2016 Volkswagen Golf 1.4L Hybrid electric (clean) · LS02 NDS

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 June 2026, was passed but recorded an advisory for an off‑side front nail in the tyre. Over the preceding three years the vehicle has moved from a failure in December 2023 – where an excessively worn off‑side front suspension arm bush was deemed a major defect – to a clean pass in 2025 and a largely advisory‑only pass in 2026. This progression indicates that the critical suspension issue has been remedied and the overall maintenance trend is now stabilising, although the recurring brake‑disc and tyre advisories suggest that routine wear items are beginning to approach the end of their service life. At ten years old the Golf has only 39 016 miles on the clock, averaging roughly 3 900 miles per annum. Such low utilisation is well below the typical UK average and points to periods of limited use or extended storage. While low mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain components, it also raises the likelihood of age‑related deterioration such as tyre perishing, battery sulphation, and corrosion of suspension bushings that have not been exercised regularly. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage, but the modest annual run‑off means that many wear items will be governed more by calendar age than by distance covered. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the off‑side front suspension arm bush that was previously flagged as excessively worn. On a test drive listen for any clunk or thump when negotiating bumps or applying steering input, and check for play by rocking the front wheel at the 12 o’clock position. The rear off‑side brake disc, noted as pitted and scored, should be measured for remaining thickness; a disc approaching the minimum legal limit will require replacement soon to avoid reduced braking efficiency or vibration. The near‑side front tyre shows inner‑sidewall damage and a nail was reported on the off‑side front tyre, so both tyres must be inspected for cuts, bulges, tread depth and the DOT manufacture date; tyres older than six years should be considered for renewal regardless of tread depth. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of all rubber components is advisable. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking or perishing, especially where the tyre has been stationary for long periods. Check the 12 V battery for voltage under load and inspect the terminals for corrosion; a battery older than four years may be nearing the end of its service life. Verify that brake fluid, coolant and gearbox oil have been changed within their recommended intervals – typically every two years for brake fluid – as fluids degrade with time even when the car is not driven. Finally, look for any signs of rust on the wheel arches, sills and under‑carriage, and confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and any recommended time‑based component replacements. These checks will help ensure that the low‑mileage Golf remains mechanically sound and road‑worthy.