AUDI S3 (2018)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 100 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
93%
Total Tests (2024)
100
Avg Mileage
48,229 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,772
Is the 2018 AUDI S3 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 11 points above the national average of 82%.
At 6 years old, 93% of AUDI S3s from 2018 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 100 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 48,229 miles.
How does the 2018 AUDI S3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2018 AUDI S3 has 48,229 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 44,400 miles for a 6-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a AUDI S3?
The most reliable year is the 2017 model with a 96% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 72%. The 2018 sits between the two at 93%.
How much does a 2018 AUDI S3 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 S3 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 96% | 49 | 32,831 mi |
| 2018 | 93% | 100 | 48,229 mi |
| 2017 | 96% | 135 | 60,095 mi |
| 2016 | 93% | 190 | 61,138 mi |
| 2015 | 94% | 537 | 70,456 mi |
| 2014 | 91% | 1,975 | 75,271 mi |
| 2013 | 92% | 616 | 80,060 mi |
| 2012 | 87% | 341 | 88,186 mi |
| 2011 | 87% | 835 | 89,620 mi |
| 2010 | 85% | 1,034 | 96,246 mi |
| 2009 | 88% | 643 | 100,681 mi |
| 2008 | 85% | 620 | 114,238 mi |
| 2007 | 84% | 671 | 117,265 mi |
| 2006 | 81% | 54 | 112,877 mi |
| 2003 | 72% | 235 | 137,030 mi |
| 2002 | 80% | 362 | 128,988 mi |
| 2001 | 80% | 237 | 123,516 mi |
| 2000 | 79% | 141 | 132,942 mi |
| 1999 | 76% | 132 | 143,273 mi |
Checking a specific AUDI S3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2018 AUDI S3
The 2018 AUDI S3 is a premium with a 1998cc petrol engine. 100 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2018, the average MOT pass rate is 89%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 48,229 miles at 6 years old, AUDI S3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2018 AUDI S3 Fuel Costs
The 1998cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2018 AUDI S3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,772 (£148/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 93% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
AUDI S3 Reliability Trend
Newer AUDI S3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 10 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2018 AUDI S3
At 6 years old, the AUDI S3 offers good value with plenty of life remaining. Most manufacturer warranties will have expired, so a pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost. If you're flexible on year, the 2017 model has the highest pass rate at 96%.
Alternatives to the 2018 AUDI S3
The AUDI S3 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premiums from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2016) 87% pass rate (-6%) from 109,880 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2019) 92% pass rate (-1%) from 89,653 tests
- FORD KUGA (2018) 90% pass rate (-3%) from 67,605 tests
- MINI COOPER (2018) 92% pass rate (-1%) from 55,706 tests