2015 Audi Q3 2.0L Diesel · CH52 MAE

Corrosion on the rear subframe and lower suspension arms represents the primary mechanical concern for this vehicle, despite the most recent MOT pass on 1 December 2025 which recorded no defects. The 2024 test highlighted these structural and suspension components as corroded but not yet seriously weakened, marking a shift from the relatively clean history seen in the preceding years. While the 2025 result suggests no immediate deterioration in the severity of this corrosion, the presence of these advisories indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase where oxidation of the underbody components requires closer monitoring. The vehicle exhibits a low annual mileage profile, having covered approximately 54,530 miles over its eleven-year lifespan, which equates to an average of roughly 4,957 miles per year. This usage pattern is significantly lower than the UK average and suggests the vehicle has spent considerable time stationary or has been used for very short, infrequent journeys. While lower mileage typically implies less wear on the drivetrain and engine components, it can also mean that rubber components, such as the CV boots flagged in 2024, or suspension bushings, may be subject to age-related degradation or perishing rather than purely mechanical wear from high-frequency use. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the underside of the vehicle to assess the current state of the rear subframe and lower suspension arms. During a test drive, listen for any rhythmic knocking, clunking, or creaking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as these can indicate that the previously noted corrosion or the slightly leaking nearside front CV boots are affecting suspension geometry or joint integrity. Any sudden changes in steering feel or a pulling sensation to one side should be investigated, particularly given the history of shock absorber misting in 2019 and the more recent CV boot advisories. Furthermore, the grease leakage noted on the nearside front CV inner and outer boots in 2024 warrants a visual inspection of the drive shafts for any significant accumulation of grease or signs of a split boot. If the grease has escaped, it can lead to premature failure of the CV joints, which may manifest as a clicking noise during low-speed, full-lock turns. Ensuring that the recent absence of defects in the 2025 MOT holds true for the suspension and steering assembly is essential, as the transition from advisory to failure on structural corrosion is a common progression in vehicles with this specific history.