2009 Volkswagen FOX 1.2L Petrol · SO09 FHT

The latest MOT recorded on 27 November 2025 resulted in a pass, although it was achieved just two days after a prior failure on 25 November 2025, indicating that rectification work was carried out immediately before retesting rather than the vehicle being presented in a sound, well-maintained state. The recent test history reveals a mixed and somewhat deteriorating pattern. Across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 cycles there have been failures at both initial presentations, with multiple major defects ranging from fractured coil springs, a leaking rear shock absorber, an excessively worn anti-roll bar ball joint, imbalanced rear brakes, a split CV joint boot, an exhaust gas leak with associated lambda sensor readings outside specification, and various lighting and wiper failures. While the vehicle has ultimately been returned to the road on each occasion, the breadth of component categories involved in these failures suggests that wear is progressing across the suspension, exhaust, braking, and drivetrain systems simultaneously. The recurring advisory for an oil leak, which has now appeared at every test for several years, suggests a persistent seal or gasket issue that warrants monitoring even though it has not yet been deemed excessive. The mileage of 70,377 on a 2009 vehicle equates to an annual average of roughly 4,140 miles, which is well under typical usage for a car of this age and represents very light running. While low mileage reduces wear on internal engine components, it carries its own set of risks including prolonged standing periods that can lead to brake disc corrosion and binding calipers, premature ageing of rubber and polymer components, and degradation of fluids on a calendar basis rather than a usage basis. There are also noticeable gaps between tests, with intervals of nearly two years between the 2023 and 2024 tests, which suggests the vehicle may have spent extended periods off the road. Such inactivity is a significant factor when assessing the condition of a 17-year-old vehicle, as seals, bushes, and flexible components can deteriorate rapidly without regular use. Given the recurring advisory for an oil leak across multiple consecutive tests, a prospective buyer should inspect the underside of the engine and gearbox for fresh oil residue, paying particular attention to the sump, cam chain area, and any visible seals, while also checking the oil level on the dipstick to ensure it is within the safe range and that the oil itself is not discoloured or emulsified, which would suggest a head gasket concern beyond the noted minor leak. The suspension history is particularly relevant, with fractured rear coil springs recorded on two separate occasions across 2023 and 2025, and an excessively worn front anti-roll bar ball joint plus a leaking rear shock absorber in 2024. On a test drive, listen for clonks or rattles over uneven surfaces, particularly from the rear when traversing speed humps or potholes, and check that the vehicle sits level at both ends. Uneven tyre wear, particularly inner shoulder wear, can indicate worn suspension bushes or weakened springs. The front tyres were also flagged as worn close to the legal limit and on their edges in 2023, so inspect current tread depth and look for uneven wear patterns that would point to geometry or suspension issues. Further inspection points should include a thorough check of the exhaust system, as a minor flexi leak was noted in 2024 followed by a major exhaust gas leak and lambda sensor issue in 2023, suggesting the system is deteriorating from age. Listen for blowing or ticking noises from beneath the car, particularly at startup, and inspect the flexi joint and rear silinger for corrosion. The CV joint boot that split in late 2025 should be examined to confirm a quality repair has been carried out, as a contaminated joint can lead to premature failure and expensive replacement. Given the low mileage and vehicle age, also verify the condition of all tyres for sidewall cracking and perishing, test the 12V battery under load as a battery of this age is well past its typical service life, and check the age of the coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil, as these degrade on a time basis regardless of mileage. Finally, confirm that the service book has been stamped at appropriate intervals and that the timing chain, which is a known wear item on small Volkswagen engines, has been inspected or replaced, as low annual mileage with long standing periods can paradoxically accelerate chain stretch due to cold starts and infrequent oil changes.