which can occur over time even without high mileage. Inspect the 12V battery for corrosion on terminals and ensure it holds a charge, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery failure from prolonged disuse. Finally, examine the suspension for signs of wear, such as clunking noises from worn suspension bushes or coil springs, and check for structural integrity around the chassis and exhaust system for rust or damage. If the vehicle has been used sparingly, a thorough inspection of the engine bay for fluid leaks and the exhaust for emissions compliance is also advisable, as these can degrade over time regardless of mileage.