2016 Audi Q3 2.0L Diesel · WM65 LWD

The most recent MOT test on 2026-01-23 resulted in a passing grade, though it revealed several persistent advisories that indicate ongoing wear and potential long-term risks if not addressed. The pattern of advisories over the past five years—particularly the repeated tyre edge wear, rear brake disc pitting, and suspension arm bush degradation—suggests a maintenance trend that has neither significantly improved nor stabilised. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT, the cumulative nature of these advisories, especially the tyre wear close to legal limits and the persistent rear brake disc conditions, warrants cautious optimism. The presence of a rear suspension arm pin or bush advisory in 2023, alongside the 2021 and 2020 brake disc wear advisories, implies that the vehicle’s suspension and braking systems have experienced gradual, but significant, wear progression, which could escalate if not serviced promptly. The recorded mileage of 65,090 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,509 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the consistency of advisories—particularly those related to tyre wear and brake conditions—suggests either prolonged periods of heavy or irregular use, or a lack of targeted maintenance to mitigate wear. Lower mileage could indicate lighter use or extended periods of stationary storage, which can exacerbate issues like brake disc corrosion from standing, or tyre sidewall perishing from age-related degradation. Conversely, higher mileage would imply accelerated wear on consumables, suspension components, and drivetrain elements, necessitating closer attention to fluid levels, lubrication, and structural integrity. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the tyres, brakes, suspension, and fluid conditions. Begin with the tyres: verify the depth of the tread on all four tyres, ensuring no further edge wear or nail damage has progressed beyond the advisories noted. Listen for uneven tyre wear patterns during the test drive, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The rear brake discs, which have shown consistent pitting and scoring, should be closely inspected for signs of corrosion, binding, or excessive heat damage, which could lead to reduced braking performance or disc warping. Check for any unusual noises—such as grinding, squeaking, or clunking—from the suspension, particularly around the lower control arms, which may indicate worn bushes or loose components. During the test drive, observe the vehicle’s handling for excessive play or excessive body roll, which could signal suspension wear affecting ride comfort and safety. In addition to the mechanical checks, focus on fluid levels and the vehicle’s overall condition. Given the age and mileage, the brake fluid should be replaced as part of a scheduled service, as old fluid can absorb moisture and reduce braking effectiveness. The engine oil and coolant should be checked for signs of contamination or degradation, with a full service recommended if the vehicle has been in use for several years without a comprehensive fluid change. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery is holding a charge, as a failing 12V system can lead to electrical gremlins and poor starting reliability. Lastly, verify that the service book or maintenance records are up to date, particularly for the suspension components and brake systems, to ensure any pending maintenance has been addressed. For a ten-year-old car with this level of recorded mileage, the buyer should also consider a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for signs of corrosion or leaks, as well as the structural integrity of the underbody, which can degrade over time due to road debris and environmental exposure.