2016 Audi Q3 2.0L Diesel · LB65 LPP

A consistent pass rate with minimal recorded defects defines the roadworthiness profile of this 2016 Audi Q3, supported by seven MOT tests on file from 2020 through 2026, with only one failure recorded in June 2023. That failure was a straightforward headlamp aim issue on the nearside front lamp, classed as a prs repairable item, which was evidently corrected to allow the vehicle to pass the same day under the same advisory for a nearside front tyre cut. Since that 2023 episode, the vehicle has returned three consecutive clean passes with no advisories or failures, and the most recent test on 1 July 2026 recorded no defects at all. The pattern suggests a vehicle that has remained largely free of structural, braking, or emissions concerns over the recorded test history, with the only flagged items being minor cosmetic or alignment issues on the front tyres and headlamp. Against an age of around ten years, the recorded mileage of 79,682 miles equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 7,968 miles, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no significant gaps between test dates that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, with tests occurring at fairly regular annual intervals from 2020 onwards, and the mileage progression between tests appears consistent with normal year-round driving rather than intermittent or sporadic use. This kind of regular use is generally positive for mechanical components, as it tends to keep seals, dampers, and drivetrain parts working consistently, though it does mean the usual wear items for a vehicle approaching a decade old will need to be budgeted for. At this mileage point, timing chains, water pumps, and suspension bushes on a Q3 of this generation are approaching the stage where replacement may be due or recently required. Given that the recorded advisories relate entirely to the front tyres, with a nearside front cut noted in 2023 and offside front wear and nearside front damage and perishing noted in 2021, it is worth paying particular attention to the front axle on a test drive. Uneven or inner-edge wear on the front tyres can point to worn suspension bushes, droplinks, or top mounts, which are known wear items on Q3s at this mileage, so listen for clonks or knocks from the front end when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces. Any vagueness in the steering, pulling to one side under braking, or vibration through the steering wheel could suggest worn front dampers, top mounts, or tracking issues that have not yet manifested as an MOT failure. The headlamp aim failure recorded in 2023 is a relatively common prs item and can simply result from a bulb change or a minor knock, but it is sensible to confirm that both front lamps are set to a level position and that the headlight range control system is functioning correctly. On the road, check that the vehicle tracks straight without drift, that the electronic parking brake releases cleanly, and that the quattro all-wheel-drive system does not produce any clonks or binding sensations during tight low-speed manoeuvres, as these can indicate wear in the rear differential or haldex coupling. Finally, a thorough underbody inspection for corrosion, paying particular attention to the subframe, brake pipes, and suspension arms, would be prudent given the age of the vehicle, alongside a check for any oil seepage from the engine and transmission, none of which were flagged in the MOT record but are typical areas to verify on a Q3 approaching ten years of service.