2016 Volkswagen Golf 1.6L Diesel · FN16 VGP

The most recent MOT test on 2026-02-13 resulted in a passing grade, though it highlighted two persistent tyre wear advisories—both front tyres showing significant edge wear and proximity to the legal limit, particularly on the near-side at 3mm depth. This pattern of recurring advisories, present in the 2019 and 2026 tests, suggests a fundamental issue with tyre alignment or handling geometry, likely linked to either worn suspension components or misaligned steering components. While the intervening MOTs between 2023 and 2026 have been clean, the persistence of these advisories indicates either an unresolved underlying problem or a gradual progression of wear that has not yet triggered a failure. The absence of any failures in the last three years does not mitigate the risk of these tyres failing sooner than expected, particularly given the wear progression noted in 2019, where edge wear and cracking were documented. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 39,566 miles over approximately ten years represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of around 3,957 miles per annum, which is unusually conservative for a ten-year-old car. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in a garage or kept in a non-operational state for extended periods. This usage profile raises concerns about potential issues stemming from standing corrosion, particularly in the brake system, suspension, and exhaust components, which can degrade more rapidly when a vehicle is not driven regularly. Additionally, the lack of significant mileage accumulation means that consumables like brake pads, filters, and fluids may not have been replaced according to manufacturer recommendations, increasing the risk of premature wear or failure due to stagnant conditions. Given the recurring tyre wear advisories and the low-mileage usage history, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension and steering system to confirm whether the tyre wear is consistent with misalignment or if there are signs of worn control arm bushes or other components contributing to the handling issues. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front suspension, such as clunking or rattling when driving over bumps, which could indicate loose or worn suspension bushes. Inspect the front tyres closely for any signs of uneven wear patterns beyond the edge wear already noted, as this may suggest a deeper alignment or camber issue. The brake system should be checked for signs of corrosion on discs and linings, particularly on the near-side where the wear advisories were most severe, and ensure that the brake fluid is fresh and free of moisture, as standing fluid can lead to brake system failure. For the suspension, examine the lower control arms for any signs of rust or excessive play, and verify that the shock absorbers are functioning correctly by compressing them and noting any signs of oil leakage or reduced damping. The offside rear suspension advisory from 2024 suggests potential wear in the rear lower suspension arm bush, which should be inspected for signs of excessive movement or corrosion. The vehicle’s battery should be tested for health, especially given its age and low usage profile, as a failing battery can lead to electrical issues and may have been a contributing factor to the TPMS fault noted in 2019. Additionally, check the exhaust system for signs of corrosion or leaks, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate rusting in exposed components. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone regular servicing, consider verifying the service book for any missed maintenance intervals, particularly for fluid replacements such as engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, which should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations regardless of mileage.