2012 Audi A3 1.6L Diesel · FV62 YSJ

The vehicle's maintenance trend shows a worsening pattern of brake issues, culminating in a recent pass that still carries significant mechanical advisories. In the October 2025 test at 148,765 miles, the tester flagged binding nearside front and rear service brakes alongside nearside rear brake pads wearing thin. This follows a failed test just two days prior at 148,743 miles, where the same binding issues appeared alongside a split offside CV boot. The recurrence of binding brakes across multiple tests indicates a persistent problem with caliper seizure or sticking slide pins rather than simple consumable wear. While the vehicle currently holds a valid MOT certificate, the unresolved binding suggests the braking system requires immediate attention to prevent uneven wear and potential failure. The recorded mileage of 148,765 miles over fourteen years equates to roughly 10,626 miles annually, which sits squarely within typical usage parameters. The MOT history reveals a notable gap between the December 2023 test at 134,194 miles and the October 2024 test at 140,537 miles, representing an accumulation of approximately 6,343 miles over ten months. The subsequent year saw a much sharper increase, with the odometer climbing 8,228 miles between October 2024 and October 2025. This recent uptick in annual mileage suggests the vehicle has transitioned from lighter, possibly intermittent use to more regular, sustained driving, which aligns with the accelerated wear observed on the braking components. A prospective buyer must thoroughly inspect the braking system, specifically checking the nearside calipers for seizure and evaluating the condition of the rear brake pads and discs for uneven scoring. The persistent binding faults point toward neglected caliper maintenance or collapsed brake hoses restricting fluid return. The split offside CV boot, rectified between the failed and passed tests in October 2025, warrants a close visual inspection for any signs of grease splatter or ingress of dirt, as a replacement boot on a contaminated joint will fail rapidly. Suspension integrity also requires scrutiny, as the December 2023 advisory for a worn offside rear suspension arm bush indicates deteriorating mounting points that will affect wheel alignment and tyre wear. Finally, check the nearside rear tyre for cracking and the offside front tyre for edge wear, as both have previously worn close to the legal limit, suggesting potential tracking issues or prolonged neglect of basic tyre maintenance.