2020 Audi Q5 2.0L Petrol · T44 TAS

The most recent MOT, carried out on 12 January 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions criteria at that time. Compared with the two preceding tests, the trend is clearly improving: a 2025 advisory concerned only a child‑seat fitting that limited belt inspection, while the 2024 test highlighted tyre tread approaching the legal minimum and brake pads worn to roughly 3 mm. The absence of any defects in the latest examination suggests that the owner has addressed the earlier wear items, and the vehicle’s overall maintenance status appears stable and potentially improving. At 42 294 miles after six full years, the Q5 averages just over 7 000 miles per annum, which is well below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such modest annual mileage often points to relatively light usage, possibly including periods of extended parking. Low mileage reduces cumulative wear on drivetrain components, suspension bushings, and engine internals, but it can also mask age‑related degradation such as rubber hardening, fluid oxidation, and corrosion that occur regardless of distance travelled. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the tyre condition despite the low mileage. The 2024 advisory noted tread close to the legal limit and edge wear on the off‑side and nearside rear tyres; even if the tread has been replenished, tyres older than six years can suffer sidewall cracking, dry‑rot, and loss of structural integrity. Inspect each tyre for tread depth, uniform wear patterns, and any signs of cracking or bulging, and verify the manufacture date on the sidewall – any tyre older than March 2020 should be considered for replacement. The brake pads were reported thin in 2024; although no current defect was noted, pads at 3 mm typically require replacement within the next 5‑10 000 miles. Listen for any squeal or shudder under moderate braking, feel for pedal feel consistency, and check the disc surfaces for scoring or excessive rust that could indicate the need for resurfacing or new discs. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough calendar‑based inspection is advisable. Examine the 12 V battery for signs of sulfation, verify that it holds charge and that the terminals are clean, as batteries can deteriorate after several years of intermittent use. Inspect the suspension components – especially the front coil springs, rear sub‑frame bushings, and any visible dampers – for leakage, worn rubber, or loosened mounts that might manifest as clunking over bumps. Confirm that the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and transmission fluid have been changed in accordance with Audi’s service intervals, as fluids degrade over time even with low mileage. Finally, request a full service history and any recent timing‑belt or chain service records, as the 2020 Q5’s timing‑chain is generally life‑limited but may still benefit from a visual inspection for tensioner wear. Addressing these age‑related items will help ensure the vehicle remains reliable and safe beyond the next MOT.