2015 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · SO06 MAC

The most recent DVSA examination on 20 November 2025 returned a Pass, although two advisories were issued against both rear brake discs for wear, pitting, and scoring. While these were not deemed serious enough to warrant failure at the time, they confirm the rear braking surface is approaching the threshold where replacement becomes the next sensible course of action. Looking back over the recorded MOT history, the vehicle has passed every annual test without a single failure, which is a reassuring indicator of consistent maintenance. However, the advisory pattern does suggest gradual deterioration rather than improvement, with front tyre wear flagged in 2021 and all four tyres highlighted in 2023, followed by the brake disc observations in 2025. This is broadly consistent with a higher-mileage Audi entering the phase of its life where consumable components begin to surface more regularly. The recorded mileage of 107,801 miles across approximately eleven years equates to an annual average of around 9,800 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and suggests steady, regular use rather than prolonged standing or unusually heavy motorway accumulation. There are no obvious gaps in the mileage progression that would imply long periods of inactivity, nor are there any signs of the vehicle being driven excessively hard. That said, at this level of accumulated mileage, mechanical wear on components such as suspension bushes, coil springs, anti-roll bar links, engine mounts, and drivetrain fluids should all be considered as having undergone meaningful service life. Routine servicing at correct intervals is therefore essential, and any prospective purchase should be supported by a fully stamped service history. Given the rear brake disc advisories, a prospective buyer should carry out a careful inspection of the braking system, ideally with the wheels removed, to assess the remaining disc material thickness and confirm whether the scoring is superficial or indicative of deeper wear. On a test drive, listen for any rear brake-related symptoms such as vibration through the pedal under firm application, a pulsing sensation, or grinding noises that suggest the disc surfaces have deteriorated further since the advisory was issued. The rear calipers and sliding pins should also be examined for corrosion or seizure, a common issue on vehicles kept outdoors in UK conditions, as a binding caliper will lead to uneven pad wear and premature disc failure. A thorough brake fluid test is also worthwhile, as moisture ingress reduces boiling point and compromises stopping efficiency. Beyond the recorded advisories, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants several age-related checks that may not appear on an MOT. Inspect the tyre sidewalls carefully for perishing and cracking caused by UV exposure and calendar ageing, as tyres older than five or seven years can degrade even when tread depth remains adequate. Examine the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting brackets, flexi-joints, and silencer seams, particularly given the rear brake advisories suggest the vehicle may have been driven in varied weather conditions. Check the 12-volt battery health, as Audi electronics place considerable demand on it and batteries beyond five years often struggle in colder months. Verify that the timing belt or chain service interval has been observed according to manufacturer schedule, confirm the condition and replacement date of the coolant, transmission fluid if applicable, and the most recent oil change, and finally check for any oil seepage from the sump, valve cover gasket, or turbocharger pipework that could indicate underlying gasket degradation typical of this generation of Audi.