2018 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · OV67 LOD

The most recent DVSA test on 28 February 2026 resulted in a Pass, but four advisories were issued, which when considered against the trajectory of the 2024 and 2025 tests, points to a deteriorating rather than stable condition. While the 2022 and 2023 tests were entirely clean, the 2024 examination first flagged rear brake disc surface wear and thinning rear pads, the 2025 test repeated the rear pad wear advisory together with a rear disc wear notice and a sidewall cut, and the 2026 test has now compounded these with further rear tyre edge wear, another rear brake pad advisory, and a fresh nearside front tyre sidewall damage note. This consistent rear-end pattern across three consecutive tests indicates that the braking and tyre wear issues are progressing rather than being resolved between inspections, and any prospective buyer should regard these advisories as forthcoming maintenance items rather than minor observations. With 42,972 miles recorded over approximately eight years, the vehicle has averaged around 5,370 miles per annum, which is well below the typical mileage for a 2018 Audi Q5 and suggests either light private use, a predominantly urban environment, or extended periods of standing. Such low annual mileage has mixed mechanical implications: while major drivetrain components such as the engine, transmission and four-wheel-drive system will have experienced less mechanical wear than a higher-mileage example, prolonged standing periods accelerate degradation of rubber components, brake friction surfaces, exhaust systems, and fluids. The pattern of light use also tends to concentrate wear on a small number of components, particularly those that suffer from corrosion or seizing when not regularly exercised, and this is consistent with the recurring rear brake and tyre advisories seen in the history. Given the repeated rear brake and tyre advisories, a test drive should specifically focus on detecting any brake shudder through the pedal under light to moderate pressure, which would suggest the rear discs have now reached a serviceable wear limit, and any pulling to one side under braking that could indicate a binding or partially seized rear caliper from infrequent use. Listen for clonking or rattling noises from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, as the multi-link rear arrangement fitted to the Q5 is known for wear in the trailing arm bushes and anti-roll bar drop links, and check the rear tyres after the drive for inner-edge wear which may indicate misalignment of the rear axle. The nearside front sidewall damage noted in February 2026 should be physically inspected for any bulging, cracking or exposed cords, as sidewall damage of this nature is a reason for immediate replacement regardless of tread depth, and the new owner should budget for a full set of four tyres along with a rear brake disc and pad renewal. Beyond the recorded advisories, several age and low-mileage related items warrant close physical inspection. The vehicle will be approaching its eighth birthday, so check all four tyres carefully for perishing and sidewall cracking regardless of remaining tread depth, as age-hardened rubber can fail suddenly even on a low-mileage car. Inspect the rear brake calipers for seized slider mechanisms by attempting to push the car with the handbrake released, and verify that the electronic parking brake releases cleanly without a dragging sensation. The 12-volt battery should be load tested, as low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from premature battery failure due to insufficient charge cycles, and request evidence that the brake fluid, coolant, and automatic gearbox oil (if applicable) have been replaced on a calendar basis rather than purely by mileage. Finally, confirm a complete Audi service history with supporting invoices, ensuring that the longlife service intervals have not been excessively exceeded and that the timing chain, oil separator, and turbocharger systems on the 2.0 TFSI or 3.0 TDI engines, depending on fitment, have been inspected within the manufacturer recommended schedule.