2009 Audi S5 4.2L Petrol · PK09 PRV

The vehicle successfully passed its most recent official DVSA MOT test on 7th May 2025 with a clean outcome and no defects or advisories recorded. Evaluating the historical trend reveals an improving maintenance trajectory following intermittent component failures in previous years. The record highlights notable failures in 2021 for snapped front coil springs and headlamp defects, alongside suspension bush advisories in 2024. However, the clear outcome of the 2025 inspection demonstrates that these historical issues were addressed, suggesting an attentive approach to upkeep by the current owner in rectifying flagged mechanical faults. At approximately 17 years old with a recorded odometer reading of 74,395 miles, this Audi S5 has covered a remarkably low average of around 4,376 miles per year. While low mileage generally reduces overall wear on high-stress drivetrain components and cabin materials, it frequently introduces mechanical vulnerabilities associated with prolonged periods of inactivity or short-trip driving cycles. Vehicles operated in this manner can suffer from static deterioration, where component life is dictated more by calendar age, moisture accumulation, and rubber degradation than by operational mileage wear. When evaluating the vehicle on a test drive, prospective buyers must pay close attention to the front suspension architecture, which has a documented history of spring failure and lower arm bush wear. Listen for distinct metallic knocking, heavy clonking, or squeaking noises when traversing speed bumps, coarse road surfaces, or during full-lock steering maneuvers. Check for steering wheel shimmy or excessive body movement under braking, which points to lingering play in the front control arm bushes or tired dampers. Furthermore, as the lighting system has caused multiple test rejections, confirm that the headlamps switch on reliably, auto-levelling mechanisms function correctly, and the beam height provides a clear, correct cut-off. Beyond the specific MOT history, this vehicle's age and low usage profile necessitate a thorough physical evaluation for standing wear. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall perishing, rubber cracking, and age stamps, as tyres on low-mileage vehicles often age out long before their tread depletes. Inspect the brake discs for deep corrosion, lip wear, and surface pitting, and ensure the brake calipers release freely without binding after coming to a complete stop. Verify the health and voltage of the 12V battery, as infrequent usage rapidly degrades battery cells. Finally, scrutinize the service history to confirm that essential fluids including engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and Quattro differential or gearbox oils have been renewed on a strict calendar-based schedule rather than relying solely on mileage intervals.