2009 Volkswagen Golf 2.0L Diesel · AF09 VUL

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a concerning shift toward reactive repairs. While it passed its most recent test in January 2026 at 85,736 miles, it failed just days prior due to multiple safety-critical defects. The tester flagged thin rear brake pads and an imbalanced front braking system that barely met legal requirements, suggesting that the owner is only addressing mechanical issues when an MOT is imminent rather than performing routine preventative maintenance. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 85,736 miles is significantly low, averaging approximately 5,000 miles per year. This low usage often masks mechanical wear on the drivetrain, but it frequently leads to the degradation of rubber components due to age. Between January 2024 and January 2025, the car covered roughly 6,600 miles, yet it failed that test due to perished tyres and insufficient tread. This pattern indicates the vehicle may sit stationary for long periods, causing sidewalls to crack despite the low distance driven. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system, as the recurring imbalance issues noted in the 2026 test indicate a potentially sticking caliper or worn slider pins. The repeated failures regarding tyre tread depth across the 2025 and 2026 tests suggest a lack of attention to basic upkeep. Given the age of the Golf, the physical inspection should also prioritise checking structural corrosion on the sills and underbody, as well as inspecting suspension bushes which are prone to cracking over time regardless of low mileage.