2001 Volkswagen Golf 1.6L Petrol · CX51 ATN
2001 Volkswagen Golf (1.6L, petrol). First registered 05 Sept 2001. Recorded mileage 80,534 miles. MOT expired on 13 Aug 2025.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Bangor
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 13 Aug 2025
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 80,534 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
CX51 ATN Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 26/07/2024
- 80,534 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (11 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
CX51 ATN 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 2001 Volkswagen Golf (CX51 ATN) between August 2022 and July 2024.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 26 July 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: Suspension (11 issues), Brakes (9 issues), Lighting (5 issues), Tyres (5 issues), Bodywork (4 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 31 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: “Nearside Rear Brake pipe excessively corroded (1.1.11 (c))”; “Anti-lock braking system warning lamp indicates an ABS fault (1.6 (b))”; “Nearside Rear Position lamp not working (4.2.1 (a) (ii))”.
CX51 ATN Mileage History
- 08/08/202266,524 mi
- 01/08/202373,356 mi+6,832 mi
- 03/08/202373,356 mi
- 24/07/202480,532 mi+7,176 mi
- 26/07/202480,534 mi+2 mi
Average of roughly 7,125 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution. While the mileage is reasonable for the age, the history of structural corrosion and recurring mechanical failures makes this a high-risk purchase for most buyers.
The primary focus for this vehicle must be a thorough structural inspection. The MOT history has repeatedly noted corroded corrosion on the rear sub-frame and outer sills; while these were marked as 'not seriously weakened', corrosion is often progressive. You should ask for any welding performed on these areas, as the cost of structural repair can quickly exceed the car's value.
Mechanically, check the ABS system thoroughly, as this has caused major failures in multiple tests. Additionally, inspect the rear suspension arms and springs, as the car shows a history of fractured springs and excessively worn bushes. Ensure there is a consistent service history to support the 1.6L engine, as low-mileage cars of this age often suffer from neglected fluids if not driven regularly.
The 1.6L petrol engine is relatively efficient for its era, likely achieving 35-45 mpg depending on driving. As a 2001 model, it likely falls into a lower tax band and insurance group compared to modern equivalents, keeping fixed costs manageable.
Maintenance may be higher than average due to the age of the vehicle, specifically regarding rubber components, suspension, and brake lines. Expect an annual running cost including fuel, tax, and basic maintenance to be upwards around £1,100-£1,300.
Get the car on a lift to inspect the rear sub-frame and integral sills. The MOT history specifically mentions corrosion in these areas; you need to determine if the rust is surface deep or if the metal is losing integrity. Check the fuel tank straps as well, as these were noted as corroded.
Examine the braking system and suspension closely. The car has a history of binding rear brakes, corroded brake pipes, and ABS faults. Look for cracks in the rear coil springs and check the condition of the suspension arm bushes for excessive play, as these have been recurring points of failure for this specific vehicle.
This 2001 Volkswagen Golf sits at approximately 80,500 miles, which is well below the typical expected mileage for a 25-year-old car. However, the recent MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of structural corrosion affecting the rear sub-frame, sills, and fuel tank straps. Recent failures related to ABS faults and suspension components suggest a vehicle that is currently beginning to struggle with significant maintenance requirements and age-related wear.
The Mk4 Golf is generally considered robust, but early-millennium examples are prone to structural rust and suspension wear 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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