Advice for buyers
What should I look for in a used Audi A3 hatchback?
Bodywork
Not all versions of the A3 came with parking sensors, so check the bumpers and body panels for dents and scratches. Also, watch out for poor quality paint repairs, because any substandard work will void the bodywork warranty and could lead to potential rust problems.
Rear head restraint
Poor welds attaching the rear headrest to the rear backrest of some A3s manufactured between 20 May 2018 and 2 September 2018 posed a safety issue. Affected cars had to have the whole backrest replaced, so check with your dealer that this has been done.
DPF
All diesel models will come equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) that’s designed to trap soot from the exhaust then burn it off later. If the DPF light comes on, you must take the vehicle on a longer drive at a higher speed to clear the filter.
Is a used Audi A3 hatchback reliable?
The Audi A3's reliability depends on which engine it has. In last year's What Car? Reliability Survey, petrol models finished lower down the rankings in 17th place, but diesel models managed to climb up to the lofty heights of 2nd, just behind the Hyundai i30. In the latest survey, the A3 finished in 18th place out of 24 cars in the family car class.
