2014 Volkswagen Golf 2.0L Petrol · AV14 RZT

A recurring theme in the MOT record is progressive tyre wear combined with the presence of under‑trays that restrict full visual inspection, culminating in a failure on 28 February 2023 when an off‑side front tyre was judged to have a cut deep enough to reach the ply. Subsequent tests have continued to flag tyres on the front, rear and off‑side as being close to the legal limit, and the most recent pass on 12 March 2026 still carries advisories for an off‑side front tyre worn on the edge and rear brake pads showing deterioration. The pattern shows a vehicle whose primary road‑worthiness concerns are tyre condition and limited access for thorough checks rather than systemic mechanical faults. At 106 383 miles the car averages roughly 8 800 miles per year, a mileage rate that sits comfortably within normal usage for a 2014 model. Annual MOTs have been recorded without significant gaps, indicating the vehicle has been kept on the road consistently rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This steady kilometre accumulation aligns with the observed tyre wear; tyres that have been used for this distance will naturally approach the end of their service life, especially if driven on a mix of urban and higher‑speed routes. Prospective buyers should give the tyres immediate attention. Inspect tread depth on all four wheels, paying particular focus to the off‑side front where a cut was previously recorded, and to the rear where edge wear and low inner tread have been repeatedly noted. Look for any visible cuts, bulges or exposed cords, and verify that the tread depth exceeds the legal 1.6 mm across the central three‑quarter of the tyre width. During a test drive, feel for vibration or pulsation at higher speeds, which can indicate uneven wear or internal damage, and listen for any thumping that may suggest a tyre separating from the bead. The rear brake pad advisory suggests the pads are nearing the end of their usable life. Examine the rear discs for scoring and listen for a high‑pitched squeal or feel a soft, spongy pedal, both of which are typical signs of worn pads. While no suspension or structural defects have been recorded, the pattern of uneven tyre wear warrants a visual check of the front suspension bushes, tie‑rod ends and wheel alignment; any play or pulling to one side under braking could point to underlying geometry issues that will need correction once the tyres are replaced. Finally, ensure the under‑trays can be removed or inspected for hidden corrosion or damage, as their obstruction has repeatedly limited MOT access and could conceal future defects.