2021 Volkswagen Golf Style TSI 1.5L Petrol · SW03 NPW

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 14 May 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded, representing a clean test outcome following a period of tyre-related concerns. The earlier history shows a failed test on 29 April 2024 due to a dangerous offside front tyre with tread depth below the statutory 1.6mm minimum, alongside an advisory for the nearside front tyre being similarly close to the legal limit. At the subsequent test on the same date, the vehicle passed, and an advisory was noted for the nearside front tyre. A further advisory was raised on 23 April 2025 regarding the offside rear tyre wearing close to the legal limit and showing edge wear. The complete absence of advisories on the 2026 test suggests that the tyre issues have been addressed, and the maintenance trend appears stable and improving heading into the current ownership period, though the earlier pattern warrants a careful inspection of the current rubber. With approximately 47,454 miles recorded over five years, the vehicle is averaging around 9,500 miles annually, which sits squarely within the typical usage band for a car of this age and class. This moderate accumulation implies even wear across major mechanical assemblies, and there is no evidence of prolonged standing or of unusually high mileage that would accelerate fatigue of major drivetrain components such as the clutch, turbocharger, or dual-clutch transmission mechatronics. The TSI petrol unit in this generation of Golf is a well-regarded unit but does demand adherence to manufacturer servicing schedules, particularly for the timing chain and turbocharger oil supply, so verifying a complete and stamped service history is a priority. There are no unusual mileage jumps or gaps in the MOT record that would suggest clock irregularities or extended periods off road. Given the recurring tyre advisories in the 2024 and 2025 tests, a prospective buyer should carry out a close physical inspection of all four tyres, paying particular attention to both the nearside and offside edges for uneven wear patterns that may point to misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or deteriorated coil springs. Edge wear on a front axle can also indicate worn lower wishbone bushes, top mounts, or anti-roll bar links, so a test drive should include driving over uneven surfaces and speed bumps while listening for clonks, knocks, or rattles from the front suspension. Brake feel should also be evaluated, as uneven tyre wear frequently accompanies binding calipers or warped brake discs. Pulsation through the steering wheel under braking or a tendency for the vehicle to pull to one side under deceleration would warrant further investigation of the braking system and suspension geometry. In addition to the tyre-related concerns, a five-year-old vehicle with average mileage warrants standard age-appropriate checks regardless of the clean MOT record. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking strength and state of charge, as batteries of this age are often nearing the end of their service life even when the vehicle starts reliably. Brake discs, particularly those visible through the wheel spokes, should be examined for corrosion pitting or lipping from standing exposure or wear, and the handbrake operation should be confirmed as firm and effective. Fluid conditions are calendar-sensitive rather than mileage-sensitive on this age of vehicle, so verifying the age and condition of the coolant, brake fluid, and DSG or manual gearbox oil where applicable is essential, along with checking for any signs of fluid leaks beneath the engine bay or around the turbocharger oil feed lines. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for corrosion at the mounting points and joints, as this remains a common failure item on vehicles reaching the five-year threshold.