Audi A5 S Line TDI CVT (2012)
2012 Audi A5 S Line TDI CVT
CarHunch analysed 100 real MOT records for the 2012 Audi A5 S Line TDI CVT. This breakdown of actual test outcomes — pass rates, defect profiles, mileage data — isn't published anywhere else.
This 2012 A5 S Line TDI is significantly less reliable than the UK average, with just 52.6% of vehicles passing their MOT first time against the 80% national benchmark—a serious red flag that suggests mechanical or wear-related issues are commonplace in this cohort. The good news is that dangerous defects are not prevalent (0%), so failures tend to be repairable rather than safety-critical.
At 106,780 miles median, these cars are showing typical wear for their age, yet the 0.5 average failures per vehicle indicates ongoing costs are likely. Before buying, get a full pre-purchase inspection focusing on the CVT transmission (known problem area on Audis) and diesel engine condition, as this model's poor MOT record suggests both components merit particular scrutiny.
What to check before buying a 2012 Audi A5 S Line TDI CVT
Practical pre-purchase checks for this age and model.
- 📋 Check the full MOT history. Look for recurring advisories — slow-building issues like corrosion or brake wear patterns show up years before they become failures. Enter the reg below for a full AI analysis.
- 🔍 Inspect for corrosion in person. Brake pipes, sills, subframes, and chassis legs. Surface rust is normal at this age; structural rust is a serious problem that's expensive to fix and can fail an MOT.
- 🛞 Check tyres and brakes. The most common advisory items at this age. Budget for replacement if they're near the limit — factor this into your offer price.
- 📄 Run an HPI check. The MOT history won't show outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen status — an HPI check will.
Before you buy a Audi A5 S Line TDI CVT
MOT history is one piece of the puzzle. These checks can reveal what CarHunch can't.
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Mileage Distribution
Most 2012 Audi A5 S Line TDI CVT vehicles sit in the blue band. If the car you're looking at is outside it, it's either unusually low or high mileage for its age.
Half of all 2012 Audi A5 S Line TDI CVT vehicles fall between 87,531 and 124,648 miles.
2012 Audi A5 S Line TDI CVT — Still on the Road
Strong survival — 48 vehicles still getting MOTs in 2025, 96% of the peak.
Based on vehicles from this manufacture year that had at least one MOT test in each calendar year. Data from 2017–2025.
MOT History Averages
Found a specific Audi A5 S Line TDI CVT?
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