AUDI A3 (2016)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 75,823 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
90%
Total Tests (2024)
75,823
Avg Mileage
68,522 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,295
Is the 2016 AUDI A3 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 8 points above the national average of 82%.
At 8 years old, 90% of AUDI A3s from 2016 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 75,823 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 68,522 miles.
How does the 2016 AUDI A3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2016 AUDI A3 has 68,522 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 59,200 miles for a 8-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a AUDI A3?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2016 sits between the two at 90%.
How much does a 2016 AUDI A3 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
AUDI A3 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 94% | 547 | 26,069 mi |
| 2020 | 93% | 10,059 | 34,019 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 41,215 | 42,207 mi |
| 2018 | 92% | 54,110 | 49,870 mi |
| 2017 | 91% | 68,023 | 59,583 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 75,823 | 68,522 mi |
| 2015 | 88% | 80,797 | 78,897 mi |
| 2014 | 86% | 77,639 | 89,137 mi |
| 2013 | 84% | 55,981 | 99,882 mi |
| 2012 | 80% | 52,278 | 108,680 mi |
| 2011 | 79% | 44,226 | 116,751 mi |
| 2010 | 77% | 50,328 | 117,064 mi |
| 2009 | 77% | 46,405 | 123,921 mi |
| 2008 | 76% | 39,032 | 129,049 mi |
| 2007 | 75% | 30,361 | 136,508 mi |
| 2006 | 73% | 24,088 | 138,100 mi |
| 2005 | 72% | 15,865 | 139,734 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 7,027 | 137,597 mi |
| 2003 | 74% | 3,274 | 137,992 mi |
| 2002 | 72% | 2,361 | 141,296 mi |
| 2001 | 74% | 1,685 | 130,310 mi |
| 2000 | 71% | 1,019 | 128,899 mi |
| 1999 | 72% | 888 | 127,410 mi |
| 1998 | 70% | 872 | 125,923 mi |
| 1997 | 68% | 385 | 128,771 mi |
Checking a specific AUDI A3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2016 AUDI A3
The 2016 AUDI A3 is a premium with a 1598cc diesel engine. 75,823 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2016, the average MOT pass rate is 85%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 68,522 miles at 8 years old, AUDI A3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2016 AUDI A3 Fuel Costs
The 1598cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2016 AUDI A3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,295 (£108/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 90% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
AUDI A3 Reliability Trend
Newer AUDI A3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2016 AUDI A3
At 8 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 94%. With 75,823 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2016 AUDI A3
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2017) 91% pass rate (+1%) from 127,682 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2014) 79% pass rate (-11%) from 90,897 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2018) 89% pass rate (-1%) from 82,066 tests
- MERCEDES A-CLASS (2017) 88% pass rate (-2%) from 82,055 tests