2011 Audi A3 1.2L Petrol · AF11 UPH

Oil misting on both the nearside front and rear shock absorbers, thin front brake pads with disc wear, and earlier corrosion of the rear coil springs together form a clear picture of a suspension and braking system that is beginning to show age‑related wear. The latest MOT on 14 October 2025 recorded only these advisories and no outright failures, indicating that while the car remains road‑legal, the trend points toward escalating wear in the suspension and braking components. At 75 207 miles for a 2011 model the annual mileage averages just over 5 000 mi, well below the typical UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often coincides with periods of limited use or storage, which can accelerate rubber and metal degradation despite the modest distance covered. The MOT record shows regular annual testing with no large gaps, suggesting the car has been kept on the road consistently, yet the low mileage does not preclude the development of the oil‑misting shocks and coil‑spring corrosion now noted. When inspecting the suspension, look for any oily residue on the shock bodies and listen for a soft, thudding noise when driving over bumps, which can indicate internal leakage. Feel for uneven wheel bounce or a sagging ride, especially at the rear, and check the rear wheel wells for signs of rust around the coil‑spring mounts. Any clunking or excessive play when the steering is rocked at a standstill may point to deteriorated bushings that have been aggravated by the corrosion previously flagged. For the braking system, verify pad thickness by visual inspection through the wheel spokes and feel for a high‑pitched squeal that can signal worn pads or glazed surfaces. Examine the disc faces for scoring, rust spots, or uneven wear patterns that correspond with the advisory about disc wear. During a test drive, note any increase in pedal travel, a soft or spongy feel, or a pull to one side under braking, all of which would merit a thorough brake service and likely replacement of the front pads and possible resurfacing or replacement of the discs.