2018 Audi A3 1.5L Petrol · R123 ACB

Rear‑brake wear and emerging corrosion on the rear lower suspension arm dominate the recent MOT record, with the 2025‑11‑21 test still passing but flagging thin rear‑pad material and the 2024‑11‑15 test noting both rear‑pad wear and surface corrosion on the lower arms. The same 2024 inspection also highlighted a near‑side front tyre showing sidewall cracking and tread approaching the legal minimum. No outright failures have been recorded, but the pattern of recurring brake‑pad advisories and the first appearance of suspension‑arm corrosion suggest that wear items are beginning to converge on the vehicle’s age rather than its mileage. At 38,585 mi the car averages roughly 4,800 mi per year, well below the typical UK usage for an eight‑year‑old hatchback. Such low annual mileage can mean reduced cumulative stress on drivetrain and suspension components, yet the MOT advisories indicate that age‑related wear is already manifesting. The absence of any testing gaps – a MOT each year since 2021 – provides a continuous picture of the vehicle’s condition, confirming that the brake‑pad thinning and tyre degradation have developed despite modest use, which may reflect the vehicle’s operating environment or driving style rather than mileage alone. When test‑driving, press the rear‑brake pedal firmly and note any sponginess, pulsation, or squealing that could signal pads nearing the minimum thickness flagged in the advisories. Listen for metallic scrape or grinding, especially when applying the brakes from moderate speed, and feel for any pull or uneven pedal travel that might indicate uneven pad wear. Inspect the front tyre visually for sidewall cracks, bulges, or exposed cords, and verify tread depth across the tread face; a tread depth approaching 3 mm on the inner edge, as recorded, would be close to the legal limit and may require immediate replacement. Examine the rear lower suspension arms for any flaking, bubbling, or deep pitting beyond the surface corrosion noted, and during a low‑speed ride over bumps listen for clunking or excessive play that could betray weakened mounting points. Check wheel alignment by observing whether the car tracks straight without steering correction and watch for any steering pull to the rear‑wheel side, which can be a symptom of deteriorated arm geometry. Given the age‑related wear already identified, a thorough inspection of the rear brake system, front tyre condition, and rear suspension by a qualified mechanic before purchase would be prudent to confirm that no hidden deterioration has progressed beyond the advisory stage.