2007 Audi A3 1.9L Diesel · AF57 TYV

The most recent MOT on 2 July 2025 was a pass, but it carried the same front‑suspension arm corrosion advisories that have been recurring for the past three years. The test history shows a mixed picture: a serious failure in June 2025 for dangerously thin front brake pads, a heavily worn front disc and deteriorating CV‑boot condition, followed by a pass a month later after those items were presumably addressed. Since then the vehicle has continued to pass, albeit with persistent corrosion advisories on the front suspension arms, coil springs and rear sub‑frame, and a prior failure for split wiper blades that appears to have been remedied. Overall the trend is relatively stable – the major safety‑critical items have been corrected – but the ongoing corrosion warnings suggest that component wear is still progressing and will need monitoring. At 110,993 mi the car averages roughly 5,800 mi per year, which is low for a 2007 model. Such modest annual mileage often points to long periods of inactivity, a factor that can accelerate age‑related degradation even when wear‑related mileage is low. The low utilisation means that consumables such as brake pads, discs and tyres may have more calendar‑related wear than mileage‑related wear, while components that sit idle – for example the suspension bushes, CV joints and battery – are more prone to corrosion, fluid breakdown and loss of elasticity. Any sudden increase in mileage after a period of storage could also place additional strain on ageing parts. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front braking system. Even though the pads were replaced after the 2025 failure, the front discs were flagged as significantly worn and may be approaching the end of their service life; look for a surface that is scored, glazed or uneven, and listen for a high‑pitched squeal or pulsation under braking. The CV boots on both front drive shafts were noted as split or severely deteriorated, so inspect for grease leakage, cracked rubber and any clicking or shudder when turning the steering wheel at low speed – symptoms of joint wear. The front suspension arms and coil springs have been repeatedly reported as corroded; check for excessive play in the ball joints, uneven tyre wear, or clunking over bumps, and verify that the bushings are not pitted or cracked. The wiper blades were previously split, so confirm that they now clear the windscreen effectively and that the motor operates smoothly. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough visual and tactile inspection is advisable. Examine all tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening, especially the front tyres that were previously close to the legal tread limit. Verify the condition of the battery – a load test or a simple voltage check after a short drive should reveal any loss of capacity. Inspect the engine bay for signs of fluid leaks, corrosion on the coolant hoses, and ensure that the brake fluid has been changed within the last two years, as it absorbs moisture with time. Finally, look over the rear sub‑frame for any rust patches that could compromise structural integrity, and confirm that the service book contains recent oil, filter and timing‑belt (or chain) entries, as these are critical for long‑term reliability on a car that has spent considerable time stationary.