2016 Audi Q3 2.0L Diesel · RO05 PSS

The most recent MOT test on 29 December 2025 resulted in a pass, but only after the vehicle initially failed on the same date due to a dangerous nearside rear tyre exhibiting a bulge caused by structural separation of the outer sidewall, alongside the longstanding advisory regarding offside rear brake disc wear. Both the tyre failure and the brake disc advisory reappeared from the previous test in January 2025, indicating that the rear brake discs have been flagged across consecutive examinations and that the tyres on this vehicle are approaching the end of their serviceable life. The maintenance trend is therefore best characterised as stable but with persistent wear items requiring imminent attention, rather than genuinely improving; the rear brake condition has not been rectified across two test cycles, and the tyres have now reached a dangerous state of deterioration. With a recorded mileage of 38,554 miles across approximately ten years, this Audi Q3 has covered around 3,850 miles annually, which is exceptionally low for a vehicle of this age and substantially below the typical annual mileage for a compact SUV. Such low usage suggests either predominantly short urban journeys or extended periods of standing, both of which carry their own mechanical consequences. Short journeys prevent the engine, exhaust system, and diesel particulate filter from reaching full operating temperature, leading to potential oil dilution, carbon accumulation, and moisture build-up within the oils, while prolonged standing allows brake discs to corrode and bind, tyres to develop flat spots or sidewall perishing, and the 12V battery to lose capacity through natural discharge cycles. The relatively low overall mileage means the drivetrain itself is unlikely to be heavily worn, but calendar-based degradation of fluids and rubbers becomes the more pressing concern. A prospective buyer should begin with a thorough physical inspection of the tyres, paying particular attention to the nearside rear and offside rear positions where perishing and damage have previously been noted. Even though the dangerous nearside rear tyre will have been replaced for the test to pass, the remaining tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking, tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, and any uneven wear patterns that might indicate suspension misalignment or worn bushes. The offside rear brake disc should be inspected for ridge formation at the outer edge and excessive pitting or scoring, and the caliper slide pins should be checked for free movement; on a test drive, listen for any rear brake squeal or grinding and feel for any pulsation through the brake pedal under firm application. Given the DVSA history, replacement of both rear discs and pads is a realistic prospect at the point of purchase. Beyond the recorded defects, the age and low mileage profile warrant a series of precautionary checks. The 12V battery should be load tested, as a ten-year-old unit even with low mileage will be approaching the end of its reliable service life and may struggle in colder weather. Brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid should be verified as recently changed, as these degrade on a calendar basis irrespective of mileage and are commonly neglected on low-use vehicles. Underneath the car, inspect the coil springs, anti-roll bar bushes, and lower suspension arms for any corrosion or splitting consistent with a vehicle that has endured British winters, and examine the exhaust system for rust at the mounting points and joints. Finally, request the full service history to confirm that cambelt or timing chain servicing and oil changes have been carried out at the manufacturer-specified intervals, since low annual mileage can lull owners into skipping time-based services.