2017 Audi A5 3.0L Petrol · RO53 NMB

The most recent DVSA examination dated 2 October 2025 returned a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, indicating the vehicle was presented in a sound roadworthy condition at that test. Looking back across the recorded MOT history, the pattern is one of generally stable maintenance rather than deterioration. Advisories have been sporadic and have not escalated into recurring failures. The most significant event was a Major failure on 27 September 2021 for rear brake pads worn down to the wear indicator, which was rectified in time for a same-day pass. Prior to that, a rear brake pad advisory in October 2020 pointed toward an item that was monitored and subsequently replaced, suggesting reasonable ongoing attention to braking consumables. The advisory cluster in October 2022 and October 2023, covering thinning pads and slight disc scoring, did not reappear in the 2024 or 2025 tests, which implies those concerns were addressed during routine servicing. Overall, the trend is one of a vehicle being kept within acceptable mechanical condition, and the absence of any structural, suspension, or corrosion advisories is a positive indicator for a nine-year-old Audi. With a recorded 63,497 miles over approximately nine years, the annual mileage is around 7,055 miles, which is close to the typical UK average for a car of this age and not suggestive of either excessive use or prolonged standing. There are no obvious extended gaps in the MOT sequence, with tests consistently recorded between 2020 and 2025, indicating the vehicle has remained in regular use and on the road throughout this period. This pattern is mechanically favourable because regular running helps prevent issues associated with standing, such as brake disc corrosion, fluid degradation, and premature deterioration of rubber components. The mileage is not high enough to raise immediate concerns over major drivetrain wear on the engine, transmission, or turbocharger, though as with any Audi of this era, the timing chain, oil consumption, and dual-clutch or automatic transmission behaviour remain age-relevant considerations. On balance, the usage profile is well-matched to the vehicle's age and supports a broadly favourable view of mechanical condition. Given that the most recent advisories relate to front brake pads and front brake discs in 2022 and 2023, these items should form a key part of any pre-purchase inspection. Brake pads on a vehicle of this age and mileage will typically have been replaced at least once since 2023, and it is worth confirming with the seller what work has been carried out and whether the front discs were machined or replaced at the same time as the pads. On a test drive, listen for any brake shudder under firm pedal pressure, which could indicate disc run-out or uneven pad bedding, and watch for the vehicle pulling to one side under braking, which may suggest a binding caliper. The tyres also warrant close inspection; an advisory in October 2022 noted slight damage and perishing on the nearside front inner sidewall. Tyres fitted in 2022 are likely approaching replacement now, and sidewall cracking, bulges, or age-related perishing should be checked visually on all four corners regardless of tread depth, as rubber degrades with time irrespective of mileage. Beyond the recorded advisories, a prospective buyer should carry out age-appropriate checks consistent with a 2017 vehicle approaching ten years of service. The 12V battery is likely nearing the end of its service life, and a weak or slow-cranking start, flickering dashboard lights, or the need to reset infotainment settings frequently can all indicate battery degradation. Brake fluid and coolant should have been changed on a time basis rather than mileage, and confirmation of these services through the service book is advisable, as neglected coolant can lead to internal corrosion within the cooling system. Under the bonnet, inspect all rubber hoses and drive belts for surface cracking, and check the area beneath the vehicle for any signs of oil or coolant residue, particularly around the sump, cam chain cover, and coolant pipework which is a known weak point on certain Audi petrol engines of this era. Finally, verify that the cam belt or timing chain service interval has been observed, that the instrument cluster functions correctly without warning lamps, and that the air conditioning system delivers cold air consistently, as compressor and condenser issues are common on vehicles of this age. A thorough road test on varied road surfaces will help confirm the absence of suspension knocks or knocks from worn anti-roll bar bushes, which would be expected to surface on MOT advisories within the next test cycle.