2004 Audi A3 1.6L Petrol · GV04 EHT

This Audi A3’s most recent MOT test on 2026-07-27—just three days ago—shows a clean pass with no recorded defects, though the preceding test on 2023-07-20 failed without explanation. The pattern of repeated failures at roughly annual intervals (2022-03-18, 2022-07-08, 2023-07-20) suggests either inconsistent test centre procedures or unresolved issues that were overlooked between tests. The final pass in July 2023 at 116,376 miles indicates no major faults were detected at that point, but the lack of defects recorded on failures raises questions about whether critical components—such as suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers—were systematically checked. The vehicle’s mileage of 116,376 miles over 22 years equates to an average of around 5,300 miles annually, which is unusually low for a car of this age. The gap between the 2022-03-18 failure (113,775 miles) and the 2022-07-08 failure (113,779 miles) suggests minimal driving between tests, potentially indicating periods of inactivity. This low mileage could mean the car has spent extended time stationary, which may accelerate issues like suspension corrosion or brake disc binding from lack of use. Conversely, the consistent annual testing cadence implies the owner was at least attempting regular compliance, though the repeated failures hint at either neglect or a lack of thorough pre-test maintenance. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, as these are common failure points in older Audi models. The repeated failures without recorded defects also warrant checking for binding rear brakes, which often go unnoticed until a test. Structural corrosion, particularly around wheel arches and sills, should be examined closely, as prolonged inactivity can exacerbate rust. Finally, the brake discs and calipers should be assessed for uneven wear or glazing, which could explain the inconsistent pass/fail outcomes. A thorough check of the exhaust system for leaks or excessive corrosion is also advisable, given the age of the vehicle.