2016 Audi Q3 2.0L Petrol · TO04 MYP

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 11 February 2026 was a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which on the surface is encouraging. However, looking back across the history, the maintenance trend shows a recurring and worsening issue rather than genuine improvement. The front lower suspension arm pin or bush has been flagged as worn on the nearside and offside at every test from 2022 through to 2025, with the 2025 advisory specifically noting that the mounting bushes were partly split. Although this defect has not yet resulted in failure, the consistent year-on-year observation indicates progressive wear of a component that will eventually require replacement. The 2025 test also recorded inner-edge tyre wear on both front tyres, a symptom often associated with suspension geometry being affected by the deteriorating bushes. A clean 2026 pass suggests the components may have been renewed or have not yet deteriorated to testable limits, but the underlying pattern should not be ignored. With 64,676 miles recorded over a 10-year period, the vehicle averages around 6,468 miles per year, which is broadly typical for its age and not unusual for a compact premium SUV. The mileage progression across the recorded tests appears consistent and steady, with no large gaps that would suggest long periods of standing, nor any sudden surges that would indicate particularly hard use. At this level of annual mileage, wear on major mechanical components should be moderate rather than severe, but the vehicle is now a decade old, which introduces age-related deterioration that mileage alone does not capture. Items such as rubber seals, coolant hoses, timing chain components, and electrical systems are all subject to calendar-based degradation regardless of how few miles have been covered. Given the recurring suspension advisories, particular attention should be paid to the front suspension on inspection. The lower control arm bushes on both sides have been repeatedly flagged, and on a test drive you should listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end, particularly over speed bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces. Imprecise steering, vague turn-in, or uneven inner-edge tyre wear on any replacement tyres fitted since the last test would further suggest the bushes have finally deteriorated beyond acceptable limits. It is also worth asking whether the control arms or bushes have been replaced since the 2025 advisory, as this would explain the clean 2026 result, or whether the vehicle has been driven very gently to keep play within tolerance. A physical inspection on a ramp would be advisable to check for any play in the front suspension joints and to assess the condition of the tyres for uneven wear patterns. Beyond the documented suspension concerns, a buyer should carry out several age- and mileage-appropriate checks. At ten years old, the 12-volt battery is likely due for replacement and should be load-tested, as modern Audis are sensitive to voltage drops which can trigger warning lights and electronic faults. Brake discs and calipers may have developed corrosion or binding from standing or light use, so the car should be driven firmly to check for any juddering or pulling under braking, and the discs inspected for lipping or surface rust. Brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox oil are all time-serviced items and should be checked for condition and service history, particularly given the 2024 advisory noting coolant below minimum, which may indicate a slow leak or simply inattention. Tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking or perishing regardless of tread depth, as ten-year-old rubber can deteriorate from age alone. Finally, verify the cam belt or chain replacement interval according to Audi's schedule, confirm the full service history with stamps in the book, and ensure the vehicle is presented with two working keys and a cleared diagnostic fault memory before purchase.