2015 Audi A3 2.0L Diesel · AO65 VVC

A recurring issue with the offside rear shock absorber defines the mechanical history of this vehicle, appearing as an advisory across multiple years despite a clean pass on 2026-08-14. The record indicates a period of instability in late 2025, where a major failure for a fractured nearside front coil spring necessitated immediate repair before a subsequent pass. While the latest result is clear of defects, the persistence of the shock absorber misting suggests a long-term slow leak that has remained below the threshold for failure but has not been rectified. With 118,279 miles recorded over eleven years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 10,753 miles per annum, which represents typical usage for its age. This consistent accumulation suggests the drivetrain and chassis have been subjected to regular operational cycles rather than prolonged periods of stagnation. At this mileage interval, wear on suspension bushings, engine mounts, and drivetrain consumables is expected, and the recent coil spring failure is consistent with the fatigue typically seen in vehicles exceeding 100,000 miles. Potential buyers should pay close attention to the rear suspension performance, specifically focusing on the offside rear shock absorber. During a test drive, listen for knocking or thumping sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, and observe if the rear of the car exhibits excessive bouncing or instability after a dip. The long-term presence of oil misting indicates a seal failure that may eventually lead to a complete loss of damping efficiency. Further inspection should verify the quality of the replacement nearside front coil spring and the condition of the corresponding offside spring. Check for any steering pull or uneven tyre wear on the front axle, which could indicate that the previous suspension failure affected the wheel alignment. Ensure there are no audible metallic clicks or pops during low-speed manoeuvring, as these can signal further degradation of the suspension linkages or bushings associated with the high mileage of the chassis.