2021 Audi A3 Technik 30 Tfsi Mhev S-A 1.0L Petrol · SW21 EWJ

A clear pattern emerges from the MOT history of this 2021 Audi A3 Technik 30 TFSI MHEV, centred on the front brake discs rather than any structural or emissions concern. The car passed its most recent test on 15 November 2025 with no advisories, which represents a return to a clean sheet after the previous December's flags. However, the 2024-12-10 failed test and the subsequent pass two days later on 2024-12-12 both carried identical advisories for worn, pitted, and scored nearside and offside front brake discs. The fact that the same components were noted across two consecutive tests within the same month suggests the discs were borderline at the time of inspection, even though they were ultimately deemed not seriously weakened. No further brake or suspension advisories appear in any of the four recorded tests, and there is no history of corrosion, lighting failures, exhaust issues, or structural defects. The recorded mileage of 44,809 miles across four MOT tests from 2024 to late 2025 reflects an annual accumulation of roughly 8,900 to 9,000 miles, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a five-year-old vehicle of this class. There are no extended gaps between tests that would imply long periods off the road with possible deterioration of brakes, tyres, or underbody components, nor is there any evidence of unusually rapid mileage progression between tests that might indicate inconsistent record-keeping or heavy commercial use. The relatively even spread of mileage across the tests is consistent with steady private or commuter use, and the modest annual figure means the brake disc wear flagged in late 2024 is proportionate to the mileage covered rather than a sign of any abnormal loading or harsh driving. For a prospective buyer, the immediate priority is a physical inspection of the front brake discs and pads, given they were the only components specifically highlighted in the record. On a test drive, listen for any scraping, grinding, or high-pitched squeal from the front wheels when pulling away from low speed, which would suggest the pitted discs have now progressed to the point of requiring replacement rather than the simple refacing that may have been carried out between the December 2024 tests. Feel for any vibration or pulsation through the brake pedal or steering wheel under firm braking, as this typically indicates disc thickness variation or runout. Visually inspect both front discs for a deep groove at the outer edge, visible lip, or a blueing of the metal surface, all of which point to discs that have reached the end of their service life. Given the MHEV mild-hybrid system, it is also worth confirming that the 48V auxiliary battery and its associated control module have been diagnosed recently, although no related defects have been recorded. Beyond the brake discs, the rest of the vehicle's MOT record supports a broadly reassuring mechanical baseline, with no advisories relating to the suspension arms, bushes, coil springs, anti-roll bar linkages, brake pipes, or underbody corrosion that commonly affect A3s of this generation. On a test drive, pay attention to any clonks or knocks from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, as these would indicate worn drop links or control arm bushes not yet at advisory threshold. Steering should feel precise and self-centring without pulling to either side under acceleration or braking. Check the 12V battery behaviour during start-up, as stop-start function on mild-hybrid vehicles can mask a weakening conventional battery, and verify that the auto start-stop system operates correctly when the engine is warm. Finally, ensure the tyre sidewalls show no cuts or bulges and that all four tyres have even tread wear, given the previous failure for an excessively deep nearside front tyre cut.