2018 Audi Q5 3.0L Diesel · RO07 SON

The most recent MOT on 23 January 2026 was passed, with a single advisory noting that the rear brake disc is worn but not yet beyond the acceptable limit. Over the past three years the vehicle has shown a pattern of recurring brake‑disc advisories on both front and rear axles, a tyre‑wear advisory in 2025 and a failed test in July 2024 that was also linked to disc wear. While the latest result is a pass, the consistency of brake‑disc wear advisories indicates that the wear rate is not improving and that replacement of the discs (and likely the pads) will be required in the near term. The other items – registration‑plate deterioration and a minor seat‑belt webbing issue – have remained static and do not affect roadworthiness at present. At 107 451 miles the 2018 Audi Q5 has accumulated roughly 13 400 miles per year, well above the typical UK average of 8‑10 000 miles annually. This higher utilisation suggests accelerated wear on consumables such as brake components, tyres, suspension bushings and engine oil. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would imply long periods of inactivity, so the wear is likely to be continuous rather than the result of intermittent standing. The elevated mileage also means that age‑related degradation – for example rubber hardening in the suspension and perishing of tyre sidewalls – should be expected even if the vehicle has been driven regularly. A prospective buyer should give the brake system the greatest attention. Inspect the thickness of all four discs for scoring or pitting, and verify that the remaining depth complies with the minimum legal limit (typically 1.6 mm for discs). During a test drive listen for any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes, especially under moderate to heavy braking, and feel for any pulling to one side which could indicate uneven wear or a sticking caliper. If the discs are approaching the advisory threshold, budgeting for a full set of discs and pads within the next few thousand miles is prudent. Examine the rear tyres for tread depth, edge wear and any sidewall cracking; the 2025 advisory about the off‑side rear tyre being close to the legal limit suggests that at least one tyre may need replacement soon, and mismatched tyre wear could point to alignment or suspension issues. Beyond the brakes, verify that the registration plate is fully legible and that the seat‑belt webbing on the off‑side front seat shows no fraying that could compromise safety. Check the condition of the suspension bushings and coil springs for any creaking or uneven ride height, as high mileage can lead to premature bushing wear. Inspect the 12 V battery for corrosion and confirm that it holds charge, especially if the car has been stored for periods. Since the vehicle is eight years old, ensure that all time‑based fluids – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil – have been refreshed according to the manufacturer’s service schedule. A full service history with regular oil changes and documented brake‑disc replacements will give additional confidence in the vehicle’s mechanical integrity.