2017 Volkswagen Golf 1.5L Petrol · J100 AAK

A pattern of recurring advisories on the front suspension has emerged across the most recent two MOT tests, and this is the defining mechanical consideration when evaluating this 2017 Volkswagen Golf. The 2026-08-03 test returned a pass but flagged that both the nearside and offside front lower suspension arm pins or bushes are worn, though not yet to a point of excessive movement, with the tester noting the rear of the arm remains acceptable for the time being. The identical advisories were recorded on both front lower arms at the 2025-07-31 test, indicating that this wear has been present for at least twelve months without progressing to a failure. Earlier test records show a different advisory theme, with both rear tyres flagged for slight perishing or cracking in 2022, 2023, and 2024 before this concern disappeared from the most recent two tests. Across five recorded tests the vehicle has not failed, but the persistence of the front suspension wear across consecutive annual examinations is a clear indicator that deterioration is ongoing and will likely require attention within the next inspection cycle or two. With 29,589 miles accumulated over approximately nine years, the vehicle has covered around 3,288 miles annually, which sits well below the typical mileage for a car of this age. The MOT history begins in 2022, meaning the earliest years of the vehicle's life are not represented in the testing record, and the relatively low annual mileage recorded since suggests the car has either seen predominantly light use or has experienced extended periods off the road. From a mechanical standpoint, low annual mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain and engine components but increases the likelihood of issues stemming from standing, such as corrosion on underbody components, dried brake flexes, and perishing of rubber elements including tyres and suspension bushes. The fact that the rear tyres were flagged for perishing across three consecutive tests is consistent with a vehicle that has spent considerable time stationary, allowing the rubber compounds to degrade through age rather than wear. Given the recurring front lower suspension arm advisories, a prospective buyer should inspect these components closely, ideally with the vehicle on a ramp so that the full underside can be examined. The advisories note that covers obscured a full view of the underside at both 2025 and 2026 tests, so a thorough physical check of the front subframe, anti-roll bar drop links, and all visible bushings is advisable. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to any knocking or clonking from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or potholes, vague or wandering steering response that could indicate worn lower arm joints, and uneven orpremature tyre wear which would suggest the geometry is already being affected. The lower arm pin and bush wear should be evaluated for any measurable play by hand pressure with the wheels raised, as a borderline advisory can quickly progress to a failure once play exceeds the permitted tolerance. The tyre perishing advisories on the rear axle, although not present in the most recent two tests, are worth investigating because perished sidewalls are a safety-critical failure item at MOT regardless of tread depth. Inspect the rear tyres physically for sidewall cracking, paying particular attention to the areas between the tread grooves and the sidewall shoulder. Beyond the recorded advisories, a buyer should also check for any brake judder or vibration through the pedal under firm stopping, as low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from corrosion on brake disc surfaces which can produce pedal pulse and reduced efficiency. Verify that the handbrake holds firmly on an incline, as rear brake mechanisms can seize when infrequently used, and confirm that there are no warning lights illuminated on the dashboard. Finally, ensure that a current and documented service history is available, as the low annual mileage combined with nine years of age means that age-related service items such as coolant, brake fluid, and drive belt replacement should be confirmed rather than assumed.