2022 Audi A3 S Line 35 Tfsi Mhev S-A 1.5L Petrol · LS22 LUB

The most recent MOT on 25 August 2026 was a pass, albeit with an advisory noting a fluctuating service brake but no excessive surface rust on the discs. The preceding test in July 2026 recorded a failure for an off‑side rear seat‑belt fault and an advisory that the corresponding door could not be opened from the interior. With only one clean pass in the three‑year record and a recent failure, the maintenance trend appears to be stabilising but still shows isolated safety‑related concerns that require verification before purchase. At 35,327 miles the 2022 Audi A3 S‑Line averages roughly 8,800 miles per annum, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a four‑year‑old compact executive. The mileage does not suggest excessive wear from high‑kilometre abuse, yet it also indicates the car has been driven enough to have engaged most wear items such as brake pads, tyres and suspension components. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage that would imply prolonged periods of standing, but the relatively modest annual figure does mean that age‑related degradation of rubber and fluid seals could be progressing independently of distance travelled. The fluctuating service brake advisory warrants a hands‑on inspection of the braking system. Check the pedal for any pulsation, sponginess or a high‑pitched squeal under moderate pressure, and verify that the brake discs are free of deep scoring or uneven wear that might have been masked by surface rust. Given the recent seat‑belt failure, confirm that the off‑side rear belt retracts smoothly, locks firmly when pulled, and that the associated door latch operates correctly from both inside and outside. Any hesitation, grinding noises from the door mechanism, or a belt that does not restrain firmly should be rectified before the vehicle is driven regularly, as these are safety‑critical items. Beyond the recorded defects, a four‑year‑old model should be examined for age‑related issues. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or uneven tread wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or suspension wear; the front coil‑spring and damper bushes should be checked for play or clunking when the steering wheel is rocked at a standstill. Verify the 12 V battery voltage and its ability to hold charge, especially if the car has spent time idle, and ensure the coolant, brake and gearbox fluids have been replaced in line with the manufacturer’s calendar service intervals. Finally, confirm that the service book bears the appropriate stamps for oil changes, filter replacements and any software updates, as these underpin long‑term reliability of the MHEV powertrain.