2002 Volkswagen Golf 1.6L Petrol · RO52 YMM

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a worsening pattern regarding minor suspension and rubber components. While the most recent test in April 2026 at 146,794 miles passed, the tester identified a minor exhaust leak, failing front tyres, and a severely deteriorated nearside front suspension arm ball joint dust cover. This represents a regression from the clean record in April 2025, indicating that the current owner is only addressing faults as they approach MOT failure thresholds rather than performing proactive preventative maintenance. At 24 years old, the recorded mileage of 146,794 reflects an annual average of approximately 6,116 miles, which is consistent with low-use older vehicles. The data shows a consistent usage pattern, with roughly 3,000 miles covered between the 2025 and 2026 tests, and another 3,400 miles between 2024 and 2025. This steady progression suggests the vehicle is not subjected to extreme mechanical stress, though the age of the components remains the primary factor in degradation. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension and steering assembly, as the record shows recurring issues with anti-roll bar bushes, linkages, and steering rack gaiters dating back to 2022. The deterioration of the ball joint dust cover in 2026 is a critical warning sign that could lead to steering joint failure if not replaced immediately. Additionally, the history of pitted rear brake discs in both 2022 and 2023, combined with corroded rear coil springs from 2023, suggests the lower chassis components are prone to significant age-related corrosion and require close monitoring for structural integrity.