2018 Audi A5 2.0L Petrol · WS18 AXY

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 2026-08-29 resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, indicating a stable roadworthiness status. While the vehicle’s maintenance history shows recurring advisories—particularly concerning the front upper suspension arm bushes and rear coil spring mountings—these have consistently been deemed not to exceed the legal limits for excessive movement or structural compromise. The absence of defects in the latest test suggests that, despite these wear-related advisories, the vehicle remains functional and compliant with current roadworthiness standards. The pattern of advisories rather than outright failures reflects typical wear progression in a vehicle of this age and mileage, with no evidence of sudden deterioration or unresolved issues. The recorded mileage of 75,962 miles for a 2018 Audi A5 represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 9,495 miles, which is consistent with the vehicle’s age and typical driving patterns. This level of mileage does not suggest either excessive wear from high annual mileage or prolonged idleness, though it does imply that the vehicle has been in regular use rather than stored for extended periods. The absence of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests further supports this, as the vehicle appears to have been maintained within a consistent usage profile. However, the wear advisories on suspension components and brake pads warrant closer attention, as these areas are more prone to progressive deterioration with continued use. Given the recurring advisories on the front upper suspension arm bushes—both near- and offside—which have been noted in multiple MOT tests, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of these components during the test drive. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when the vehicle is driven over bumps or at speed, as this may indicate further wear or detachment of the bushes. Visually check for any signs of excessive play or misalignment when the vehicle is lifted on a stand, and assess the condition of the suspension arms themselves for signs of corrosion or fatigue. If the bushes are found to be severely worn beyond the advisories, replacement may be necessary to prevent suspension failure, which could lead to poor ride quality, misaligned steering, or even vehicle instability. For the rear coil spring mountings, which have shown signs of corrosion but not serious weakening, the buyer should examine the mounting points for any signs of rust penetration or structural compromise, particularly around the bolt threads and mounting brackets. During the test drive, pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations emanating from the rear suspension, which could suggest that the corrosion has progressed to affect the coil springs or mounting integrity. The rear brake pads, noted as wearing thin in one previous test, should also be inspected for even wear and signs of glazing or excessive heat buildup, which could indicate underlying brake system issues. If the pads are significantly worn or the brake discs show signs of excessive heat damage or warping, further inspection of the brake calipers and hydraulic system is advisable. Additionally, the front tyres, which were noted as worn close to the legal limit in a previous MOT, should be thoroughly checked for tread depth and overall condition. Look for signs of uneven wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing, cracking, or bulging, which may suggest age-related degradation. Given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should also verify the condition of the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain and corrosion of terminals. Check for any signs of corrosion on the battery terminals and cables, and test the battery’s charge capacity to ensure it remains capable of supporting the vehicle’s electrical demands. Finally, since the vehicle has been driven over 75,000 miles, it is prudent to review the service history for any scheduled fluid replacements, particularly the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, which should be checked for freshness and condition. If the service book is not available, the buyer should consider having these fluids tested for degradation or contamination, as fluids can break down over time even with regular use.