2016 Audi A3 2.0L Petrol · GX16 HTA

The 2016 Audi A3 presents a mixed maintenance picture. The most recent MOT, conducted on 27 February 2026 at 91,287 miles, passed but carried four distinct advisories that signal deferred attention. Front brake discs were flagged as worn on both sides, rear brake pads were noted as wearing thin, and a central front tyre along with the offside rear tyre both presented cuts not yet deep enough to expose the ply or cords. A minor exhaust gas leak was also logged. Comparing this to the March 2025 test at 85,423 miles, which only flagged worn front discs and a minor oil leak, the trend is clearly worsening. The vehicle has accumulated more advisories in its latest test, suggesting routine component replacement has not kept pace with wear. Mileage accumulation sits at roughly 9,129 miles per year over a decade, which is typical for this age of vehicle. The record shows a steady climb from 62,305 miles in February 2022 to 91,287 miles in February 2026, with no alarming gaps or sudden spikes that would suggest long-term standing or clocking. The MOT history itself is sparse, with only five tests recorded across four years, which is below the expected annual frequency for a vehicle of this mileage. This thin record makes it harder to establish a reliable long-term maintenance pattern, though the clean pass in March 2024 at 77,173 miles indicates at least one period of sound upkeep. A buyer should focus inspection efforts on the braking system first. Front discs have appeared as worn in both the 2025 and 2026 tests, meaning they are likely approaching or past minimum thickness now. Rear pads were flagged as thin in February 2026, so expect these to require imminent replacement. The tyre cuts on both the central front and offside rear warrant close physical examination; any cut on a 225/40/18 tyre raises questions about sidewall integrity and the risk of a sudden blowout, particularly at motorway speeds. The minor exhaust leak noted in the latest test could point to a deteriorating gasket, flexi-pipe, or corroded joint, which may worsen and affect emissions compliance or cabin fume ingress. Beyond the flagged items, the absence of structural or suspension advisories is encouraging, though the limited test history means corrosion or bush wear could simply not have been formally recorded. Have a specialist inspect subframe mounting points, suspension bushes, and coil springs for deterioration, and verify whether the minor oil leak seen in 2025 has progressed. The recurring brake wear across consecutive years also suggests driving style or conditions are accelerating consumable use, so budget for a full brake overhaul shortly after purchase.