2016 Audi A3 1.4L Petrol · SC16 WUT

The most recent MOT on 9 October 2025 resulted in a failure, the examiner marking a dangerous defect on the nearside rear tyre where a bulge was observed, together with an advisory that the tyre‑pressure warning light was illuminated. This follows a pattern of rear‑wheel concerns: a major defect for the off‑side rear brake disc in October 2024, an advisory for the same disc in 2023, and tyre‑wear advisories in 2020 and 2025. The record therefore shows a trend of worsening rear‑axle components rather than a stable or improving maintenance history. At ten years old the car has logged 66 045 mi, which works out to roughly 6 600 mi per annum – a usage rate that sits comfortably within the normal range for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious large mileage gaps in the MOT log, suggesting the car has been driven fairly consistently rather than being stored for long periods and then used heavily. The moderate annual mileage means that most wear items will be driven by age as much as by distance, so components such as rubber seals, suspension bushings and brake discs are likely to be approaching the end of their service lives even if the mileage is modest. A prospective buyer should give the rear tyre a thorough visual and tactile inspection. The bulge on the nearside rear wheel indicates a structural failure of the carcass and the tyre must be replaced immediately; any accompanying sidewall cracking or uneven tread wear on the opposite rear tyre would also merit replacement. Verify that the tyre‑pressure monitoring sensor is functional and that the tyre pressures are set to the manufacturer’s specification, as a persistent warning light can mask a slow leak. The rear brake discs, especially the off‑side unit flagged as “significantly and obviously worn” in 2024, should be measured for thickness against the minimum safe limit (usually 1.5 mm for a 2016 Audi A3). Listen for any pulsation or shudder through the brake pedal at moderate speeds, and feel for a high‑pitched squeal or grinding that would indicate scoring beyond the advisory stage. If the discs are close to the minimum thickness, replacement of both rear discs and pads together is advisable to maintain balanced braking performance. Beyond the specific rear‑wheel issues, the car’s age calls for a comprehensive age‑related inspection. Examine the tyre sidewalls on all four wheels for dry‑rot or cracking, particularly if the vehicle has spent periods stationary. Check the under‑carriage for corrosion, especially around the suspension mounting points and exhaust system, as standing can accelerate rust in a ten‑year‑old hatchback. Test the 12 V battery voltage and load, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity and may fail unexpectedly. Inspect all fluid levels and condition – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – and look for any signs of leakage or discoloration that would indicate overdue servicing. Finally, review the service booklet for evidence of regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and any recorded work on the suspension or steering components; a well‑documented service history can offset some of the wear expected from a vehicle of this age.