2009 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · RV09 RNN

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Audi Q5 was conducted on 2025-12-27, resulting in a passing grade with two advisories and one minor defect. The overall maintenance trend over the past six years is relatively stable, with the vehicle passing MOTs in five consecutive tests from 2019 to 2024, aside from a single failure in 2020 due to unrelated issues—driver’s airbag inoperability and a non-functional rear passenger door lock. The recurring advisories, particularly the nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover deterioration and offside front suspension arm pin or bush wear, indicate ongoing mechanical stress in those components, which should be monitored closely to prevent further degradation or failure. These advisories suggest that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, the suspension system may require closer attention to avoid potential alignment or ride quality issues. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 168,909 miles over its 17-year lifespan represents an average annual usage of approximately 9,936 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and usage profile. Such mileage accumulation is typical for a vehicle that has been driven regularly, particularly if it has been used in mixed traffic conditions or for commuting. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps does not necessarily imply excessive wear—many older cars accumulate miles through consistent use rather than prolonged idleness. The suspension and drivetrain components, which bear the brunt of daily driving, are likely to have experienced normal wear and tear, but the advisories suggest that the suspension arms and bushings may have been subjected to more stress than average, warranting a thorough inspection. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination include the suspension system, particularly the front suspension arms and ball joints. The severely deteriorated ball joint dust cover and worn suspension arm pin or bush indicate that the vehicle may have experienced excessive movement or misalignment, leading to potential long-term damage if not addressed. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when driving over bumps or at speed, as these could signal further wear in the arms or bushings. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may reveal misalignment caused by suspension issues. The minor failure in 2020—driver’s airbag inoperability—should be confirmed as resolved, as this is a critical safety component that must function correctly at all times. Beyond the suspension, the tyre condition is a key concern, particularly given the 2021 advisory regarding the offside front tyre nearing the legal limit and worn on the edge. Tyres should be inspected for sidewall perishing, which is common in older vehicles due to exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations, potentially compromising structural integrity. Verify that all tyres meet the minimum legal tread depth and that there are no visible signs of dry rot or cracking. The rear passenger door lock failure in 2020 is a non-roadworthiness issue but could indicate a potential electrical or mechanical problem that may recur, so a thorough check of the door mechanism and wiring harness is advisable. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, the battery should be tested for strength, as older cars often struggle with cold-start reliability or parasitic drain. Additionally, check for signs of standing corrosion on the undercarriage, particularly around the wheel arches and exhaust system, as prolonged idleness can accelerate rust formation. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be checked for degradation, as fluids can break down over time even without use.