2009 Volkswagen Golf 1.9L Diesel · HV09 OTZ

A rear‑suspension failure dominates the vehicle’s recent MOT history, with a fractured near‑side rear coil spring recorded as a major defect in the March 2025 test; a missing rear wheel fixing was also flagged as a failure in February 2022. Both issues have since been cleared, as evidenced by the April 2026 MOT which passed without any recorded defects, suggesting that the necessary repairs were carried out. Apart from those isolated failures, the only recurring notes are non‑mechanical advisories about child‑seat positioning and a one‑off advisory for light oil misting on the front shock absorbers in 2023, indicating no persistent systemic faults beyond the suspension items. At 89,063 miles over 17 years the vehicle averages roughly 5,200 miles per annum, a mileage level that is low for its age. Such limited use reduces cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain components, yet age‑related degradation of rubber seals, bushings and corrosion‑prone areas can still be present, particularly if the car has experienced prolonged idle periods. The MOT record shows no gaps in annual testing, implying the vehicle has been kept on the road consistently rather than stored for extended intervals, which mitigates the risk of severe rust accumulation but does not eliminate it. Prospective buyers should give the rear suspension a thorough examination. Verify that the repaired coil spring and associated mounting points are secure, listen for any clunking or knocking over bumps, and feel for uneven rear ride height or excessive body roll, which could indicate lingering issues with the rear shock absorbers or worn bushings. Inspect the wheel hub and lug nuts on the near‑side rear wheel for correct torque and any play that might hint at an incomplete repair of the previously missing fixing. For the front, examine the shock absorbers for fresh oil traces around the seals and test for reduced damping by noting any excessive dive under braking or a squatting sensation when accelerating. While the MOT history shows no brake or lighting failures, a standard road‑worthiness check should still include a visual inspection of brake discs and pads for uneven wear, a functional test of the handbrake, and a review of tyre tread depth and sidewall condition. Given the vehicle’s age, a careful look at the chassis and subframe for any signs of corrosion, especially around suspension mounting points, is prudent. Finally, ensure that all child‑seat restraints can be fully inspected now that the seats are removed, confirming that the adult seatbelts operate correctly and without obstruction.