2015 Audi A3 2.0L Diesel · EF15 BSX

A recurring light oil misting on the off‑side rear shock absorber dominates the mechanical picture of this 2015 Audi A3, appearing as an advisory on the 2025, 2026 and 2025‑07‑22 MOTs and persisting despite the vehicle passing each subsequent test. The only outright failure recorded was a dangerous bulge on the off‑side front tyre in July 2025, which required replacement before the car could be re‑tested. Apart from that incident, the MOT history shows clean passes in 2022, 2023 and 2024, with only advisory notes on rear brake disc condition in 2020 and 2021. At 93,400 mi the car averages roughly 8,500 mi per year, a mileage rate that sits comfortably within normal usage patterns for a vehicle of its age. The MOT record is uninterrupted, indicating the car has been driven consistently each year rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This steady kilometre accumulation suggests typical wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components, without any evidence of abrupt mileage spikes that might point to unusually aggressive use. Prospective buyers should inspect the off‑side rear shock absorber for any sign of oil leakage, dampness on surrounding suspension parts or a soft, squishy feel when applying the rear‑wheel bump‑steer. On a test drive listen for a metallic clunk or excessive bounce over uneven surfaces, which would indicate deteriorating damper internals and may warrant replacement. The front tyre that failed in 2025 should be examined for any subtle bulges, cracks or uneven tread wear on the off‑side wheel; even if the current tyre appears sound, the previous structural failure suggests a need for a thorough visual and tactile inspection of all front tyres. The rear brake discs have been flagged twice for wear, pitting and slight corrosion, though they were not deemed unsafe at the time of testing. Buyers ought to check the disc surfaces for deep scoring or excessive rust and feel for any pulsation or judder in the brake pedal under moderate braking, which would indicate thinning material. Measuring disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum specification, or having a workshop confirm it, will help determine whether the discs are approaching the end of their service life and need replacement.