1998 Volkswagen Golf 1.6L Petrol · S558 APG
1998 Volkswagen Golf (1.6L, petrol). First registered 23 Oct 1998. Recorded mileage 141,183 miles. MOT expired on 04 Nov 2024.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 04 Nov 2024
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 141,183 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
S558 APG Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT failed on 01/11/2024
- 141,183 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 16 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (11 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
S558 APG MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Volkswagen Golf (S558 APG) between October 2022 and November 2024.
The record contains 2 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 01 November 2024 was a fail; the vehicle has not passed its last recorded MOT.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (11 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (8 issues), Suspension (6 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 17 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: “Offside Rear Outer Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural ”; “Nearside Rear Outer Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural”; “Exhaust emits excessive dense blue smoke during acceleration (8.2.1.2 (g))”.
S558 APG Mileage History
- 21/10/2022136,375 mi
- 28/10/2022136,378 mi+3 mi
- 25/10/2023139,110 mi+2,732 mi
- 01/11/2024141,183 mi+2,073 mi
Average of roughly 2,367 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below 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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Exercise extreme caution and avoid this vehicle unless you are a specialist mechanic prepared for significant structural and engine work. The most recent MOT failure reveals critical structural corrosion and serious engine emission issues that suggest high repair costs.
If you are considering this Golf, your first priority must be a professional inspection of the chassis and sills. The November 2024 MOT recorded major failures for excessive corrosion on both the nearside and offside rear suspension component mountings and side sills; this is a fundamental structural issue that can be very expensive to rectify.
Secondly, the engine is currently failing emissions tests significantly, emitting excessive blue smoke and failing Lambda and CO/HC tests. This suggests internal engine wear, such as worn piston rings or valve issues, rather than a simple sensor fix. Negotiate heavily based on these required repairs, or ideally, walk away. Ensure you check the service history to see if the oil leaks mentioned in the MOT have been addressed, and verify if the brake pipe corrosion has been treated.
As a 1.6L petrol engine from the late 90s, fuel economy will be modest compared to modern standards, likely averaging around 30-35 mpg. Tax and insurance for a 1998 model are generally low, placing it in a more affordable bracket for older vehicles.
However, maintenance costs for this specific car are likely to be high due to the age-related wear and the specific issues identified. You should budget significantly for structural welding, brake system overhauls, and potential engine work. An estimated annual running cost, including fuel, tax, insurance, and anticipated maintenance, would be roughly £1,200-£1,500, assuming the major issues are addressed.
The most critical area to inspect is the underside of the car, specifically the rear suspension mounting areas and the side sills. The MOT history explicitly mentions 'excessively corroded' areas that reduce structural strength. Use a screwdriver or a small hammer to tap the sills and suspension mounts to check for flakes of rust or soft metal.
Next, perform a thorough engine inspection. The vehicle has a history of emitting 'excessive dense blue smoke' and failing hydrocarbon/carbon monoxide tests. Check the oil level and look for signs of heavy sludge or excessive oil consumption. Also, inspect the brake lines; the MOT has previously flagged corroded rear brake pipes, which can lead to sudden brake failure if not replaced.
This 1998 red Volkswagen Golf 1.6L petrol has covered 141,183 miles, which is consistent with its age but comes with a concerning mechanical and structural history. While it has been maintained over the years, the most recent MOT in November 2024 highlights major failures regarding excessive corrosion on the side sills and suspension mountings, alongside severe exhaust emission failures. The vehicle shows a pattern of recurring issues with brakes, suspension, and emissions that indicate a need for intensive maintenance.
While the Mk4 Golf is generally regarded as a robust platform, individual examples like this one can suffer from significant age-related corrosion and engine wear if not meticulously maintained.
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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