2012 Audi A3 1.6L Petrol · MJ12 VDG

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of worsening suspension-related wear. While the most recent MOT test in May 2026 at 150,362 miles passed, the tester identified corrosion on both rear suspension arms and a severely deteriorated dust cover on the offside front anti-roll bar linkage. These issues represent a progression from the minor front bushing wear noted in previous years, suggesting that the lower chassis components are reaching the end of their functional life and require proactive replacement. The mileage pattern is consistent with a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 10,740 miles per year. The record shows steady accumulation from 113,036 miles in May 2023 to 150,362 miles in May 2026, representing an average increase of roughly 12,400 miles annually. This regular usage suggests the car has not been left sitting for long periods, which explains the consistent wear on consumables like brake discs, tyres, and shock absorbers documented across the test history. A buyer must conduct a close inspection of the front shock absorbers, which have been flagged for oil misting since at least 2023. While they have not yet failed, the persistent misting over three years indicates the seals are failing. Particular attention should be paid to the corrosion on the rear suspension arms identified in the 2026 test to ensure the structural integrity has not progressed beyond the current advisory state. Given the previous reports of thin brake pads and worn discs in 2024, a full brake system check is necessary to verify if these components were replaced since the last inspection.