2009 Volkswagen Golf 1.4L Petrol · AF09 WUP

The most recent MOT, carried out on 6 March 2026, was recorded as a Pass, with only an advisory that the rear brake pads are wearing thin. This follows a series of recent failures, notably the dangerous tyre‑tread warnings in early 2023 and the major coil‑spring fractures in early 2024, but the vehicle has subsequently cleared both the 2024 and 2025 tests after remedial work. The trend therefore appears to be improving – major safety defects have been addressed – although the persistence of thin rear brake pads and tyre‑wear advisories indicates that some wear items are reaching the end of their service life and will need attention soon. At 113,125 miles on a 2009 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6,650 miles per year, which is well below the typical UK usage of 10‑12 000 miles per annum. Such low utilisation often points to periods of prolonged inactivity, which can accelerate the ageing of rubber components, battery plates and seals even when the odometer shows modest wear. The relatively low mileage does not, however, guarantee the condition of wear items that are time‑dependent, such as tyres, brake discs and suspension bushes, and the vehicle’s history of standing periods should be taken into account when assessing overall mechanical health. A prospective buyer should give particular focus to the front tyre condition and the rear brake system. Verify that the front tyres have been replaced since the 2023 dangerous‑tread failures; look for a tread depth of at least 3 mm across the whole width and inspect the sidewalls for cracking, bulging or dry‑rot, which are common in tyres that have sat for long periods. On a test drive listen for any thumping or vibration that may indicate uneven wear or a hidden defect in the wheel bearings. The rear brake pads are already flagged as thin, so check the pad thickness directly and examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing; a pulsating pedal or squealing noise would suggest that the discs may also need resurfacing or replacement. The front coil springs, which were recorded as fractured in 2024, should be confirmed as replaced – a sagging front ride height, clunking over bumps or a noticeable dip when the vehicle is loaded are classic symptoms of a compromised spring or mounting. Similarly, the off‑side front anti‑roll bar ball joint that was deemed excessively worn can produce a loose feel in cornering and a knocking sound from the front suspension; ensure the joint has been fitted with a new unit and that the bushings are in good condition. Beyond the items highlighted in the MOT record, the buyer should conduct a thorough age‑related inspection. Check the 12‑volt battery for corrosion on the terminals and test its cranking voltage, as batteries older than five years often lose capacity even with low mileage. Examine all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for correct levels, colour and any signs of contamination; fluids degrade over time and should be replaced on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Look for corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches and under the sills, which can be exacerbated by standing in damp conditions. Verify that the seat‑belt retractors operate smoothly without jerky retraction, as the near‑side rear belt was previously flagged defective. Finally, confirm that the exhaust leak noted in 2025 has been rectified, checking for any hissing noises, soot deposits around the manifold or a noticeable drop in engine idle quality, all of which would indicate a lingering leak. A complete service book with stamps for major component replacements will give added confidence that the vehicle’s maintenance has kept pace with its age and mileage.