2012 Volkswagen Golf 1.6L Diesel · FT12 PKU

A persistent weak point is the off‑side front upper anti‑roll bar linkage dust cover, recorded as severely deteriorated in the 2024 and 2025 MOTs and still noted as a minor defect when the car passed in May 2026. Apart from that recurring advisory, the history shows only routine wear items – brake disc surface scoring and tyre edge wear – and a single non‑safety failure for the windscreen wiper in 2024. The vehicle has consistently cleared MOT since that failure, indicating no new safety‑critical faults have emerged, but the repeated dust‑cover issue signals a component that has not been rectified and may affect suspension integrity if left unchecked. With 44,797 mi logged over 14 years the average annual mileage is roughly 3,200 mi, well below the typical UK usage pattern. The low accumulation suggests the car has spent considerable time idle or was used only for short journeys, which can be gentle on high‑wear items such as brakes and tyres but may encourage corrosion on exposed metal parts and rubber ageing. There are no large gaps between tests, so the mileage record appears reliable; however, the modest mileage does not guarantee the condition of components that are subject to environmental exposure rather than wear. Prospective buyers should give the off‑side front anti‑roll bar linkage a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Look for any play in the ball‑joint, cracked or missing dust‑cover material, and listen for clunking noises when the car is driven over bumps or during hard cornering. If the linkage feels loose or the cover is corroded, replacement of the dust cover and possibly the ball‑joint bushings will be required to maintain chassis stability. While the car passed the MOT, the advisory indicates the issue has persisted for several years, so a qualified suspension check is advisable before committing. The brake disc advisories for both front and rear units – noted as pitted or scored but not yet weakened – merit measurement of disc thickness and a road test for pedal feel. Look for any pulsation or vibration through the brake pedal, especially under firm braking, and listen for squeal or grinding that could indicate excessive surface wear. Tyre advisories from 2020 and 2021 about edge wear and cracking mean the current tread depth should be measured and sidewalls inspected for dry rot; any tyre approaching the legal limit or showing cracking should be replaced promptly. Finally, verify that the windscreen wipers now clear the glass effectively, as the 2024 failure suggests the mechanism may have been marginal. Addressing these specific items will give a clear picture of the car’s remaining service life and any imminent maintenance costs.