2002 Volkswagen Bora 2.0L Petrol · GD51 AXJ

The 2002 Volkswagen Bora passed its most recent MOT on 8 June 2023 at 98,024 miles, yet the record reveals a deteriorating maintenance trajectory. A failure on the same day at 98,023 miles exposed a front brake disc that was seriously weakened, rear brakes that were binding, and rear brake pads worn thin, indicating unresolved mechanical risk. The subsequent pass involved minor defects such as a damaged seat‑belt buckle, an oil leak and headlamp lens imperfections, but the serious brake findings were not carried forward, suggesting the vehicle may have been retested after remedial work. At 24 years old the Bora has accumulated roughly 4,000 miles per year, a figure that is low for its age but shows a clear upward trend after 2017, rising from 54,653 miles in 2017 to 98,024 miles in 2023. Periods of minimal use are evident between 2015 and 2017, where mileage increased only modestly, while the steepest gains occurred between 2019 and 2023, indicating increased usage and likely greater wear on consumables. A prospective buyer should therefore prioritize a thorough brake inspection, measuring disc thickness and checking for pitting or severe wear, and test for rear‑brake binding or seized calipers. Inspect the front and rear Macpherson strut bushes and track‑rod end dust covers for excessive play or deterioration, and verify that the rear coil spring is present. Examine tyre tread depth and edge wear, confirm that oil and coolant leaks are minor and not excessive, test the seat‑belt buckle for secure fastening, and check headlamp aim and lens condition for defects that could impair visibility.