2016 Audi A5 1.8L Petrol · SS16 MBF

The most recent DVSA examination conducted on 29 May 2026 records a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded, representing a positive position for any prospective purchaser. Reviewing the broader history, the vehicle has demonstrated a generally stable and well-maintained MOT profile, having passed every test presented over the last decade without any failures. The only minor advisory raised in 2025 related to a nearside front wiper blade defect, a routine consumable item. Prior to that, a pair of advisories were issued in February 2023 concerning wear to the lower suspension arm pins or bushes on both front sides, and earlier entries in 2021 and 2019 addressed tyre wear and tyre deterioration respectively. The trajectory suggests a consistent pattern of minor wear-related advisories rather than any escalating or recurring mechanical defects, indicating the vehicle has been kept in reasonable order, though the front suspension components noted in 2023 would warrant current inspection to confirm they have not progressed. The recorded mileage of 79,092 miles on a ten-year-old vehicle equates to an annual average of approximately 7,909 miles, which sits comfortably within typical usage parameters for a car of this age. The recorded MOT entries demonstrate steady and progressive accumulation, with no significant gaps or implausibly low readings between consecutive tests. This regular usage pattern is mechanically beneficial, as it indicates the vehicle has been driven consistently rather than left standing for extended periods, thereby reducing the likelihood of certain age-related concerns such as seized brake calipers, severe brake disc corrosion, or deterioration of internal engine and gearbox components from inactivity. The mileage is consistent with what one would expect of a well-used but not excessively worked premium coupe. Given the 2023 advisories concerning both nearside and offside front lower suspension arm pins or bushes, particular attention should be directed to the front suspension geometry during any pre-purchase inspection. These components should be physically examined for renewed or advanced wear, with the vehicle raised on a ramp if possible to allow clear visual access. On a road test, the buyer should listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the front end, particularly when traversing speed humps, uneven road surfaces, or during sharp low-speed direction changes. Any vagueness in the steering response, irregular tracking, or uneven front tyre wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges, would suggest the bushes have deteriorated further and require replacement. The original 2023 advisory stated the wear was not resulting in excessive movement, so the components were serviceable at that point, but given three years have elapsed since, further degradation is plausible and the cost of replacement lower control arm assemblies or bushes should be factored into purchase negotiations. Beyond the suspension concerns, the advisory history relating to tyres in 2021 and 2019, combined with the calendar age of the vehicle, necessitates a thorough inspection of the current tyres. Even if the tread depth appears legally compliant, the buyer should examine the sidewalls and tread face for any signs of perishing, cracking, or dry rot, as rubber compounds degrade with age regardless of mileage. Date of manufacture stamps should be checked to ensure tyres are not excessively old. Given the vehicle's ten-year standing, it is also prudent to verify the condition of the 12-volt battery, as these typically require replacement every five to six years, and to confirm the service history includes time-based replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox oil, all of which degrade irrespective of use. A brake test from cold should be conducted to check for pulling to one side, which could indicate a binding caliper, and the discs visually inspected for any lipping or excessive corrosion, particularly given the relatively modest mileage which can sometimes lead to surface corrosion accumulation.