2010 Audi A5 1.7L Diesel · RRZ 8016

The most recent MOT test on the 2010 Audi A5 occurred on 2025-11-10, resulting in a clean pass with no recorded defects. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that warrant careful consideration. While the past two years have shown two failed tests—both in October 2024—with major failures on the nearside rear coil spring and the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, the intervening MOTs in 2023 and 2025 passed without defects. This suggests that while the vehicle has faced significant mechanical wear, the critical failures may have been addressed or mitigated since the last inspection, though the underlying wear progression remains a concern. The presence of multiple advisories—such as under trays, tyre underinflation, and insecure exhaust heat shields—indicates ongoing or neglected maintenance issues that could escalate if not addressed promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 169,478 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 10,592 miles per year, which is typical for a 16-year-old car driven in mixed conditions. However, the MOT history suggests periods of either higher-than-average wear or prolonged inactivity, as the two failed tests in October 2024 occurred just months apart, potentially indicating either aggressive driving or extended standing with associated corrosion and fluid degradation. The nearside rear coil spring failure is particularly critical, as coil springs are designed to withstand significant load cycles, and a fracture at this stage typically signals either pre-existing weakness or excessive stress from either poor alignment, excessive load, or previous damage. The suspension arm ball joint failure, meanwhile, is a recurring issue that often stems from prolonged exposure to road debris, poor lubrication, or misalignment, leading to premature joint deterioration. Given the vehicle’s age and the recurring defects in the MOT history, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough mechanical inspection to confirm the status of the previously failed components and address any lingering issues. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the suspension, particularly clunks or rattles when driving over bumps, which may indicate loose or worn suspension arms, bushings, or coil springs. Inspect the rear suspension for uneven tyre wear, which could signal misalignment or binding in the coil spring or strut assembly. Check for excessive play in the steering or wheel alignment, as this may exacerbate suspension wear. The offside front lower suspension arm ball joint failure suggests the joint may be compromised, so verify that the joint is securely seated and free from excessive play or grinding noises when turning. Additionally, confirm that the tyre pressure is maintained at the manufacturer’s recommended levels, as underinflation was a recurring minor issue in the MOT records, contributing to uneven wear and potential structural damage. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also assess the vehicle’s overall condition for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, undercarriage, and exhaust system, where the insecure heat shield and exhaust work may have contributed to heat-related degradation. Inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing, which is common in older vehicles due to ozone exposure and prolonged storage, as this can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Verify that the 12-volt battery is fully functional, as prolonged standing can lead to battery drain or corrosion in the terminals, which may require replacement before the battery fails completely. Check the fluid levels—oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—ensuring they are topped up and free from contamination, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear on seals, bearings, and other components. Finally, review the service history for the suspension, brakes, and drivetrain to confirm that all scheduled maintenance, such as wheel alignment, brake pad replacement, and suspension bushings, has been conducted. If the service book is incomplete, the buyer should prioritise these checks to avoid costly repairs down the line.