2016 Audi Q5 2.0L Diesel · WF66 CWN

A recurring pattern of front and rear brake wear and front suspension arm bush deterioration defines the mechanical profile of this 2016 Audi Q5, with the most recent test on 2025-04-24 recording advisories for both front and rear brake pads wearing thin. These brake advisories are not isolated occurrences; identical warnings were issued at the September 2020 test, indicating that pad replacement cycles on this vehicle have been tracked across the full recorded history. Suspension wear is an equally persistent theme, with the September 2020 test flagging both offside and nearside front upper suspension arm bushes as worn, followed by the April 2024 test recording the nearside and offside front lower suspension arm pins or bushes as worn. Despite these recurring advisories, the vehicle has passed every test recorded, and the most recent pass confirms no progression to test failure, though the multi-year recurrence of bush wear points to underlying front suspension geometry that should be scrutinised rather than dismissed as routine consumable ageing. Additional advisories from April 2024 noted slight cracking or perishing on both rear tyres, and the September 2019 test recorded an oil level at minimum, streaking front wipers, and a minor windscreen damage item. At 100,559 recorded miles on a 2016 vehicle, this Q5 has accumulated roughly 10,056 miles annually, which sits close to the average for its age bracket. The mileage progression across the recorded tests is consistent and steady, with no abrupt jumps or anomalous gaps that would suggest clock irregularities or extended periods off the road. The absence of a 2021 test record and the presence of the September 2020 and April 2022 entries indicate the vehicle was tested annually without any multi-year lay-up that would warrant particular concern over dormant component degradation such as seized brakes or moisture-laden brake fluid. The mileage accumulation is sufficient to expect wear on suspension, braking, and drivetrain components but not so high as to automatically imply major mechanical refurbishment has been required. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front suspension, as advisories on both upper arm bushes in 2020 and both lower arm pins or bushes in 2024 suggest a pattern of progressive wear across multiple linkage points rather than a single isolated replacement. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, and feel for any vagueness or delay in steering response that could indicate excessive play in worn bushes. The brake pedal should feel firm without sponginess, and any pulling to one side under braking or vibration through the steering wheel could suggest binding calipers or warped discs, particularly given the repeated brake pad wear advisories indicating active use of the braking system. Inspect the rear tyres carefully for sidewall cracking consistent with the April 2024 advisory, as perished rubber compromises grip and may indicate age-related rubber degradation across other components. Beyond the flagged items, a thorough inspection should include raising the vehicle to examine the front subframe, suspension arms, and anti-roll bar linkages for any corrosion or perished rubber boots, as these areas are commonly affected on higher-mileage Q5s and were not specifically cleared by the MOT record. Check the engine oil level and condition, given the 2019 advisory noting oil on minimum, and look for any signs of oil leaks around the sump or cam chain areas that could indicate sealing degradation. Inspect the underside exhaust system for corrosion, particularly around mounting points and joints, and verify that all four tyres are matching in age and tread depth. Finally, confirm the service history independently, as the MOT record itself does not establish maintenance intervals, and ensure the timing chain and turbo system have received attention appropriate to this mileage level.