2009 Volkswagen Golf 1.6L Diesel · KS59 NFM

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following a pass on November 24, 2025, but the mechanical history reveals a worsening trend in suspension components. While the car passed its most recent test, it failed earlier that same day due to an illegal offside front tyre and a deteriorated ball joint dust cover on the front suspension. The persistent presence of deteriorated nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust covers dating back to December 2022 indicates that specific components are being addressed only upon failure rather than through preventative maintenance. At 121,110 miles, the Golf has averaged approximately 7,124 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a 17-year-old vehicle. The data shows consistent use, with roughly 16,000 miles covered between November 2023 and November 2024, and another 7,475 miles between late 2024 and late 2025. This regular mileage suggests the car has not sat for long periods, though the wear on rubber bushes and suspension joints is noted throughout the record. A buyer must scrutinise the front suspension assembly, as the tester recently flagged worn suspension arm bushes and deteriorated ball joint dust covers. The corrosion on both rear suspension arms noted in the 2025 test is not yet deemed seriously weakened but requires a close physical inspection to ensure structural integrity does not degrade. Additionally, the offside rear anti-roll bar linkage has shown slight play since at least November 2024, suggesting this component is nearing the end of its functional life. Alignment issues likely caused the inner wear on the offside rear tyre noted in 2025, indicating potential geometry faults or worn hub bearings. The light misting on the offside rear shock absorbers has been a recurring advisory since 2022, which should be checked for active leaks that could indicate imminent failure. Given the age of the vehicle and the recurring nature of rubber-related faults, a thorough check of all bushings and joints is essential prior to any purchase.