2014 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · W400 ABS

The most recent MOT test on 2026-07-14 resulted in a clean pass, indicating that the vehicle has met all roadworthiness standards at that point. However, the prior test failures and advisories from 2023-05-30—particularly the engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) activation and inoperative offside headlamp cleaning device—suggest a pattern of unresolved or critical mechanical issues that were not rectified before the previous MOT. The 2024 and 2025 tests were also clean, which may imply that the vehicle was either serviced promptly after the 2023 failure or that the underlying engine and electrical faults were either corrected or less severe than initially recorded. Nonetheless, the presence of a persistent advisory regarding front tyre wear close to the legal limit in 2025 highlights ongoing wear that should not be ignored, as it may indicate excessive road load or improper alignment. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 115,681 miles at 12 years old represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 9,640 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. Lower mileage could suggest periods of inactivity or infrequent use, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion in the exhaust system or battery degradation, while higher mileage would accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and engine fluids. The 2023 failure, combined with the MIL activation, may also imply that the engine was subjected to higher stress or had underlying wear that only surfaced under load, warranting closer attention to fluid levels, filter condition, and potential long-term drivetrain strain. The absence of significant mileage spikes between tests suggests that the vehicle was not driven excessively between inspections, but this does not absolve the need for proactive maintenance to address the unresolved engine-related concerns. Given the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the engine and electrical systems, particularly focusing on the following areas: the engine control unit (ECU) and wiring harness for signs of damage or corrosion, as the MIL activation in 2023 could indicate a persistent fault that may have been masked by the vehicle’s age or previous servicing. Listen for unusual engine noises during acceleration or at idle, as persistent knocking or misfiring could signal deeper wear or failing components like piston rings or valves. The front tyres, which were noted to be worn close to the legal limit in 2025, should be checked for uneven wear patterns, which may point to misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressure. Inspect the suspension for excessive play or clunking when driving over bumps, as this could indicate worn coil springs, suspension bushes, or damaged strut mounts. Additionally, the exhaust system’s corrosion, particularly around the centre clamp, should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to the catalytic converter or manifold. For the 2014 Q5 at this mileage, the buyer should also verify the following time-sensitive checks: the condition of the brake discs and pads, as standing or infrequent use can lead to corrosion or binding calipers that may only become apparent during braking. Check for any signs of fluid degradation, such as oil sludge in the engine bay or brake fluid contamination, which can compromise performance and safety. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery holds a charge when static, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate battery failure. Finally, examine the vehicle’s service history for any missing or outdated maintenance records, particularly for fluid changes, timing belt replacement (if applicable), and suspension servicing, as these are critical for long-term reliability. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the wear on components like the suspension, tyres, and brakes will be more pronounced, so a comprehensive inspection should include checking tyre tread depth, wheel alignment, and brake system operation for any signs of overheating or uneven wear.