2007 Audi A3 2.0L Diesel · SA07 FHC

The most recent MOT on 29 April 2026 was passed, the only recorded fault being a minor deterioration of the constant‑velocity (CV) boots on both drive‑shaft joints. Over the past six years the car has moved from a major failure in 2024 (rear fog lamp and off‑side CV boot) and a similar major fault in 2020 (anti‑roll‑bar dust‑cover wear) to a series of advisory items that have been addressed sufficiently to achieve a pass. The pattern shows that the vehicle’s maintenance has been largely reactive – major defects have been corrected, but a number of wear‑related items continue to recur, indicating a stable but not improving condition. At 166 709 mi the car has averaged roughly 8 800 mi per year over its 19‑year life, which sits comfortably within normal UK usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would suggest severe over‑use, but the cumulative distance does mean that wear items such as suspension bushings, brake discs, CV joints and engine seals will be approaching the end of their design life and should be inspected closely. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the CV boots on both drive shafts – look for fresh grease on the wheel arches, any splatter on the under‑tray and listen for a clicking or whine when accelerating from a standstill, which would indicate joint wear. The gearbox mounting that has been flagged as defective can manifest as a low‑frequency vibration or clunk when changing gears; a short test‑drive at varying speeds should reveal any abnormal chatter. Verify that the rear fog lamp functions, as the previous failure may have been remedied but could re‑appear if the bulb or wiring has degraded. The brake discs have been noted as pitted; feel for any pulsation or shudder through the pedal under hard braking and inspect the discs for deep scoring, especially on the rear where binding of the service brake was previously observed. Rear‑brake binding can cause premature pad wear and a slight drag on the pedal, so a stationary brake‑drag test is advisable. The rear shock absorbers were reported with light oil mist, so examine the shock bodies for any seepage and assess ride quality for excessive bounce or uneven tyre wear, which would suggest deteriorating seals. Given the car’s age, time‑related checks are essential. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening, even if tread depth appears adequate, as tyres older than ten years should be replaced regardless of mileage. Test the 12 V battery’s voltage and, if possible, its cranking amperage, as prolonged periods of standing can reduce capacity. Confirm that coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the manufacturer’s intervals – old fluids can become acidic and cause corrosion in the system. Look for rust on the chassis, wheel arches and under‑tray, especially around suspension mounting points and the anti‑roll‑bar dust covers, which should be free of corrosion and securely sealed. Finally, review the service book for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service, and any recorded replacement of wear items; a well‑documented history will give confidence that the vehicle has been kept in a road‑worthy state despite its age and mileage.