2018 Audi A5 2.0L Petrol · YY68 SFF

Brake disc wear dominates the MOT narrative – advisories have appeared on both front and rear rotors across successive tests, with the rear discs flagged in 2025 and the front discs in 2023, indicating a consistent pattern of thinning, pitting or scoring that, while not yet a safety‑critical failure, points to an imminent need for replacement or resurfacing. The most recent MOT in March 2026 confirmed the car passes, but the absence of any defect notes does not erase the cumulative wear trend evident in earlier advisories, and the sidewall cut on the nearside front tyre recorded in 2023 further highlights the vehicle’s approaching maintenance deadline. At 70,177 mi the car averages roughly 8,800 mi per year, a mileage level that sits comfortably within the normal UK usage envelope for a 2018 model. The MOT chronology shows a regular annual testing rhythm from 2021 onward, with only a modest twelve‑month gap between the December 2021 pass and the April 2023 test – a period that may simply reflect a delayed renewal rather than prolonged inactivity. This steady mileage accumulation suggests that consumables such as brakes, tyres and suspension components have been subjected to typical wear rates, reinforcing the relevance of the brake‑disc advisories and the tyre cut. For a prospective buyer, a thorough brake inspection is essential. Examine the rotor surfaces for deep scoring, heat‑discolouration or uneven wear, and measure disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum specification; any deviation below the limit will necessitate replacement. Inspect the brake pads for remaining material – the 2025 advisory noted thin rear pads, so confirm that the pads are still within service limits and that the caliper pistons move freely without binding. During a test drive, apply the brakes firmly at low and moderate speeds; listen for high‑pitched squeal or feel for a spongy, pulsating pedal, both of which can betray worn discs or pads. Given the front‑disc advisory, anticipate that the nearside and off‑side rotors may also be approaching their service threshold and budget for a full front‑and‑rear brake service. The sidewall cut on the nearside front tyre should be examined for depth and proximity to the bead; any breach beyond superficial scuffing warrants immediate replacement, as structural integrity could be compromised under load. Verify that the child‑seat fittings no longer obstruct adult belt inspection, and check the seat‑belt mechanisms for smooth retraction and locking. While no suspension or structural defects have been flagged, a sensible test‑drive check for any knocking over bumps, steering pull or uneven tyre wear will help confirm that the suspension bushes, control arms and steering geometry remain sound. Addressing the brake and tyre items promptly will restore the car to a robust road‑worthy state and mitigate the risk of unexpected failure.