2010 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · R22 BAF

The vehicle's most recent MOT test on 10 June 2026 resulted in a Pass with no defects recorded, which on the surface appears reassuring. However, it is critical to note that this pass followed just two days after a Fail on 8 June 2026, which carried four Major defects relating to excessively worn front suspension arm pins or bushes across both nearside and offside, front and rear arm positions, alongside a Dangerous failure for a nearside rear tyre whose tread pattern was no longer visible over the whole tread area. This indicates that substantive suspension and tyre remedial work was carried out between the two tests to achieve the pass. Reviewing the wider MOT history reveals a clear pattern of progressive suspension wear, with advisories recorded in 2025 and 2024 for worn front suspension arm bushes and a slight ball joint play, suggesting these components had been deteriorating over several years before reaching the failure threshold. The 2023 test also noted a corroded rear sub-frame, and recurring brake pad wear advisories in 2022 and 2020 indicate that consumable replacement has been ongoing. Overall, while the current pass is legitimate, the maintenance trend over recent years suggests an ageing vehicle requiring increasing attention to suspension and undercarriage components rather than one in stable mechanical condition. With approximately 98,167 miles recorded against a 2010 registration, the Q5 has covered roughly 6,135 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age. The mileage between annual MOT tests from 2020 through 2026 appears consistent, indicating regular use rather than long periods of standing. This is mechanically beneficial, as moderate regular use tends to discourage issues such as brake caliper seizure, corrosion of brake discs, and degradation of seals and fluids that can occur with prolonged inactivity. However, at this cumulative mileage, the engine, gearbox, transfer box, and differential units are approaching the upper end of expected service life, and wear-related faults on turbocharger, dual-clutch or automatic gearbox mechatronics, and quattro drivetrain components become more probable. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the suspension system, given the recent Major failures on all four front arm positions. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed bumps, uneven road surfaces, and during full steering lock manoeuvres, as these are classic symptoms of worn control arm bushes and ball joints. Inspect the nearside and offside front inner and outer suspension arms for any splits, perishing, or play in the rubber bushings, and check that the tyres wear evenly across the full tread width, as uneven wear often points to alignment or suspension geometry issues stemming from worn components. The dangerous nearside rear tyre failure also warrants verifying the age and condition of all four tyres; even new replacements can mask alignment issues that caused the original uneven wear, so a four-wheel alignment check is strongly advisable. Beyond the documented history, several age-related inspections should be carried out. Given the 2023 advisory regarding rear sub-frame corrosion, the underside of the vehicle should be examined on a ramp for any worsening corrosion, particularly around mounting points, suspension turrets, and the exhaust system. Brake discs should be inspected for lipping, corrosion, and smooth binding, especially given that the vehicle has likely stood between MOTs and the handbrake mechanism may have corroded. Check the condition of the 12V battery, as original units rarely last beyond eight to ten years, and verify when the brake fluid, coolant, and automatic gearbox or Haldex transfer box oil were last replaced, as these degrade on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Finally, request evidence of the recent suspension repair work to confirm whether premium quality bushes and arms were fitted, and ensure the service book is fully stamped to confirm regular maintenance has been carried out throughout the vehicle's life.