2009 Audi A5 2.0L Petrol · OY09 WXM

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Audi A5 was conducted on 2026-02-13, resulting in a failure due to critical tyre defects and a severely reduced near-side headlamp intensity, alongside persistent advisories related to tyre damage. This outcome contrasts sharply with the preceding MOTs, which were largely clean or only marked with minor advisories, indicating a deterioration in the vehicle’s roadworthiness over the past year. The pattern suggests that while the car has maintained a stable condition for much of its life, recent usage or environmental factors have exacerbated wear, particularly on the tyres and electrical components. The failure highlights a need for immediate attention to prevent further safety risks, such as reduced visibility or compromised traction from the headlamp and tyre conditions. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 104,879 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,169 miles per year, which is typical for a 17-year-old car in the UK. This rate does not suggest excessive wear from high-mileage accumulation but does imply consistent, albeit not necessarily aggressive, driving. However, the MOT failures in 2024 and 2025, particularly the severe tyre cuts and missing wheel fixing, warrant closer scrutiny of driving habits or potential neglect. The presence of a rear child seat advisory in 2023 also hints at occasional use, but the lack of service records or fluid condition checks suggests that the vehicle may not have undergone regular maintenance aligned with its age. The combination of moderate mileage and recent MOT failures underscores the importance of a thorough pre-purchase inspection to identify underlying issues before proceeding with purchase. Given the recent MOT failures, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the tyres, headlamps, and wheel fixings. The near-side front tyre cut reaching the ply or cords is a critical failure point, indicating severe tread damage that could compromise grip and stability, especially in wet or adverse conditions. Listen for unusual noises during a test drive, such as a grinding or scraping sound from the wheel hubs or suspension, which may signal loose or damaged wheel fixings. The offside rear tyre cuts and the offside rear tyre being worn close to the legal limit also demand immediate attention, as these defects can lead to hydroplaning or uneven handling. Check for fluid leaks around the wheel arches, particularly under the tyres, which could indicate failing wheel bearings or seals. Additionally, verify that the near-side headlamp is fully functional and that the light intensity is adequate for safe night driving; inspect the bulb socket for corrosion or loose connections. For the Audi A5’s age and mileage, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection focusing on structural integrity, fluid condition, and standing corrosion. Given the vehicle’s age, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise their structural integrity and safety over time. Check the brake discs for corrosion, warping, or binding calipers, as standing for prolonged periods can cause rust to form on the discs and brake pads, leading to reduced braking performance. Inspect the suspension for excessive play or clunking noises, particularly around the coil springs, suspension bushes, and control arms, which may indicate wear or damage. Test the 12V battery and starter system by attempting to start the engine and listening for unusual grinding or clicking noises, which could indicate a failing starter motor or battery. Finally, verify that all fluids—brake, coolant, differential, and transmission—are at the correct levels and free from contamination, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear on internal components. If the vehicle has not been serviced in recent years, consider requesting service records to confirm adherence to manufacturer-recommended intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid top-ups.