2009 Volkswagen Golf 1.4L Petrol · FE59 JVM

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness trend as the maintenance history reveals a pattern of reactive rather than proactive care. The most recent test in February 2026 at 161,257 miles resulted in a failure due to multiple defects including a deteriorated drive shaft boot, an oil leak, and thin brake pads. While the vehicle passed immediately after these repairs, the recurring nature of the offside front drive shaft issues across multiple years suggests that the owner only addresses components when they reach failure point rather than performing preventative maintenance. At 161,257 miles over 17 years, the Golf averages approximately 9,500 miles per year, which aligns with typical national averages for a car of this age. The data shows consistent usage with roughly 17,000 miles covered between January 2024 and February 2025, and another 17,000 miles between February 2025 and February 2026. This steady accumulation indicates the vehicle is used regularly, which accelerates wear on rubber components, suspension bushings, and braking systems that are clearly reflected in the MOT record. A buyer must closely inspect the front suspension and drivetrain assembly. The offside front drive shaft boot has been a persistent failure point since at least 2025, indicating a potential for internal damage to the CV joint if the boot was not replaced alongside the boot. The record also shows a chronic history of thin brake pads and worn discs across all three tests, suggesting the braking system is frequently run to its. Additionally, the misting on the nearside rear shock absorber noted in 2025 should be checked to ensure the seal has not progressed to a full leak, which would compromise handling and tire wear.