2010 Volkswagen FOX 1.2L Petrol · SP10 LFS

A persistent pattern of braking system instability and suspension wear defines the mechanical history of this vehicle, with recurring failures concentrated on the nearside. The record shows multiple failures involving binding rear brakes, damaged brake pipes, and deteriorated ABS wiring, alongside a more recent failure for a leaking rear shock absorber. While the vehicle achieved a pass on 18 August 2023, this followed a failure just one day prior and left a remaining advisory regarding play in the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint. The recorded mileage of 100,933 miles over sixteen years represents a typical usage profile of approximately 6,308 miles per annum. This steady accumulation suggests the vehicle has avoided prolonged periods of stagnation, but it has reached a mileage threshold where wear on drivetrain consumables, suspension bushings, and braking components is expected. The frequency of recent MOT failures suggests that these wear-and-tear items are now requiring more frequent intervention to maintain roadworthiness. Particular attention must be paid to the braking system during a physical inspection and test drive. Given the history of binding rear brakes and damaged hydraulic lines, the buyer should check for any uneven braking force or a spongy pedal feel. During the drive, feel for any pulling to one side under braking and check the temperature of the wheel hubs after a short journey to ensure no calipers are remaining seized. The suspension and steering should be scrutinized for instability, specifically regarding the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage which was flagged as having play in the latest test. Listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces or during low-speed maneuvers. Additionally, the recurring advisories for worn offside front tyres suggest a potential tracking or alignment issue that should be verified by inspecting the current tread wear patterns across the width of the tyre.