2017 Audi A3 2.0L Diesel · BP03 RAE

A recurring pattern of braking system degradation and tyre wear defines this vehicle's mechanical history, culminating in a dangerous failure on 3 January 2026. While the most recent test resulted in a pass, the preceding failure highlighted critical safety issues, specifically both front inner tyres having exposed ply or cords and rear brake pads falling below the 1.5 mm legal limit. This follows a history of repeated advisories and failures regarding rear brake discs being significantly worn or pitted, as seen in the 2022 failure and the 2021 and 2025 advisories. The data suggests a cycle where braking components and tyres are allowed to reach or exceed their wear limits before being addressed. The vehicle has covered 91,670 miles over its nine-year lifespan, averaging approximately 10,186 miles per year. This usage profile is consistent with typical annual mileage for a vehicle of this age. From a mechanical perspective, this level of accumulation means that wear on consumables such as brake discs, pads, and tyres is expected, but the MOT record shows these components have frequently been flagged near or at the point of failure. The mileage does not indicate periods of prolonged inactivity, but rather a steady rate of use that has subjected the braking and tyre components to regular wear. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the braking system during a test drive. Given the history of worn and pitted rear brake discs, as well as reported fluctuations in rear service brake performance in 2022, it is essential to check for any pedal judder or pulsation when applying the brakes at various speeds. Any uneven braking force or a pulling sensation to one side could indicate binding calipers or unevenly worn discs. The recent failure of the front tyres due to exposed cords suggests that tyre tread depth and general condition should be scrutinised across all four wheels to ensure they are not nearing the legal limit or showing signs of uneven edge wear. Beyond the brakes and tyres, the history of wipers clearing poorly in 2021 and various tyre wear advisories suggests that general peripheral maintenance should be verified. During the inspection, listen for any unusual knocking or clunking sounds from the suspension when driving over uneven surfaces, as frequent tyre wear can sometimes be linked to alignment issues or worn suspension bushes. While the 2026 pass indicates the immediate dangerous defects have been rectified, the frequency of brake-related interventions necessitates a thorough verification of the current state of the rear braking assembly and the overall integrity of the tyre treads.