2011 Audi A5 2.0L Petrol · RO61 RFZ

The latest MOT test on the 2011 Audi A5 conducted on 2026-07-02 resulted in a passing outcome, though it revealed several persistent advisories and minor defects that warrant careful consideration. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years appears relatively stable, with no repeated failures or severe issues, but the recurring advisories on suspension components and brake condition suggest ongoing wear that should not be overlooked. Notably, the front brake discs were noted as worn, pitted, or scored but not seriously weakened, indicating moderate usage and potential for further deterioration if not addressed promptly. The deterioration of the front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover and light misting in the shock absorbers further highlight areas of concern that may require attention before they escalate into more costly repairs. The recorded mileage of 87,028 miles for a vehicle this age—approximately 5,802 miles annually—is unusually low for a car of this vintage, particularly given the potential for extended periods of inactivity or light use. Such low mileage can mask underlying issues, such as standing corrosion in critical areas like the brake system, suspension linkages, or underbody components, where moisture and stagnation accelerate degradation. Conversely, if the vehicle has accumulated mileage more rapidly in the past, the suspension and drivetrain components may have experienced accelerated wear, particularly in the front suspension arms and shock absorbers, where the advisories have been consistently present. The nearside rear tyre showing wear close to the legal limit also suggests either underinflation, excessive load, or prolonged high-speed driving, which could exacerbate tyre and suspension wear patterns. As a prospective buyer, you should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s suspension and braking systems, focusing on the front lower arms and upper suspension components for signs of excessive play, binding, or corrosion. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the suspension, particularly when transitioning between rough and smooth road surfaces, as this may indicate worn or failing suspension bushes or ball joints. The brake discs should be checked for uneven wear, chattering, or signs of glazing, which could suggest binding calipers or hydraulic issues. Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for contamination or low levels, as this may indicate a failing master cylinder or brake booster, and test the braking performance for firmness and consistency across both front and rear brakes. For tyres, verify the depth of the tread across the entire circumference, ensuring no areas have worn down to the legal minimum or beyond, and check for signs of uneven wear patterns that could indicate misalignment or suspension problems. The rear tyres, in particular, should be examined for sidewall damage or cracking, as low mileage can sometimes lead to premature ageing of rubber from prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Additionally, assess the condition of the windscreen for any cracks or chips that could compromise visibility or structural integrity, and check for standing corrosion around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and underbody, which may indicate prolonged periods of inactivity. Since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider verifying the service book for any scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes, timing belt replacement, or fluid top-ups, and ensure all fluids—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid—are at the correct levels and free from contamination. Finally, test the 12V battery for a proper charge and listen for any electrical whining or clicking noises, as a failing battery or alternator could lead to poor starting or electrical system failures.