2013 Audi Q5 3.0L Petrol · SE62 XZT

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2026-02-23, but the maintenance trend shows signs of deterioration rather than improvement. The nearside and offside rear brake discs were noted as worn but not excessive, indicating they are still within legal limits, though replacement is overdue. The suspension components, particularly the front upper arm bushes and ball joint dust boots, were flagged as worn or deteriorating — a condition that, if left unaddressed, can lead to alignment issues and premature component failure. The fact that these items were flagged in consecutive tests suggests a pattern of neglect rather than a one-off oversight. Mileage progression is consistent with the vehicle’s age, at 149,407 miles over 13 years — roughly 11,500 miles annually, which is typical for a used SUV of this class. The gap between the 2026-01-20 failure and the 2026-02-23 pass is only 34 days, and the mileage only increased by two miles, indicating the car was not driven significantly between tests. This suggests the owner likely addressed the headlamp aim and washer jet issues promptly, but did not tackle the suspension or brake wear — a sign of selective maintenance rather than comprehensive care. Buyers should inspect the front suspension arms and ball joints closely, as the deteriorating dust boots and worn bushes are early indicators of potential failure. The rear brake discs, while not yet critical, are approaching the wear limit and should be monitored for noise or reduced stopping performance. The headlamp aim and washer jet issues, though cosmetic and regulatory, point to a lack of attention to lighting and visibility — a safety concern that should be rectified before purchase. Structural rust or corrosion, particularly around wheel arches and suspension mounting points, should also be checked, as these areas often suffer from long-term neglect in vehicles with this mileage. The vehicle’s condition reflects a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. While it passed its latest test, the underlying mechanical wear — especially in suspension and braking systems — suggests the next MOT may not be as lenient. A buyer should budget for immediate brake and suspension component replacement, and consider a full mechanical inspection by a specialist before committing to purchase.