2012 Volkswagen Golf 1.6L Diesel · NL12 NTO

A clear pattern emerges of progressive wear on the rear braking system and persistent under‑body corrosion, punctuated by a recent failure of the off‑side front windscreen wiper to clear the glass effectively. The 2026 MOT recorded both a pass with advisories on corrosion and rear brake pads/discs and a simultaneous failure on the wiper, indicating that while the vehicle remains road‑legal, it is already requiring remedial work on key safety items. At 110,140 mi over fourteen years the average annual mileage sits just under 8,000 mi, which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age and suggests no periods of extreme high‑speed running or prolonged storage. The MOT history shows a full yearly testing record with no significant gaps, meaning the documented wear trends are likely representative of the actual condition rather than hidden by undocumented mileage spikes. The rear brake pads are consistently flagged as thin and the rear discs as pitted, so a buyer should expect reduced braking efficiency and possible pedal pulsation. During a test drive listen for squeal or grinding from the rear wheels and feel for any softening of the pedal under load; replacement of the rear pads and likely resurfacing or replacement of the discs will be imminent. The under‑body corrosion advisories each year point to rust developing on the chassis or rear sub‑frame; visual inspection for flaking paint, bubbling metal, or holes is essential, and any structural rust should be assessed for repair before committing to the purchase. Front shock absorbers have shown light oil misting on successive tests, a symptom of seal wear that can lead to reduced damping and uneven ride; feel for excessive bounce or leaking fluid around the shock bodies. The 2022 MOT highlighted excessively worn anti‑roll bar linkage ball joints on both front and rear sides – a condition that typically produces clunking noises over bumps, a loose steering feel, and uneven tyre wear; these joints should be inspected for play and, if necessary, replaced. Finally, the tyre failures recorded in 2023 (cut tyre, tread below legal limit and sidewall damage) mean the current tyre set is likely compromised and will need replacement. The front windscreen wiper’s inability to clear the glass suggests a faulty blade or motor, so verify that the wiper clears the screen cleanly without streaking. In summary, budgeting for rear brake refurbishment, possible suspension linkage or shock work, corrosion remediation, a full tyre set and a functional wiper system is prudent; a thorough pre‑purchase inspection focused on these areas will reveal whether the vehicle’s remaining life justifies the investment.