2014 Audi A5 3.0L Diesel · P28 ANK

The 2014 AUDI A5 presents a roadworthiness profile characterised by recurring mechanical failures centred on the exhaust system and front suspension linkages, with the most recent test on 2026-09-10 concluding in failure due to a corroded central exhaust sleeve. This failure builds upon a pattern established in July 2025 when the central exhaust mounting clamp was previously found defective, and earlier in 2025 major faults were recorded for excessively worn front lower and upper suspension arms on both front and rear ends. The progression from advisory-level concerns to major component failures across successive MOTs indicates an escalating mechanical problem that has persisted through multiple test cycles rather than representing a single incident. The overall trajectory is one of deteriorating reliability rather than steady improvement, with each subsequent test revealing deeper or more severe issues than the last. The vehicle's mileage of 136,003 miles accumulated over 12 years results in an average annual consumption of approximately 11,333 miles, which falls within the normal range for its age and class. There are no significant mileage gaps between the recorded tests, with the last two occurring in July 2025 and September 2026 only nine months apart, suggesting the car remained actively used throughout this period. The proximity of these two failures within such a short timeframe indicates that the underlying defects were not adequately addressed between them, pointing to either inadequate maintenance or inherent design weaknesses that require prompt attention. The gradual build-up of wear evident in the repeated failure of the same systems supports a picture of cumulative deterioration rather than a sudden breakdown. Specific component failures demand particular scrutiny during any test drive. The central exhaust sleeve corrosion, now confirmed as a failure in the September 2026 MOT, typically manifests as a loss of engine power, increased exhaust noise, and potentially harmful emissions that can become audible or visible over the vehicle's operation. When driving, the buyer should listen for uncharacteristic rattling or hissing sounds coming from the rear of the vehicle, particularly when accelerating or at idle, and observe whether there is any alteration in engine behaviour compared to previous runs. Regarding the suspension, the multiple major faults involving front lower and upper arms on both sides suggest progressive wear of bushings and pins that can produce distinct symptoms. Expect to hear knocking or thumping noises when travelling over bumps, notice uneven wheel travel or body roll that does not self-correct, and experience possible steering vagueness or reduced responsiveness, especially at higher speeds or when navigating potholed roads. Beyond the exhaust and suspension systems, the minor nearside windscreen crack recorded in February 2024 and the nearside tyre wear near the legal limit noted in 2022 represent additional considerations that should not be dismissed. The cracked windscreen, while not immediately hazardous, compromises forward visibility and should be inspected for water leakage or structural integrity before purchase. Similarly, the tyre wear pattern indicates that the vehicle may have been driven predominantly on one side or in conditions that accelerated tread degradation, potentially masking other subsurface issues. Given the history of repeated failures in key mechanical areas, a pre-purchase inspection focusing specifically on the exhaust system integrity, the full extent of the suspension arm bushings and pins, and the condition of the repaired windscreen elements is essential to determine whether the vehicle requires substantial repair work to meet safety standards.