1998 Volkswagen Golf 1.4L Petrol · S937 CGJ
1998 Volkswagen Golf (1.4L, petrol). First registered 22/10/1998. Recorded mileage 83,330 miles. MOT status: Expired.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- MOT Status
- Valid until 14/04/2025
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (01/12/2025)
- Recorded Mileage
- 83,330 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 1998
- Engine
- 1390cc
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
S937 CGJ Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 16/04/2024
- 83,330 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (6 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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S937 CGJ Mileage History
- 05/04/202272,221 mi
- 31/03/202377,465 mi+5,244 mi
- 11/04/202377,725 mi+260 mi
- 11/04/202377,725 mi
- 16/04/202483,330 mi+5,605 mi
Average of roughly 5,470 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
S937 CGJ MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Volkswagen Golf (S937 CGJ) between April 2022 and April 2024.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 16 April 2024 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (6 issues), Suspension (4 issues), Lighting (1 issue), Exhaust & Emissions (1 issue), Windscreen (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 15 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Offside Front Upper Shock absorbers has an excessively worn bush (5.3.2 (c))”; “Nearside Front Upper Shock absorbers has an excessively worn bush (5.3.2 (c))”; “Front Windscreen wiper does not clear the windscreen effectively (3.4 (b) (ii))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A sensible low-mileage classic that requires attention to aging mechanical components and interior trim. While the mileage is attractive, the history of recurring suspension issues and minor leaks suggests it needs diligent maintenance.
When inspecting this Golf, prioritize the mechanical health. The MOT records show a persistent 'not excessive' oil leak from the gearbox and engine since 2022; ask if this has been addressed or if the leak is worsening. Pay close attention to the suspension, as previous failures noted worn shock absorber bushes. You should also check if the driver seat mechanism and the wiper mechanism have been replaced, as these were noted as faults in recent tests.
Request a full service history to ensure the oil has been changed regularly, which is vital for these older VW engines. Given the age, check for structural rust around the wheel arches and sills, which is a common weakness for this generation. Negotiate based on the need for new front tyres and potential brake service work as highlighted in the 2024 advisory.
The 1.4L petrol engine is relatively economical, likely achieving around 35-40 MPG depending on driving conditions. As an older vehicle, it falls into a low tax band and generally lower insurance groups, making it affordable to run. Maintenance costs are low as parts are widely available and simple. Expect an annual running cost of approximately £700-£900 inclusive of fuel, tax, and routine servicing.
Inspect the front left tyre specifically; the 2024 MOT noted wear on the inside edge, which often indicates an alignment issue or worn suspension components. Check the front shock absorbers for leaks or excessive play, as the history shows a history of worn bushes in this area.
Test the windscreen system thoroughly. Multiple MOT failures have occurred due to wipers not clearing effectively. Additionally, check the driver's seat for functionality, as the 2024 advisory noted it does not tilt, which is a common mechanical failure in the Mk4 Golf interior trim.
This 1998 Volkswagen Golf sits at a relatively low mileage of 83,330 miles for its 28-year-age. While it has passed its most recent MOT, the history reveals a pattern of failures related to suspension, wipers, and minor oil leaks. The 1.4L engine is known for simplicity, but the documented condition indicates the car has been maintained with reactive repairs rather than preventative care.
The Mk4 Golf 1.4 units are generally robust but prone to minor oil leaks and plastic/trim wear and tear as they age.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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