AUDI A5 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 20,845 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
85%
Total Tests (2024)
20,845
Avg Mileage
106,193 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,577
Is the 2012 AUDI A5 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the AUDI brand average of 90%.
At 12 years old, 85% of AUDI A5s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 20,845 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 106,193 miles.
How does the 2012 AUDI A5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 AUDI A5 has 106,193 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a AUDI A5?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 82%. The 2012 sits between the two at 85%.
How much does a 2012 AUDI A5 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
AUDI A5 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 92% | 768 | 29,053 mi |
| 2020 | 91% | 5,513 | 35,048 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 22,290 | 43,034 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 25,771 | 52,385 mi |
| 2017 | 89% | 33,531 | 63,247 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 17,690 | 73,631 mi |
| 2015 | 87% | 22,720 | 82,750 mi |
| 2014 | 86% | 23,251 | 92,783 mi |
| 2013 | 85% | 23,409 | 98,721 mi |
| 2012 | 85% | 20,845 | 106,193 mi |
| 2011 | 83% | 21,339 | 112,687 mi |
| 2010 | 82% | 22,181 | 119,440 mi |
| 2009 | 82% | 13,400 | 125,967 mi |
| 2008 | 83% | 8,932 | 132,636 mi |
| 2007 | 82% | 3,222 | 141,630 mi |
Checking a specific AUDI A5?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 AUDI A5
The 2012 AUDI A5 is a premium with a 1968cc diesel engine. 20,845 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 106,193 miles at 12 years old, AUDI A5 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 AUDI A5 Fuel Costs
The 1968cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2012 AUDI A5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,577 (£131/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 85% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
AUDI A5 Reliability Trend
Newer AUDI A5s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 6 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 AUDI A5
At 12 years old, the AUDI A5 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 92%. With 20,845 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2012 AUDI A5
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2014) 87% pass rate (+2%) from 120,417 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (-6%) from 101,969 tests
- AUDI A3 (2014) 86% pass rate (+1%) from 77,639 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-11%) from 75,715 tests