2017 Audi A3 2.0L Petrol · CB53 TES

The latest MOT test conducted in April 2026 resulted in a pass, although it flagged a severely deteriorated nearside front outer drive shaft constant velocity boot. Reviewing the overall history, the maintenance trend appears generally stable, with previous failures limited to basic consumables such as tyres and washer fluid. However, the emergence of a severely deteriorated rubber boot after several clean tests suggests that the vehicle is now entering a phase where age-related degradation of rubber components is becoming more prevalent, shifting the maintenance requirement from simple consumables to more specific mechanical wear items. The recorded mileage of 73,520 miles over approximately nine years indicates an average annual usage of roughly 8,169 miles. This is considered typical for this model and age, suggesting a consistent usage pattern likely consisting of a mix of urban and motorway driving. Because the vehicle has not suffered from prolonged periods of standing or excessive high-mileage wear, the structural integrity and drivetrain should remain robust, although it has reached a mileage threshold where suspension components and braking hardware typically require their first major cycle of refurbishment. The most critical point for inspection is the nearside front CV boot. A deteriorated boot allows essential lubrication to escape and road contaminants to enter the joint, which will eventually lead to joint failure. During the test drive, the buyer should listen for a distinct clicking or popping noise when steering at full lock or during tight manoeuvres, as this indicates the joint is already compromised. If the boot has not been replaced since the last MOT, this represents an immediate maintenance requirement to prevent a more expensive drive shaft replacement. Additionally, the 2023 records noted pitted rear brake discs and uneven tyre wear. The buyer should examine the current rear discs for heavy scoring or corrosion and feel for any shuddering through the brake pedal during deceleration, which would suggest warping or uneven wear. A close inspection of the tyre sidewalls and tread patterns is also advised to ensure that previous alignment issues have been resolved and that the rubber has not perished. Finally, the service book should be verified to ensure that oil and fluid changes have been performed on a calendar basis, regardless of the mileage, to prevent internal engine sludge or brake fluid moisture contamination.