2017 Volkswagen Golf 1.4L Petrol · CJ17 DAO

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a concerning trend of reactive rather than proactive care. The most recent test in September 2025 at 47,517 miles revealed significant degradation of the braking system, noting corroded and scored discs on all four wheels alongside a perished and split sidewall on the nearside rear tyre. While the vehicle passed, the presence of these defects suggests that components are being allowed to reach a state of failure or near-failure before being addressed. The mileage profile is notably low for a nine-year-old Golf, averaging approximately 5,280 miles per year. This low-usage pattern is evident in the gaps between tests, such as the 12,409-mile increase between December 2022 and September 2025. However, low mileage often correlates with age-related deterioration of rubber components. The 2025 failure regarding a split tyre sidewall is a classic indicator that the vehicle likely sat for long periods, leading to dry rot despite the low number of miles driven. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the braking assembly to ensure the pitting and scoring noted in 2025 have been professionally rectified with new discs and pads rather than just superficially cleaned. The history shows recurring issues with windscreen wipers in 2022 and 2023, indicating a pattern of neglecting basic maintenance items until they fail inspection. Inspect all suspension bushes and sidewalls for cracking or perishing, as the low mileage-high age ratio increases the likelihood of material fatigue that exceeds mechanical wear and tear.