2009 Volkswagen Golf 2.0L Diesel · LR09 MZX

The most recent DVSA test on 14 July 2026 recorded a PASS, but it was preceded by a FAIL on the same day for the same vehicle, indicating that serious safety‑critical faults were identified and presumably remedied before the re‑test. Over the past three years the pattern has been one of deteriorating condition: a fractured off‑side rear coil spring in 2025, dangerous tyre defects in 2026, and a series of advisory items relating to worn tyres, thin brake pads and deteriorating dust‑covers. The recurrence of tyre and suspension warnings suggests that the underlying wear is progressing faster than any corrective work that has been carried out, and the overall maintenance trend is therefore worsening rather than stabilising. At 121,432 mi the car averages roughly 7,100 mi per annum, which sits comfortably within the typical usage envelope for a 2009 model. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would hint at long periods of storage, but the relatively modest annual run‑off means that many components are likely to be subject to calendar‑age degradation as much as mileage‑related wear. The mileage level is sufficient to have consumed the original tyre life, to have approached the service limits of the brake discs and pads, and to have placed the rear suspension components under several hundred thousand loading cycles. When you inspect the vehicle, give the tyre set the most urgent attention. Both rear tyres were recorded as dangerous – one with exposed ply and the other with a structural bulge – and the front tyres are already close to the legal tread limit and show edge wear. Verify the tread depth on all four wheels, look for any sidewall cracking, bulges or cuts, and replace the entire set if any tyre fails a simple 1.6 mm tread check. While on the road, listen for a thumping or clunking noise when the car passes over bumps, which would indicate a lingering issue with the rear coil spring or its mounting hardware. Examine the rear suspension for any play in the coil springs, bushings or anti‑roll bar links, and ask the seller to show evidence that the fractured off‑side spring has been correctly fitted and secured. The brake system also warrants close scrutiny. Front pads were flagged as thin in 2020 and rear inner pads were noted as wearing thin in 2026; the discs have been described as pitted but not yet structurally compromised. Expect reduced braking efficiency and possible pedal pulsation if the discs are nearing the end of their service life, and be prepared to replace pads and possibly discs on both axles. Check the condition of the registration plate mounts, especially the front plate which has been repeatedly described as deteriorated – a cracked or loose plate can be a safety and legal issue. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, inspect the 12 V battery for sulphation, verify that all fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid) have been refreshed within the recommended intervals, and look for any signs of corrosion on the chassis or under‑body that could indicate prolonged standing. A thorough test‑drive that includes braking, cornering and a short ride over a speed bump will reveal most of the remaining mechanical concerns before you commit to purchase.