2017 Audi Q3 2.0L Diesel · AM60 DON

The most recent MOT on 5 June 2026 was a clean pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle was brought back into compliance after a series of serious failures earlier in the same year. The pattern over the last five years shows a mixed maintenance record: a dangerous failure in early 2024 for rear‑tyre tread, a series of front‑suspension and brake‑disc failures in May 2026, and earlier advisories in 2025 for brake wear and suspension arm bush wear. While the latest pass suggests that remedial work has been carried out, the recurrence of major safety‑related defects points to a reactive rather than proactive maintenance approach and a trend that has been worsening before the most recent repair. At 106 687 miles for a 2017 model the annual average of roughly 11 800 miles is within the normal UK usage envelope and does not, on its own, explain the severe component failures recorded. However, the concentration of front‑axle problems – fractured coil springs, weakened brake discs and worn suspension arm pins – could indicate that the vehicle has been subjected to higher load cycles, aggressive driving or periods of standing that stress the front suspension and braking system. The mileage figure therefore should be viewed alongside the service history; a vehicle with typical mileage but a history of front‑axle failures may have experienced accelerated wear on those components. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension and braking system. Visually inspect the front coil springs for any signs of cracking, corrosion or deformation and check that the vehicle sits level without excessive sag. During a low‑speed test drive listen for clunking or knocking from the lower control arms and feel for any looseness in the steering rack. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, deep scoring or uneven wear and verify that the pads have sufficient thickness; a pulsating pedal or shudder when braking would corroborate disc weakening. Confirm that all front tyres have a tread depth well above the legal 1.6 mm and are free of sidewall cracking, as tyre perishing can be rapid on older low‑mileage cars that sit for long periods. Beyond the immediate safety items, the buyer should verify the condition of time‑sensitive items that are not mileage‑dependent. Check the 12‑volt battery for voltage and cranking performance, especially if the car has been idle for extended spells. Inspect the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid for correct levels and signs of contamination, and ask for evidence of scheduled fluid changes – Audi typically recommends oil changes every 10 000 miles or 12 months. Look for any corrosion on the chassis, particularly around the rear suspension mounting points, and ensure that the service book shows regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain inspections (if applicable) and any recall rectifications. A thorough visual and auditory inspection, combined with a test drive that probes the front end, will give the buyer confidence that the vehicle’s earlier serious defects have been properly remedied and that no hidden wear is likely to surface shortly after purchase.