2001 Volkswagen Golf 1.8L Petrol · ML51 AON
2001 Volkswagen Golf (1.8L, petrol). First registered 02/10/2001. Recorded mileage 151,085 miles. MOT valid until 16/12/2026. Taxed until 01/09/2026.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Manchester & Merseyside
- MOT Status
- Valid until 16/12/2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/09/2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- 151,085 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 2001
- Engine
- 1781cc
ML51 AON Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 17/12/2025
- 151,085 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 3 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (12 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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ML51 AON Mileage History
- 14/12/2023136,990 mi
- 12/12/2024143,656 mi+6,666 mi
- 13/12/2024143,656 mi
- 17/12/2025151,085 mi+7,429 mi
- 17/12/2025151,085 mi
Average of roughly 7,012 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
ML51 AON MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 Volkswagen Golf (ML51 AON) between December 2023 and December 2025.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 17 December 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (12 issues), Suspension (6 issues), Brakes (4 issues), Windscreen (2 issues), Steering (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 24 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Front Windscreen wiper does not clear the windscreen effectively (3.4 (b) (ii))”; “Offside Front Windscreen wiper does not clear the windscreen effectively (3.4 (b) (ii))”; “Nearside Front Tyre has ply or cords exposed (5.2.3 (d) (ii))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution or avoid unless looking for a very cheap project car. This Golf shows a consistent history of deferred maintenance and recurring safety failures that suggest a lack of proactive care.
When inspecting this vehicle, focus heavily on the underside and suspension. The MOT history shows recurring issues with suspension top mounts, wishbone bushes, and tie rods; check if these have actually been replaced or just patched up. Given the history of 'oil leaks' dating back to 2023, a professional inspection is vital to determine the source and ensure it isn't a major engine gasket or seal surprise.
Check the service history meticulously for oil changes. A car that has been flagged for oil leaks for years may have suffered from poor lubrication, which leads to premature engine wear. Negotiate significantly based on the recent 'Dangerous' failure for exposed tyre cords and the recurring failures of wipers and lights, as these suggest the previous owner was not investing in basic safety maintenance until the MOT deadline.
The 1.8L petrol engine is relatively simple but will offer modest fuel economy around 30-35 mpg depending on driving. As a 2001 vehicle, it likely falls into a lower road tax band, but insurance may vary based on location.
Maintenance costs will be higher than average due to the age of the vehicle and the documented need for frequent rubber component and brake work. Estimate annual running costs including fuel, tax, and basic servicing at £1,200-£1,500.
Inspect all four tyres in detail. The most recent 2025 failure was for exposed cords on the nearside front tyre, a serious safety risk; check the remaining tyres for perishing or cracking, which has been noted in multiple advisories over the last three years.
Examine the braking system and suspension thoroughly. The history shows repeated issues with parking brake efficiency, thin brake pads, and deteriorating brake hoses. Look for 'play' in the steering and check the condition of the front suspension top mounts and CV boots, as these have been recurring points of failure in this vehicle's life.
This 2001 Volkswagen Golf has covered over 151,000 miles, which is significantly above the average for its age. While it remains operational, the MOT history reveals a pattern of major failures related to safety items, including brakes, suspension components, and tyre safety. The vehicle has suffered from persistent oil leaks and deteriorating rubber parts indicating that repairs are often only addressed when necessary to pass a test.
The Mk4 Golf is generally considered robust, but the 1.8 petrol engines of this era are prone to oil leaks and cooling issues if neglected.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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