2017 Volkswagen Golf 1.6L Diesel · EY12 AMY

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf presented for assessment most recently passed its MOT on 30 April 2026, although the test recorded two minor defects relating to the nearside front windscreen wiper blade and a small area of windscreen damage that did not impede the driver's view, alongside three advisories concerning both rear tyres and a nearside rear suspension arm pin or bush. Looking at the broader trend across the recorded MOT history, there is a discernible accumulation of advisories rather than a stable pattern, with the 2024 and 2025 tests flagging front shock absorber oil misting, pitted and scored front brake discs, a corroded rear coil spring, and front tyres worn down to near the legal limit on their inner edges. The 2025 test initially failed on headlamp aim before passing on the same date, and the front tyre wear issue recurred, suggesting that whatever was causing the inner-edge wear was not rectified between tests. The latest 2026 result is largely clean of major advisories, but the rear suspension component now flagged represents a new wear item, indicating progressive rather than improving deterioration of the suspension and undercarriage components. In terms of mileage, the Golf has covered 93,843 miles over approximately nine years, equating to an annual average of around 10,427 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and consistent with regular mixed use rather than prolonged standing or excessive long-distance driving. There are no obvious large gaps in the mileage progression visible from the recorded tests, suggesting continuous use which is generally favourable for mechanical components as it avoids prolonged static degradation. However, the cumulative effect of nearly 94,000 miles is reflected clearly in the advisory history, with brake discs, suspension bushes, coil springs, tyres and dampers all showing age-related wear. At this mileage, the timing chain, clutch, dual-mass flywheel (if applicable to the gearbox variant), and turbocharger (if fitted) are components approaching the upper end of their expected service life and warrant close inspection independent of the MOT record. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the recurring advisories when physically inspecting the vehicle or taking a test drive. The front shock absorber oil misting noted across three consecutive tests from 2024 onwards suggests the offside front damper is gradually failing; during a road test, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, and observe whether the vehicle settles unevenly after pressing down on each front corner. The pitted front brake discs should be inspected for lipping at the outer edge and felt through the steering wheel for brake shudder or vibration under firm pedalling, particularly at higher speeds, as this indicates disc run-out and likely necessitates disc replacement. The flagged nearside rear suspension bush wear should be checked by rocking the wheel top-to-bottom and side-to-side at the rear to detect any excessive play or clonking, while a corroded rear coil spring warrants a visual inspection for cracking or fracture, as a failed spring can allow the vehicle to sit low on one corner and may produce a loud clang if it breaks while in motion. The inner-edge wear on the front tyres flagged in 2025, if not already addressed, points to potential tracking misalignment, worn suspension geometry, or worn front bushes; the vehicle should be test-driven in a straight line to verify the steering is centred and the car does not pull to either side. Beyond the advisory-specific concerns, the age and mileage of this Golf warrant several additional practical checks that are not always captured by MOT testing. Both rear tyres are now showing cracking and perishing damage, which is a typical age-related failure of the rubber compound independent of tread depth, so all four tyres should be inspected closely for sidewall crazing and replaced as a matched pair or set if significant deterioration is visible. Given the vehicle's nine-year age, the 12-volt battery is likely nearing the end of its service life and should be load-tested to confirm its state of health, while all fluid-based service items including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid (if applicable) should be verified as recently changed through service records, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and degrades on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. The exhaust system, particularly the centre and rear silencer plus mounting rubbers, should be physically checked for corrosion and security, and the underbody inspected for any fresh corrosion or fluid leaks that would not be apparent from the MOT record. A comprehensive service history with stamped or documented evidence of cambelt or timing chain servicing, brake fluid changes, and recent suspension component replacement would substantially strengthen confidence in this vehicle's continued roadworthiness.