2021 Audi A3 S Line 35 Tfsi 1.5L Petrol · SD21 KKE

This 2021 Audi A3 has maintained a clean and consistent MOT record across its three tests, with the most recent examination on 7 April 2026 resulting in a pass and only a single advisory relating to the rear brake pads wearing thin. The two prior tests in April 2024 and April 2025 both passed without any advisories or defects recorded, indicating a stable roadworthiness profile with no emerging pattern of recurring component issues. The rear brake advisory is the only mechanical note against the vehicle and represents a routine consumable observation rather than a structural or safety concern. Taken in isolation, the trend across the testing history suggests no deterioration in the areas DVSA examiners scrutinise most closely, including suspension, steering, braking, exhaust integrity, and corrosion. The recorded mileage of 40,118 miles across approximately five years equates to an annual accumulation of roughly 8,000 miles, which sits squarely within typical usage parameters for a modern family hatchback of this age. There are no extended gaps between tests that would suggest the vehicle was laid up for prolonged periods, and the mileage progression between annual examinations is consistent and regular. This continuous usage pattern is mechanically favourable because it means regular thermal cycling of the engine, transmission, and drivetrain, consistent wear on suspension components, and reduced likelihood of issues such as seized brakes, deteriorated rubber seals, or flat-spotted tyres that often accompany long-standing vehicles. For a prospective buyer, the rear brake pad advisory from April 2026 should be addressed as part of any negotiation, but it is worth noting that pads were deemed only wearing thin rather than at the legal minimum, meaning the vehicle remains roadworthy. On a test drive, attention should be directed towards the rear braking system specifically: listen for any scraping or grinding noise from the rear wheels on light application, and feel for any pulling to one side under braking which could indicate uneven pad wear or a binding rear caliper. Given that the discs themselves were not flagged, they are likely within service life, but it is prudent to inspect them for lipping or surface corrosion, particularly given the moisture exposure typical of rear disc systems. Beyond the brake observation, a thorough test drive should include some of the components common to the A3 platform at this age and mileage, even though none have been flagged to date. On uneven surfaces, listen for knocks or clonks from the front suspension, particularly over speed bumps, which could indicate worn control arm bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, or top mount bearings. The MQB platform coil springs can occasionally fracture, so listen for any metallic noise from the front end under load. Steering should be checked for vagueness, clonking on full lock, or uneven tyre wear, all of which would point to track rod or wishbone wear. Finally, inspect the underside and inner wheel arches for any emerging corrosion, particularly around the rear suspension mounting points and exhaust hangers, as the A3's underbody protection is known to deteriorate from around the five-year mark. A pre-purchase inspection on a ramp would be advisable to confirm the absence of oil leaks from the engine and transmission, areas the MOT test does not examine.