2013 Audi A5 2.0L Diesel · ST62 VML

The most recent DVSA examination on 12 February 2026 resulted in a pass, although two advisories were recorded. The first noted that the offside front suspension arm pin or bush was worn but not yet resulting in excessive movement, and the second flagged light oil misting on the nearside rear shock absorber. Looking at the broader test history, the maintenance trend is showing mild but clear signs of deterioration. From 2020 through 2023, the vehicle achieved consecutive clean passes with no advisories whatsoever, suggesting sound mechanical condition during that period. The 2024 test introduced a major failure for a binding nearside front service brake, which was presumably rectified to allow the same-day pass. By 2025, advisory items began to surface in greater numbers, and the 2026 test continues that pattern, indicating that the vehicle is entering a phase where age-related wear is beginning to manifest on suspension and braking components. The trend is not yet a cause for serious concern but warrants attentive inspection and budgeting for forthcoming work. With approximately 59,587 miles recorded against a 13-year age, this Audi A5 has covered an average of roughly 4,584 miles annually, which is substantially below typical mileage for the model. This low usage figure suggests either predominantly short-trip motoring, a period of extended storage, or a combination of both. Low annual mileage does reduce wear on internal drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and gearbox, but it does carry its own set of risks. Vehicles that cover few miles frequently suffer from premature ageing of rubber components, standing corrosion on brake discs and callipers, and degradation of fluids simply through calendar ageing rather than use. The recorded mileage progression in the MOT history does not reveal large annual jumps, which supports the picture of consistent light use rather than sudden intensive driving. The advisories on the front suspension arm pin or bush deserve particular attention during any pre-purchase inspection. This component should be physically examined for play by rocking the wheel at nine and three o'clock while a second person observes the suspension arms, as the advisory wording indicates the wear is not yet beyond the MOT pass threshold but is likely progressing. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, and during full lock manoeuvres, which would confirm that the bush has worn further. Depending on the design, replacement can involve the complete control arm assembly, so obtaining a quotation is worthwhile. The nearside rear shock absorber oil misting should also be monitored; light misting often progresses to a more obvious leak and a loss of damping efficiency. Symptoms include a less settled ride over undulating roads and a tendency for the rear end to wallow or continue oscillating after a bump. Replacement in pairs on the same axle is the recommended approach. Given the low mileage, several age-related checks merit particular emphasis regardless of what the MOT records show. The tyres, despite tread depth likely being satisfactory, should be closely inspected for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber degrades with age even when little mileage is covered, and three advisories on perished tyres were recorded at the 2025 test. Brake discs should be examined for surface corrosion and the callipers operated to confirm they are releasing cleanly, given the binding episode recorded in 2024. The 12-volt battery is well beyond its typical service life and should be load-tested, as low-mileage vehicles with short journeys are particularly prone to sulphation and premature failure. All fluid conditions should be verified, including brake fluid, which is hygroscopic and requires replacement on a calendar basis regardless of mileage, along with coolant, gearbox fluid if applicable, and differential oil. Finally, verifying a complete service history with documented timing belt replacement is essential, as Audi recommended intervals are time-based as well as mileage-based, and a neglected belt on a 13-year-old vehicle represents a significant mechanical risk.